Namhla Bhadela’s Journey to International Acclaim Takes a Bold Turn with Tiny Desk Contest Entry
Diana Kinyanjui 
South African soul artist Namhla Bhadela is making an ambitious move toward international recognition with her submission for the Tiny Desk Contest 2025, a globally respected platform that has introduced some of the most unique and powerful voices in music to a wider audience.
Following in the footsteps of South African legend Thandiswa Mazwai, who recently delivered a historic Tiny Desk performance, Namhla is stepping into the spotlight with a reimagined version of her song Vuma, a performance she hopes will propel her career onto the global stage.
“Watching sis Thandiswa Mazwai get given the privilege of performing her own Tiny Desk inspired me to try,”
says Namhla.
“It’s an incredible platform for your music to be noticed and celebrated. It means a bigger audience and more people to hopefully impact with the music.”
For her submission, Namhla chose Vuma, a song that holds deep personal significance. Known for its dance-infused production on her album, she decided to strip it down into an intimate, slow-burning R&B rendition for Tiny Desk, revealing a new layer of emotional vulnerability.
“I chose Vuma because Valentine’s Day was approaching, and I truly just love that song,”
Namhla shares.
“It’s such a powerful and vulnerable love song—it makes my heart melt. I also wanted to showcase artistic expression by changing it up and delivering it in a slower RnB style than the dance version. I think it truly captures its essence.”
With her band delivering a performance filled with nuance and soul, Namhla’s Tiny Desk submission is more than just an entry into a contest—it is a declaration of her artistic evolution. Her ability to reinterpret and transform her own music speaks to her versatility and commitment to continuous reinvention.
For Namhla, this contest is about more than just a performance—it is about expanding her reach and solidifying her place in the international music scene.
“Fortune favors the brave,”
she says.
“In order for us to reach international audiences, we have to be on international platforms. You have to put your best foot forward and hope for the best.”
The Tiny Desk Contest, hosted by NPR Music, has become a launch pad for independent and emerging artists worldwide, making it an ideal opportunity for Namhla to introduce her music to a new and diverse audience.
Since releasing her Tiny Desk submission, the response from fans has been overwhelmingly positive, with listeners praising her ability to bring a fresh, soulful energy to the track.
“People love this version of Vuma, and it has been doing really well organically,”
Namhla says.
“The team and I are going to do more to reach more ears.”
Some of the reactions from fans include:
“Beautiful song and totally enjoyed it. Didn’t want it to end.”
“What a performance. Absolutely love Vuma and how you and the band have relayed this love story through song. Can’t wait to see you perform on a big, international stage.”
While the Tiny Desk Contest remains highly competitive, Namhla believes in the power of visibility and fan engagement to help amplify her chances. She encourages fans to support her journey by watching, liking, and sharing her submission.
“I just want people to experience this song in a way that feels personal and universal at the same time,”
says Namhla.
“Love is something we all deserve, and that’s what Vuma is about—being open to that kind of love, allowing it to consume you, and trusting that it’s real.”
Beyond Tiny Desk, Namhla is already mapping out the next phase of her career. With a growing international fan base and a dedication to pushing creative boundaries, she is exploring new collaborations, new sounds, and new opportunities that will further cement her reputation as one of South Africa’s most promising artists.
“A girl is always working,”
she says.
“I’m looking at collaborating with other artists, working on new projects, and exploring new sounds and genres. Performance-wise, I want to curate spaces for the band and I to perform. It’s all a matter of time, but it’s in the works and being developed.”
With a clear vision, undeniable talent, and a steadfast commitment to her craft, Namhla Bhadela is proving that her music belongs on the world stage. Whether through Tiny Desk or future international collaborations, this moment marks a significant step in what promises to be an extraordinary career.
Watch Namhla Bhadela’s Tiny Desk submission here: https://youtu.be/jntWfOpRf2w?si=Dm38tlZh90xgEz3c
Dj Chilu 
SALM TEAM 