As Women’s Month commences in Cape Town, it presents an excellent opportunity to shine a light on the diverse and talented women musicians who call the city home. These artists create music that resonates beyond their own communities, surpassing boundaries and expanding musical horizons. By listening to their creations, we recognize the profound influence women have had on music and the significance of embracing a variety of voices. Here, we introduce five exceptional Cape Town musicians deserving of your attention.
Dope Saint Jude
Catherine Saint Jude Pretorius, known as Dope Saint Jude, is a multi-talented artist who excels as a rapper, singer, songwriter, and music producer. Growing up in Elsies River, she discovered her passion for music at the age of 12. Dope Saint Jude’s unique brand of hip hop, marked by themes of feminist inclusivity and empowerment, adds a fresh and innovative queer dimension to the genre. With a background as a drag king, she has since evolved into a compelling solo artist, characterized by robust collaborations, self-produced EPs, and memorable performances.
Paxton Fielies
Paxton Fielies, known simply as Paxton, is a skilled singer and songwriter from Bishop Lavis, Cape Town. Her journey began by joining a church children’s choir, later gaining attention for her social media covers of popular songs. In 2017, Paxton won the 13th season of Idols South Africa, becoming the youngest South African woman to hold the title. Combining Afro-Pop with other influences, her album This Is Me has been widely celebrated for its genre-spanning appeal.
Melanie Scholtz
Melanie Scholtz, hailing from a musical family in Cape Town, is an accomplished jazz singer, composer, dancer, and visual artist. Her artistic journey began at a young age, with classical piano lessons and formal vocal training with soprano May Abrahams. Scholtz has since performed at prestigious events and released multiple albums, including her collaboration with poet James Mathews, Freedom’s Child. Her work has spanned continents, with highlights including collaborations with the Jazz at Lincoln Centre Orchestra in New York.
Micaela Kleinsmith
Country singer Micaela Kleinsmith has captivated audiences with her powerful voice and compelling story. Using music to overcome childhood challenges, she began writing her own songs at just 14 years old. In 2016, she showcased her talent on Idols South Africa, and in 2023, she won the inaugural season of Apple TV+’s reality competition series, My Kind of Country. Kleinsmith’s personal identity as a queer individual is an essential part of her journey as she stands as an inspirational and relatable figure within the music world.
3 Tons of Fun
3 Tons of Fun is a high-energy all-female ensemble comprising Sthe Mfuphi, Bulelwa Sakayi, and Michelle Thomas, embodying joy, positivity, and celebration. Formed a decade ago, this trio recognized the need for women to showcase their sensuality, remarkable vocals, and magnetic presence. Hailing from Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal, the ensemble has become a beloved part of the city’s music scene, enthralling audiences with a dynamic mix of disco classics, pop hits, and dance beats at numerous esteemed events.
Cape Town’s vibrant and talented women musicians offer a rich tapestry of styles, voices, and stories that reflect the city’s diverse cultural landscape. By celebrating and embracing their unique contributions, we not only broaden our musical horizons, but also enrich our understanding of the myriad ways in which women shape the world of music.
