Babes Wodumo Urges New Artists to Preserve Gqom’s Identity

South African vocalist Babes Wodumo has issued a direct appeal to emerging musicians within the gqom scene, urging them to safeguard the genre’s distinct character and depth before its creative essence is diluted.

Addressing the creative direction of the sound, Wodumo challenged rising talent to produce tracks that carry genuine substance and meaning. The singer raised concerns that without intentional artistry, the foundational identity that established gqom as a prominent cultural force risks being lost to superficial trends.

Mentorship and Genre Preservation

Beyond calling for higher artistic standards, Wodumo extended an offer of mentorship to developing acts. She signaled her willingness to advise and support newcomers who want to learn from her practical experience in navigating the recording business and developing their craft.

The call for structured guidance comes at a crucial moment for African regional movements. As localized genres expand and face commercial pressures, maintaining creative authenticity while adapting to mainstream demands remains a significant challenge for new practitioners across the continent.

For the broader African music industry, mentorship initiatives from established pioneers can serve as an essential bridge between generations. By encouraging younger acts to prioritize lyrical and conceptual depth, such efforts help protect the long-term catalog value and cultural heritage of homegrown musical styles.

Source: Briefly SA Entertainment