{{Short description|South African singer, rapper and actor (born 1984)}} {{Use dmy dates|date=July 2020}} {{Infobox musical artist | name = Sjava | image = | caption = | birth_name = Jabulani Hadebe | birth_date = {{birth date and age|1983|12|2|df=y}} | birth_place = [[Bergville]], KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa | alma_mater = | occupation = {{Flatlist| * Singer * rapper * songwriter * actor }} | years_active = 2004–present | module = {{Infobox musical artist | embed = yes | genre = {{Flatlist|<!-- Genre(s) reliable sources use to classify artist/their overall music. Aim for generality and use two to four genres: [[Template:Infobox_musical_artist/doc#genre]]--> * African Trap Music (ATM)<ref>{{Cite web|last=Mhabela |first=Sabelo |year=2017|title=The 10 Best 'African Trap Music' Songs |url=https://www.okayafrica.com/african-trap-music-atm-south-africa-best-songs/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180417200637/https://www.okayafrica.com/african-trap-music-atm-south-africa-best-songs/ |archive-date=17 April 2018 |access-date=11 January 2024 |website=Okay Africa}}</ref> * [[Contemporary R&B|R&B]] * [[Hip hop music|hip hop]] * [[Afro-pop]] }} | associated_acts = {{Flatlist|<!--Do not list artists with whom Smith has merely collaboration on a song. See [[Template:Infobox_musical_artist/doc#associated_acts]]--> * [[Emtee]] * [[Big Zulu]] }} | instruments = Vocals<!-- NOTE: instrument(s) artist is primarily notable for/considered integral to artist's career per reliable sources; [[Template:Infobox_musical_artist/doc#instrument]]--> | label = {{hlist| [[Ambitiouz Entertainment]] {{small|(former)}} |[[1020 Cartel]] |African Trap Movement }} | website = {{URL|1020cartel.com}} }} }}
'''Jabulani Hadebe''' (born 2 December 1983),<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sampra.org.za/sampra-performer-members/|title=Jabulani Hadebe|website=sampra|access-date=5 December 2020|archive-date=28 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228212307/https://www.sampra.org.za/sampra-performer-members/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sjava/1016651107|title=Sjava on Apple Music|website=applemusic|access-date=4 June 2020}}</ref> known professionally as '''Sjava''', is a [[South African people|South African]] singer, rapper, and actor. He began his acting career in 2005, starring in several drama series and films including ''[[Gugu and Andile|uGugu no Andile]]'' (2009).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tvsa.co.za/shows/viewshowcast.aspx?showid=607|title=uGugu no Andile – Starring Cast|website=TVSA}}</ref> He then rose to prominence on the drama series ''Zone 14'', where he starred for three consecutive seasons, ''[[Isibaya]]'' and the second season of ''[[eHostela]]''. Sjava ventured into the music industry and signed to record label [[Ambitiouz Entertainment]]. He gained mainstream popularity after he was featured on [[Miss Pru]]'s acclaimed song "[[Ameni (song)|Ameni]]" in 2015.
Sjava's debut album, ''[[Isina Muva]]'' (2016), introduced his experimental sound which fuses [[African pop]] styles, [[hip hop music|hip hop]] and [[contemporary R&B]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/sjava-mn0003686569/biography|title=Sjava – Biography & History|website=AllMusic}}</ref> His second studio album, ''[[Umqhele (album)|Umqhele]]'', was released in 2018 to a critical acclaim. ''Umqhele'', which continues with his fusion sound, grew his African-influenced image, and consolidated to other international regions (mainly in Africa). Before ''Umqhele'', Sjava also released his debut [[Extended Play|EP]], ''Umphako'', in 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.musicinafrica.net/magazine/sjavas-umphako-ep-emotion|title=Sjava's Umphako EP is an emotion|website=Music in Africa}}</ref>
Following departure with his former label Sjava, and Ruff co-founded [[1020 Cartel]], released his extended play ''Umsebenzi'' (2020), which was certified Gold in South Africa.
His third studio album ''[[Isibuko]]'' (2023), debuted number one and certified Platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA).
==Life and career== Jabulani Hadebe was born in [[Bergville]], KwaZulu-Natal, the son of Thandi Nkabinde (his mother).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2019-01-29-watch--sjavas-mom-sang-his-song-uthando-on-stage--everyone-melted/|title=Sjava's mom sang his song Uthando on stage & everyone melted!|website=TimesLIVE}}</ref> He is of [[Zulu people|Zulu]] ancestry.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ewn.co.za/2018/06/25/south-africans-hail-sjava-for-displaying-african-pride-with-bet-awards-outift|title=South Africans hail Sjava for displaying African pride with BET Awards outift|website=EWN}}</ref> Sjava has two older siblings, Sibusiso (his brother) and Sindy (his sister).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pressreader.com/south-africa/drum/20190516/281629601706601|title=Mama's boy: Sjava and his mom's special relationship|website=DRUM – PressReader}}</ref>
Sjava started writing music at an early age. While at the age of ten, Sjava was in charge of writing original lyrics on songs for his all-boy [[isicathamiya]] group Abafana baseMpumalanga, while in primary school.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pressreader.com/south-africa/bona/20190818/281724091171516|title=MY LIFE IN WORDS|website=Bona – PressReader}}</ref> He then took composition of music a step further in high school, where he used to turn notes into songs, then teach them to his classmates.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mg.co.za/article/2019-04-05-00-isina-muva-liyabukwa|title=Isina Muva liyabukwa|website=Mail & Guardian|date=5 April 2019}}</ref>
===Music=== ====2016–2017: Beginnings and ''Isina Muva''==== Sjava's debut recording was a feature on DJ and producer Miss Pru's "Ameni".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/ameni-feat-emtee-saudi-sjava-fifi-cooper-reece-b3nchmarq/1368006405|title=Ameni (feat. Emtee, Saudi, Sjava, Fifi Cooper, A-Reece, mlindo de vocalist& B3nchMarq)|website=Apple Music}}</ref> The successful song also featured then-artists of record label [[Ambitiouz Entertainment]]; [[Emtee]], [[Fifi Cooper]], B3nchmarq, and Saudi – who is currently in the label.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://zalebs.com/whats-hot/artists-who-have-left-ambitiouz-entertainment|title=Artists who have left Ambitiouz Entertainment|website=ZAlebs}}</ref>
On 8 April 2016, he released his debut single as a solo artist, "Ekuseni".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mytvnews.co.za/sjava-drops-new-single-ekseni|website=www.mytvnews.co.za|title=Sjava Drops A New Single Ekuseni|access-date=17 September 2017}}</ref> He then released his debut album, ''Isina Muva'' on 22 July 2016.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/za/album/isina-muva/id1132539280|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170918034203/https://itunes.apple.com/za/album/isina-muva/id1132539280|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 September 2017|publisher=iTunes Store|title=Isina Muva by Sjava|access-date=17 September 2017}}</ref> Its title is derived from a [[Zulu language|Zulu]] idiom meaning "late bloomer".<ref>{{cite web|title=SPOTTED Sjava Isina Muva Album Launch|url=https://www.zkhiphani.co.za/spotted-sjava-isina-muva-album-launch/|website=Zkhiphani|date=12 September 2016|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref> ''Isina Muva'' was certified Gold by the [[Recording Industry of South Africa]] (RiSA) and Sjava celebrated by releasing a [[Special edition#Music|deluxe version]] of the album titled ''Isina Muva: Gold Deluxe''<ref>{{cite web|title='ISINA MUVA' BY SJAVA GOES GOLD|url=http://hiphophub.co.za/2017/07/27/isina-muva-by-sjava-goes-gold/|website=HIP HOP NEWS HUB|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Keteyi|first1=Oluthando|title=Sjava's Album Goes Gold and Celebrates with a New Gold Deluxe Version|url=http://www.sabreakingnews.co.za/2017/07/26/sjavas-album-goes-gold-and-celebrates-with-a-new-gold-deluxe-version/|website=SA Breaking News|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref> The album earned Sjava an award at the 23rd [[South African Music Awards]] for Best Produced Album.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hiphophub.co.za/2017/05/27/breaking-news-sjava-wins-best-produced-album-sama23-isana-muva/|title=BREAKING NEWS: Sjava Wins ''Best Produced Album'' at the #SAMA23 for 'Isana Muva'|website=Hip Hop Hub}}</ref> It also won for a similar category at the 16th [[Metro FM]] Music Awards, and received four nominees: Best Afro Pop Album for ''Isina Muva'', Best Male and Best New Artist.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sahiphopmag.co.za/2017/03/sjava-details-didnt-go-receive-metro-award-stage/|title=Sjava Details Why He Didn't Go To Receive His Metro Award On Stage|website=SA Hip Hop Mag|date=8 March 2017}}</ref> Also in 2017, Sjava recorded the theme song for the [[Mzansi Magic]] drama telenovela ''[[Isithembiso]]'', which premiered on 3 April 2017.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tvsa.co.za/shows/viewshow.aspx?showid=5472|title=Isithembiso|website=TVSA}}</ref>
====2017– 2019: ''Umphako'' and ''Umqhele''====
The film ''[[Black Panther (film)|Black Panther]]'' was accompanied by a [[Black Panther (soundtrack)|soundtrack album]] curated by rapper [[Kendrick Lamar]], which Sjava appeared on.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/black-panther-the-album-south-african-artists-8098958/|title=Every South African Artist Featured on 'Black Panther The Album'|magazine=Billboard}}</ref> Sjava was featured on the song "Seasons", alongside rappers [[Mozzy]] and a TDE rapper [[Reason (American rapper)|Reason]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/post/sa.aa5714c0-9423-11e8-a154-9cace2c3dd1d|title=Watch "Sjava on "Seasons" f/ Mozzy & Reason" posted by Ebro Darden|website=Apple Music}}</ref> The album was nominated at the [[61st Annual Grammy Awards]] for [[Grammy Award for Album of the Year|Album of the Year]], making it his first nominee at the ceremony for his appearance.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sahiphopmag.co.za/2018/12/kwesta-on-sjava-saudi-yugens-assists-on-a-grammy-nominated-album/|title=Kwesta On Sjava, Saudi & Yugen's Assists On A Grammy Nominated Album|website=SA Hip Hop Mag|date=11 December 2018}}</ref>
The lead single from Sjava's debut [[Extended Play|EP]] ''Umpakho'', "Abangani" featuring Saudi and Emtee was released on 14 June 2018 accompanied by a video paying homage to their humble beginnings.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/abangani-feat-emtee-saudi-single/1397873831|title=Abangani (feat. Emtee & Saudi) – Single by Sjava|website=Apple Music}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.zkhiphani.co.za/new-sjava-goes-back-to-basics-in-new-video-for-abangani/|title=NEW: Sjava Goes Back To Basics In New Video For Abangani|website=Zkhipani|date=18 June 2018}}</ref> On 24 June 2018, Sjava earned a [[BET Award]] for Best New International Act at the 2018 event.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cosmopolitan.co.za/celebrities/sjava-wins-at-bet-awards-2018/|title=Sjava Wins at BET Awards 2018|website=COSMOPOLITAN South Africa}}</ref> ''Umphako'' was released on 6 July 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.okayafrica.com/sjava-umphako-ep/|title=Listen to Sjava's New EP 'Umphako'|website=OkayAfrica|date=6 July 2018}}</ref> The four-track project topped the [[iTunes]] local chart on its first day, and is described as Sjava asserting himself as an empathetic worker's champion.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sahiphopmag.co.za/2018/07/sjavas-umphako-tops-itunes-charts-on-its-first-day/|title=Listen to Sjava's New EP 'Umphako'|website=SA Hip Hop Mag|date=6 July 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://bimba.co.za/sjava/umphako-ep|title=Sjava – Umphako EP|website=Bimba}}</ref>
Sjava's second studio album ''Umqhele'' was released on 14 December 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thesouthafrican.com/lifestyle/latest-songs-sjava-umqhele/|title=Latest songs in South Africa this week: Sjava releases Umqhele|website=The South African|date=14 December 2018}}</ref> The album's lead single "Umama", was released seven days before the album was available.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.yomzansi.com/2019/03/03/watch-sjava-shows-love-and-appreciation-to-his-mother-in-umama-video/|title=Sjava shows love and appreciation to his mother in 'Umama' video|website=YoMZansi|date=3 March 2019}}</ref> "Umama" later spawned a version on the global music platform COLORS, where he was featured performing the song on 13 May 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://colorsxstudios.com/shows/sjava-umama/|title=Sjava – Umama|website=COLORXSTUDIOS}}</ref> ''Umqhele'' atopped the iTunes local chart and received positive reviews from critics.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ewn.co.za/2018/12/21/sjava-s-umqhele-tops-itunes-sa-album-charts-a-week-after-release|title=Sjava's 'Umqhele' comfortably sitting at the top of SA digital album charts|website=EWN}}</ref>
On 23 November 2019, Sjava bagged Best Male Artist in Southern Africa award at 2019 [[All Africa Music Awards]].<ref>{{cite web|title=All the 2019 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) winners |url=https://m.bizcommunity.africa/Article/410/480/198271.html|work=Biz Community|access-date=25 November 2020}}</ref>
On 26 May 2020, Sjava announced via social media that he has departed his label, [[Ambitiouz Entertainment]]. He expressed gratitude towards the label for giving him an "opportunity and platform when no one did".<ref>{{Cite tweet|url=https://twitter.com/Sjava_atm/status/1265298558141583366?s=19|number=1265298558141583366|title=Statement by Sjava: Sjava departs Ambitiouz|author=Sjava indlalifa|user=Sjava_atm|date=26 May 2020|access-date=26 May 2020}}</ref>
=== 2020-present: 1020 Cartel, ''Umsebenzi'' EP, ''Isibuko'', ''Ukhamba'' === Following departure with [[Ambitiouz Entertainment]], Sjava self signed to his record deal 1020 Cartel and released his [[Extended Play]] ''Umsebenzi'' on 14 December 2020.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/entertainment/2020-07-31-sjava-aims-for-stars-with-new-label/|title=Sjava aims for stars with new label - SowetanLIVE|publisher=Sowetan LIVE|access-date=31 July 2020}}</ref> The EP was certified with gold plaque.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sjava celebrates "Umsebenzi" EP gold status with a deluxe {{!}} Fakaza News|url= https://fakazanews.com/2021/10/01/sjava-celebrates-umsebenzi-ep-gold-status-with-a-deluxe/|work=Fakaza News|access-date =1 October 2021|last=Adejoy}}</ref>
Sjava appeared on a collaboration "10k" with South African band [[Mafikizolo]] released on 10 June 2022.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.news24.com/amp/channel/the-juice/news/mafikizolo-release-classic-single-featuring-sjava-20220610| publisher =Channel | access-date =2023-04-02|language=en|location=South Africa|first=Keitumetse |last=Maako|date=2022-06-10|title=Mafikizolo release 'classic' single featuring Sjava}}</ref>
In December 2022, he announced his third studio album ''[[Isibuko]]'', which was released 27 January 2023. It features guests such as Shwi, Saudi, [[Emtee]], [[Sampa the Great]], Delayde, Lolli Native, [[Qwabe Twins]], Umzukulu, Umzulu Phaqa, Udumakahle, Anzo, Vernotile, Inkos' Yamagcokama, and Nontokozo Mkhize.
The song "Isoka" featuring Q Twins and Mzukulu charted number 1 on Metro FM Top 30 for two consecutive weeks.
Sjava & [[Big Zulu]] worked on their joint album ''Ukhamba'', as Inkabi Zezwe.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://sahiphopmag.co.za/2023/03/sjava-big-zulu-gear-up-to-release-a-joint-music-project/|title=Sjava & Big Zulu Gear Up To Release A Joint Music Project|first=Clive|last=Banda|date=18 March 2023|website=SA Hip Hop Mag}}</ref> Album's lead single "Umbayimbayi" was released on 24 March 2023 and debuted number one on Top 100 South Africa.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://briefly.co.za/entertainment/music/156269-big-zulu-sjas-hit-song-umbayimbayi-charts-number-1-spotify-apple-music/|title="Khuphukani": SA proud of Sjava and Big Zulu's song reaching number 1 on Spotify|first=Sinazo|last=Tshambuluka|date=28 March 2023|website=Briefly}}</ref> The song was certified 3× Platinum in South Africa.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://slikouronlife.co.za/blog/24145/big-zulu-sjavas-umbayimbayi-hits-gold-status-in-sa|title=Big Zulu & Sjava's 'Umbayimbayi' Hits Gold Status In SA|website=slikouronlife.co.za}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://slikouronlife.co.za/blog/24176/inkabi-zezwes-umbayimbayi-certified-platinum|title=Inkabi Zezwe's 'Umbayimbayi' Certified Platinum|website=slikouronlife.co.za}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://sahiphopmag.co.za/2023/07/big-zulu-x-sjavas-umbayimbayi-goes-triple-platinum/|title=Big Zulu X Sjava's 'Umbayimbayi' Goes Triple Platinum|first=Clive|last=Banda|date=18 July 2023|website=SA Hip Hop Mag}}</ref>
In October 2023, Sjava contested with Focalistic at Red Bull Sound Clash South Africa and won the title held at Sun Arena, Time Square.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bona.co.za/entertainment/sjava-wins-redbull-sound-clash/|title=Sjava wins Red Bull SoundClash|first=Silindokuhle|last=Booi|work=Bona Magazine|access-date=2024-06-25}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|access-date=2024-06-25|date=2023-10-30|title=Team Sjava Reigns Supreme Over Team Focalistic At Red Bull SoundClash 2023|url=https://www.redbull.com/za-en/red-bull-sound-clash-south-africa-report|work=Red Bull}}</ref>
Towards the end of July 2024, he announced his upcoming The 2016 Tour, to promote his debut studio album ''Isina Muva''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sjava gets fans excited with announcement of a show to honour his first 2016 album|first=Sergio |last=Miller|url=https://www.bona.co.za/entertainment/sjava-gets-fans-excited-with-announcement-of-a-show-to-honour-his-first-2016-album/|work=Bona|access-date=2024-07-31}}</ref> It will commerce on 27-29 September, Joburg Theatre, follows 1-2 November, Play House Theatre, other dates will be announced.<ref>{{cite web |date=2024-12-18|access-date=2024-12-22|work=Joburg ETC|url=https://www.joburgetc.com/things-to-do/sjava-2016-tour-pretoria/|title=Relive Sjava’s Breakout Year at The 2016 Tour in Pretoria}}</ref>
During his tour in December 2024, Sjava announced his live extended play ''Inkanyezi'', released on January 31, 2025.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sjava Promises New EP Early 2025, Fans Overjoyed After Official Announcement|first=Rutendo|last=Masasi |work=Briefly|access-date=2024-12-22|date=2024-12-21|url=https://briefly.co.za/entertainment/music/205814-sjava-promises-ep-early-2025-fans-overjoyed-official-announcement/}}</ref>
In early December 2025, Sjava announced his upcoming studio album ''INkanyezi NeZinkanyezi'', scheduled for release on January 30, 2026.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sjava confirms new album for 2026: ‘INkanyezi NeZinkanyezi’|url=https://www.kaya959.co.za/music/sjava-confirms-new-album-for-2026-inkanyezi-nezinkanyezi/|access-date=2025-12-17|work=Kaya959|first=Zuko|last=Komisa}}</ref>
=== Endorsement ===
In July 2024, Sjava announced partnership with Omega as the brand ambassador.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.iol.co.za/saturday-star/news/sjava-elevates-bhinca-culture-with-new-range-of-shoes-4d89e327-6287-45dd-b184-8ed6fb0d4a83 |date=2024-06-21|title=Sjava elevates ‘Bhinca’ culture with new range of shoes|work=Independent Online|access-date=2024-06-22|first=Siyabonga|last=Sithole}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=SJAVA ANNOUNCES COLLABORATION WITH OMEGA ORIGINAL FOOTWEAR|url=https://frontpage.co.za/sjava-announces-collaboration-with-omega-original-footwear/ |work=Front Page|access-date=2024-06-22}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Sjava Collaborates With Omega Footwear On Their New Leather Shoe Line And Mzansi Appears Unimpressed|url=https://www.ubetoo.com/news/sjava-collaborates-with-omega-footwear-on-their-new-leather-shoe-line-and-mzansi-appears-unimpressed/|work=Ubetoo|date=2024-06-21|first=Ikedichim |last=Chibundu|access-date=2024-06-22}}</ref>
===Television=== From 2005 to 2013, Sjava enrolled to acting. He appeared on several television shows; including ''Zone 14'', ''[[Generations (South African TV series)|Generations]]'' and ''Soul City'' and ''[[7de Laan]]'', ''[[Gugu and Andile|uGugu and Andile, Isibaya]]''. In August 2020, he landed on a small role on ''Uzalo''<ref>{{cite web|title=Sjava joins 'Uzalo' |url=https://www.iol.co.za/amp/entertainment/tv/local/sjava-joins-uzalo-fbf8495e-a2f4-4b8f-8226-89f95355caa3|access-date =13 August 2020|publisher=Independent Online}}</ref> and ''eHostela'' season 2.
In March 2023, Sjava bagged acting role of Prince Mkhuseli Khahlamba in ''Queendom''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sjava bags role, crafts title track in star-studded series 'Queendom' |work=The South African |access-date=2024-03-02|date=2024-03-01|first=Nokuthula|last=Ngcobo|url=https://www.thesouthafrican.com/lifestyle/celeb-news/local-celebs/sjava-role-title-track-series-queendom-bet-africa-dstv-129-linda-mtoba-sinfi-dlathu/}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|first=Nompumelelo|last=Magagula|title=Sjava, Sindi Dlathu, Linda Mtoba to feature in new BET Africa's star-studded daily drama Queendom {{!}} City Press|date=2024-03-02|access-date=2024-03-02|publisher=CityPress|location=South Africa|url-access=subscription |url=https://www.news24.com/citypress/trending/sjava-sindi-dlathu-linda-mtoba-to-feature-in-new-bet-africas-star-studded-daily-drama-queendom-20240301}}</ref>
==Discography== ===Studio albums=== {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;" |+ List of studio albums, with selected information ! scope="col" style="width:11em;" | Title ! scope="col" style="width:18em;" | Album details !Certification |- ! scope="row" |{{center|''Isina Muva''}} | * Released: 22 July 2016 * Label: [[Ambitiouz Entertainment]] * Formats: CD, Digital download |[[Recording Industry of South Africa|RISA]]: Gold |- umphako ! scope="row" |{{center|''[[Umqhele (album)|Umqhele]]''}} | * Released: 14 December 2018 * Label: Ambitiouz Entertainment * Formats: CD, Digital download | |- !scope="row"|{{center|''[[Isibuko]]''}} | * Released: 27 January 2023<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://theplugmag.com/sjava-releases-his-long-awaited-third-album-isibuko/|title=Sjava Releases His Long Awaited Third Album Isibuko|first=Sekese|last=Rasephei|date=27 January 2023}}</ref> * Label: 1020 Cartel * Formats: [[Streaming media|Streaming]], Digital download | [[Recording Industry of South Africa|RiSA]]: Platinum |}
===Extended plays=== {|class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;" |+ List of extended plays, with selected information ! scope="col" style="width:11em;"| Title ! scope="col" style="width:18em;"| EP details !Certification |- ! scope="row"|<div style="text-align: center;">''Umphako''</div> | * Released: 6 July 2018<ref>{{cite web |title=Umphako – EP by Sjava on Apple Music |url=https://itunes.apple.com/za/album/umphako-ep/1401330183 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180713042917/https://itunes.apple.com/za/album/umphako-ep/1401330183 |url-status=dead |archive-date=13 July 2018 |publisher=iTunes Store |access-date=20 July 2018}}</ref> * Label: Ambitiouz Entertainment * Formats: Digital download | |- ! scope="row" |<div style="text-align: center;">''Umsebenzi''</div> | * Released: 4 December 2020 * Label: 1020 Cartel * Formats: Digital download, [[Streaming media|Streaming]] | [[Recording Industry of South Africa|RiSA]]: Gold |- ! scope="row" | <div style="text-align: center;">''Inkanyezi (Live)''</div> | * Released: 31 January 2025<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bona.co.za/entertainment/sjava-gives-the-people-what-they-want-inkanyezi-ep-out-now/|first=Nomonde |last=Simelane|title=Sjava gives the people what they want- Inkanyezi EP out now|work=Bona Magazine|date=2025-10-02}}</ref><ref>https://www.iol.co.za/entertainment/music/local/sjavas-inkanyezi-live-ep-where-love-meets-soulful-storytelling-in-perfect-harmony-690bd415-771f-48bc-93e7-9bc0ae4b65b8</ref> * Label: 1020 Cartel * Formats: [[Streaming media|Streaming]], [[Music download|digital download]] | |- ! scope="row" | <div style="text-align: center;">''Inkanyezi 2.0 (Live)''</div> | * Released: 5 September 2025 * Label: 1020 Cartel * Formats: [[Streaming media|Streaming]], [[Music download|digital download]] | |}
=== Guest appearances === {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;" ! scope="col" style="width:14em;" |Title ! scope="col" |Year ! scope="col" |Other artist(s) ! scope="col" |Album |- ! scope="row" |"Broken Promises" |2024 |[[Bravo Le Roux]], Benjaman |''Igazi, Iinyembezi Nombilo (Deluxe)'' |}
== Singles == ===As lead artist=== {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;" |+ List of singles as lead artist, with selected chart positions and certifications, showing year released and album name |- ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Title ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Year ! scope="col" colspan="1"| Peak chart positions ! scope="col" rowspan="2" style="width:12em;"| [[List of music recording certifications|Certifications]] ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Album |- ! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:100%;"|[[Entertainment Monitoring Africa|ZA]]<br /> |- ! scope="row" | "Mngani" (Darque, Sjava) |rowspan=4| 2023 | — | |''More Life'' |- ! scope="row" | "[[Umbayimbayi]]" (Sjava, Big Zulu) |1 | 3× Platinum |''Ukhamba'' |- ! scope="row" | "Ingunaphakade" (Zaba, Sjava) | — | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" | "Umntu" (Sjava, Bravo Le Roux) | — | | ''Igazi, Iinyembezi Nombilo'' |- ! scope="row" |"Ngibongiseni" |rowspan=3|2024 |— | |''Isibuko (Deluxe)'' |- ! scope="row" |"Tholakuwe" (Herc Cut The Lights, Sjava, [[Blxckie]] featuring [[Young Stunna]] ) |— | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" |"Love is still a answer" (Mawat, Soweto Gospel Choir, Sjava, Lebo Sekgobela, Masandi, Mariechan) |— | |{{non-album single}} |- | colspan="8" style="font-size:90%"| "—" denotes a recording that did not chart or was not released in that territory. |}
== Other charted and certified songs == {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;" border="1" |+ List of other charted songs, with selected chart positions and certifications, showing year released and album name |- ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Title ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Year ! scope="col" colspan="1"| Peak chart positions ! scope="col" rowspan="2" style="width:12em;"| [[List of music recording certifications|Certifications]] ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Album |- ! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:100%;"|[[Entertainment Monitoring Africa|ZA]]<br /> |- ! scope="row" |"God Laughs" (A-Reece featuring Sjava, Shekhinah) |rowspan=2|2023 |16<ref>{{cite web|url=https://theofficialsacharts.co.za/a-reece-marks-sensational-return-with-p2-the-big-hearted-bad-guy-ed-107/|title=A-Reece marks sensational return with P2: The Big Hearted Bad Guy|date=2023-11-02|access-date=2024-07-12|work=The Official South African Charts}}</ref> | |''[[P2: The Big Hearted Bad Guy]]'' |- ! scope="row" |"Isoka" (Sjava featuring Mzukulu, [[Qwabe Twins]]) |3<ref>{{cite web|title=Local Radio Chart Top 10|url=https://theofficialsacharts.co.za/charts/radio/|work= The Official South African Charts|access-date=2024-06-25}}</ref> | 2× Platinum |rowspan=2|''[[Isibuko]]'' |- ! scope="row" |"Typhoon" (Sjava featuring Sastii, LaCabra, Lowfeye & Blue Pappi) |rowspan=2|2024 |12<ref>{{cite web|title=TOP 100 Singles Chart today in South Africa|access-date=2024-05-25|url=https://www.icharts.co.za/za/music/topsongs/?start=0&length=20|work=iTines|date=2024-05-25}}</ref> | Platinum<ref>{{cite web|title=Sjava’s “Typhoon” Featuring Qwellers Goes Gold|url=https://sahiphopmag.co.za/2024/07/sjavas-typhoon-featuring-qwellers-goes-gold/ |access-date=2024-07-15|work=South African Hip Hop Magazine|date=2024-07-14|first=Clive|last=Banda}}</ref> |- ! scope="row" |"Uvalo" ([[Usimamane]] featuring Sjava) |1<ref>{{cite web|title=Usimamane’s meteoric shoot up the Charts|url=https://theofficialsacharts.co.za/usimamanes-meteoric-shoot-up-the-charts-ed-155/|work=The Official South African Charts|access-date=2024-10-04|date=2020-10-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/bw/playlist/top-100-south-africa/pl.447bd05172824b89bd745628f7f54c18|title=Top 100: South Africa|date=2024-09-16|access-date=2024-09-16|work=Apple Music}}</ref> | |''20th: Days Before Maud'' |- ! scope="row" |"Uyena" |rowspan=3|2025 |6<ref name=charts>{{cite web|title=It’s Sjava, The Lover|url=https://theofficialsacharts.co.za/its-sjava-the-lover-ed-171/|work=The Official South African Charts|access-date=2025-02-21|date=2025-02-14}}</ref> | |rowspan=3|''Inkanyezi'' |- ! scope="row" |"Kuye" |12<ref name=charts/> | |- ! scope="row" |"Sleepover" |19<ref name=charts/> | |- | colspan="8" style="font-size:90%"| "—" denotes a recording that did not chart or was not released in that territory. |}
==Awards and nominations== {{Infobox musician awards | name = Sjava | image = | image_size = | alt = | caption = | wins = 8 | nominations = 22 | award1 = [[Metro FM Music Awards]] | award1W = 1 | award1N = 10 | award2 = [[South African Music Awards]] | award2W = 4 | award2N = 7 | award3 = [[DStv]] Mzansi Viewers Choice Awards | award3W = 1 | award3N = 1 | award4 = [[BET Awards]] | award4W = 1 | award4N = 1 | award5 = [[South African Traditional Music Awards]] | award5W = 0 | award5N = 1 | award6 = GQ Awards | award6W = 1 | award6N = }}
=== All Africa Music Awards === {{Awards table}} !{{Abbrv|Ref.|References}} |- |2021 |Himself |Best Male Artist in African Inspirational Music |{{nom}} |<ref>{{Cite news|title=AFRIMA 2021: Blaq Diamond, Focalistic, Wizkid lead nominations - Daily Post Nigeria|url=https://dailypost.ng/2021/09/23/afrima-2021-blaq-diamond-focalistic-wizkid-lead-nominations/|location=Lagos, Nigeria|access-date=23 September 2021|first=Wale|last= Odunsi|newspaper=[[Daily Post (Nigeria)|Daily Post]]}}</ref> {{end}}
=== African Muzik Magazine Awards === {{Awards table}} |- |2023 |Himself |Best Male Southern Africa |{{nom}} {{end}}
===GQ Awards=== {{Awards table}} ! {{abbr|Ref.|References}} |- |2025 |div style="text-align: center";>|Herself |Men of the Year |{{won}} |<ref>{{cite web|title=2025 GQ Men of the Year Awards in SA: All the honourees|first=Ano|last=Shumba|date=2025-12-12|url=https://www.musicinafrica.net/magazine/2025-gq-men-year-awards-sa-all-honourees|work=Music in Africa|access-date=2025-12-17}}</ref> {{end}}
===Metro FM Music Awards=== {{awards table}} |- |rowspan="4"|2017 |rowspan="4"|<div style="text-align: center;">''Isina Muva''</div> |Best Male<ref name="metro17nom">{{cite web|title=Metro FM Music Awards: Full list of nominees|url=http://www.channel24.co.za/The-Juice/News/metro-fm-music-awards-full-list-of-nominees-20170118|website=channel24|publisher=The Juice|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref> |{{nom}} |- |Best New Artist<ref name="metro17nom"/> |{{nom}} |- |Best Afro Pop Album<ref name="metro17nom"/> |{{nom}} |- |Best Produced Album<ref name="metro17nom"/><ref>{{cite web|title=FULL LIST: Metro FM Award winners 2017|url=http://www.channel24.co.za/The-Juice/News/full-list-metro-fm-award-winners-2017-20170225|website=channel24|publisher=The Juice|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=16th Metro FM Awards 2017 ( Full List of Winners)|url=http://www.youthvillage.co.za/2017/02/16th-metro-fm-awards-2017-full-list-of-winners/|website=Youth Village|date=25 February 2017|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=WINNERS: 16th Metro FM Music Awards #MMA16|url=http://www.yomzansi.com/2017/02/25/winners-16th-metro-fm-music-awards-mma16/|website=YoMzansi|date=25 February 2017|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=All the 2017 SAMA winners, revealed|url=http://glamour.co.za/2017/05/2017-sama-winners-revealed/|website=Glamour|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref> |{{won}} |- |rowspan=7|2023 |rowspan=3|"Isoka" |Best Collaboration |{{nom}} |- | [[Metro FM Music Award for Song of the Year|Song of the Year]] |{{nom}} |- | Artist of the Year |{{nom}} |- |''[[Isibuko]]'' |Best Afro Soul Pop |{{nom}} |- |rowspan =3|Himself |Best Styled Artist |{{nom}} |- |Artist of the Year |{{nom}} |- |Best Male Artist |{{nom}} {{end}}
===South African Music Awards=== {{awards table}} |- |2017 |<div style="text-align: center;">''Isina Muva''</div> |Best Produced Album<ref>{{cite web|last1=Canham|first1=Tamlyn|title=#SAMA23: Full list of nominees|url=https://www.ecr.co.za/news/entertainment/sama23-full-list-nominees/|website=EastCoastRadio|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Here are all the 2017 Sama winners|url=http://www.channel24.co.za/Music/News/here-are-all-the-2017-sama-winners-20170526|website=channel24|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=This Just In: All The Winners At The 2017 SAMAs|url=http://www.marieclaire.co.za/latest-news/samas-2017-winners|website=Marie Claire|access-date=13 January 2018|archive-date=14 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180114021901/http://www.marieclaire.co.za/latest-news/samas-2017-winners|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=SAMA23 Winners|url=https://www.samusicawards.co.za/sama-2017/sama23-winners|website=South African Music Awards|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref> |{{won}} |- |rowspan="4" | 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.zkhiphani.co.za/watch-sjava-reacts-to-winning-south-african-music-awards-sama25/|title=Sjava Reacts To Winning South African Music Awards #SAMA25|website=Zkhipani}}</ref> |<div style="text-align: center;">''Umqhele''</div> |Album of the Year |{{won}} |- |<div style="text-align: center;">Himself</div> |Male Artist of the Year |{{nom}} |- |rowspan="2" | <div style="text-align: center;">''Umqhele''</div> |Best Engineered Album of the Year |{{nom}} |- |Best Afro Pop Album |{{won}} |- |2021 |<div style="text-align: center;">''Umsebenzi''</div> |Best Adult Contemporary Album |{{nominated}} |- |rowspan=5|2025 |rowspan=5| <div style="text-align: center;"> ''[[Isibuko]]''</div> |Male Artist of the Year |{{nom}} |- |Album of the Year |{{nom}} |- |Best Produced Album |{{nom}} |- | Best Engineered Album |{{nom}} |- | Best Afro pop Album |{{won}} {{end}}
=== South African Traditional Music Awards === {{Awards table}} !{{Abbrv|Ref.|References}} |- |2021 |''Umsebenzi'' |Best Male Artist/Group |{{nom}} |<ref>{{cite web|title=Full list of SATMA 2021 nominees {{!}} Fakaza News|url= https://fakazanews.com/2021/09/28/full-list-of-satma-2021-nominees/|work=Fakaza News|last=Adejoy|access-date=28 September 2021}}</ref> {{end}}
===DSTV Mzansi Viewers' Choice Awards=== {{awards table}} |- |2017 |<div style="text-align: center;">Himself</div> |Rising Star<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.channel24.co.za/TV/News/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-mzansi-viewers-choice-awards-20170621|title=Everything you need to know about the Mzansi Viewers' Choice Awards|date=21 June 2017|website=Channel24|access-date=4 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Who Won What And Who Wore What at the Inaugural DSTV Viewers' Choice Awards 2017|url=http://www.marieclaire.co.za/latest-news/dstv-awards-winners-2017|website=Marie Claire|access-date=13 January 2018|archive-date=14 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180114024833/http://www.marieclaire.co.za/latest-news/dstv-awards-winners-2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Who won what at the DStv Viewer's Choice Awards|url=https://www.iol.co.za/entertainment/tv/who-won-what-at-the-dstv-viewers-choice-awards-10968235|website=IOL|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Here are all the Winners from DStv Mzansi Viewers' Choice Awards|url=http://www.yomzansi.com/2017/08/27/here-are-all-the-winners-from-dstv-mzansi-viewers-choice-awards/|website=YoMzansi|access-date=13 January 2018}}</ref> |{{won}} {{end}}
===BET Awards=== {{awards table}} |- |2018 |<div style="text-align: center;">Himself</div> |Best New International Act<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.enca.com/life/entertainment/sjava-wins-bet-award|title=Sjava wins BET award | eNCA|website=www.enca.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2018-06-25-watch-sjava-wins-bet-award-and-his-acceptance-speech-was-epic/| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180625090923/https://www.timeslive.co.za/amp/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2018-06-25-watch-sjava-wins-bet-award-and-his-acceptance-speech-was-epic/| archive-date = 2018-06-25| title = WATCH: Sjava wins BET Award and his acceptance speech was epic}} </ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://zalebs.com/top-of-the/sjava/sjava-wins-bet-award|title=Sjava wins BET Award|website=ZAlebs}}</ref> |{{won}} {{end}}
==References== {{Reflist}}
{{Authority control}}
[[Category:21st-century South African rappers]] [[Category:1983 births]] [[Category:Living people]] [[Category:South African singer-songwriters]] [[Category:Musicians from KwaZulu-Natal]] [[Category:Actors from KwaZulu-Natal]] [[Category:Soul musicians]] [[Category:South African rhythm and blues musicians]] [[Category:21st-century South African male singers]] [[Category:People from Okhahlamba Local Municipality]] [[Category:English-language South African singers]] [[Category:Zulu-language South African singers]]