About

Moonchild Sanelly

"...on track for global adulation" The Guardian

Trailblazing South African musician Moonchild Sanelly has always determinedly done things her own way. An artistic visionary, her drive to succeed is fuelled by an innate creativity, unique self-expression and extraordinary confidence, all underpinned by personal pain, trauma and a deep conviction and commitment to standing up for what she believes in.

Growing up in Port Elizabeth, Moonchild’s (born Sanelisiwe Twisha) music-filled childhood was one of creative exploration: whether it was self-choreographing dance routines to the Spice Girls, teaching herself to play the piano, singing at church with her family or writing poetry, artistic expression was always encouraged.

A move to Durban in 2005 to study fashion saw Sanelly become immersed in the local music scene, and later in Johannesburg, she would write for reggae bands and freestyle against other rappers, often overcoming misogynistic attitudes in the process.

She soon established her own signature sound, self-described as ‘future-ghetto-funk’ veers between Amapiano, Gqom (South African sub-genres of house), grime, pop, house and R&B. With electrifying live shows and self-designed flamboyant outfits, she became a superstar on her home turf and soon found a global audience. She has performed around the world at festivals including SXSW, Primavera and Glastonbury and collaborated with international superstars, including Self Esteem, Wizkid, Beyonce and Gorillaz.

Signed to Transgressive records, her second album Phases (2022) is a highly collaborative record, with production and guest features from Sad Night Dynamite (on the hit track 'Demon') and Ghetts (‘Strip Club’), as well as Wesley Joseph, Xavier Thomas (Débruit), TOKiMONSTA, HOLLY and Aramboa.

Moonchild has released three singles: Scrambled Eggs, Sweet & Savage and Big Booty - from her forthcoming new studio album, as well as tune of the summer Big Man in collaboration with Self Esteem. Moonchild’s new album will be announced later this year, marking the joyous return of this singular performer and creative visionary whose signature, self-described future-ghetto-funk sound first catapulted her onto the global scene.