Spotify’s GLOW Honours Brenda Fassie

Spotify, through its global LGBTQIA+ initiative, GLOW celebrates the indomitable spirit of the legendary Brenda Fassie, the Queen of African Pop. Known for her bold artistry, fearless individuality and cultural influence, she remains one of Africa’s most revered music icons.

At the heart of this celebration is ‘The Impact of Brenda Fassie’ – a 10-minute documentary which premiered today on Spotify’s YouTube channel, spotlighting Brenda’s influence across generations. The film features artists who have drawn inspiration from her sound and unapologetic presence – amongst them are Langa Mavuso, Zoë Modiga, Muneyi, and Nanette.

Beyond the documentary, Spotify brought Brenda’s legacy to life through a memorable event which took place on Tuesday, 04 November 2025 at Market Theatre in Newtown, Johannesburg. The event featured a series of panel discussions and an immersive exhibition showcasing rare photos, performance footage, personal memorabilia and iconic moments from her trailblazing career – the space serves as both a homage and a creative reflection, inviting fans and supporters to experience Brenda’s energy firsthand for a month from 4 November to 4 December 2025.

The event and exhibition, curated by Maria McCloy, gathered her family, friends and the people who have helped shape and understand her journey, including Chicco Twala, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Blondie Makhene, David Mabaso of her first band The Big Dudes, academic Dr Mbali Mazibuko and journalist Charl Blignaut. Together, they unpacked Brenda’s influence on music, identity and African pop culture.

‘It was an honour to be asked by Spotify Glow to curate this event and involve so many key musicians, producers, DJs, journalists,  photographers, friends and family in memorialising her, whilst also making sure the new generation learnt about Brenda Fassie too,’ said curator Maria McCloy.

She added, “She gave us so much, not only an album nearly every year from 1983 til 2004 and countless hits, she inspired black people, women and queer people with her immense talent and beautiful boldness both during apartheid and freedom. She was at the forefront of so many movements: from bubblegum to kwaito and Afro-pop. She was friendly to everyone despite her mega fame, we often saw her out and about partying and she was hilarious. Everything got a lot more boring on Joburg’s streets the day she died in 2004. I wish she was here to celebrate her 61st year on earth.”

Spotify GLOW will also light up New York City’s Times Square with an out-of-home banner dedicated to her. This visual tribute underscores her far-reaching impact not just as a South African icon but as a global cultural force whose influence continues to inspire artists worldwide.

‘Brenda Fassie was more than a performer – she was a revolution,’ said Phiona Okumu, Head of Music at Spotify Sub-Saharan Africa. ‘Through her voice and her truth, she shattered boundaries with her remarkable authenticity. With GLOW we honour her for who and what she was.’