Sylent Nqo strikes gold with “Huya” hitting 10 million streams

ACCLAIMED Zimbabwean-Mozambican guitarist, composer, and singer-songwriter Sylent Nqo, revered as “The Guitar Sangoma,” has reached a monumental career milestone.

His deeply resounding single, “Huya,” has achieved triple gold certification after surpassing a staggering 10 million streams worldwide, marking a defining moment in what has already been an exceptional 2025 for the boundary-pushing artiste.

Released earlier this year to widespread critical acclaim, “Huya” has captivated listeners across Africa and the globe. The track’s success is built on Sylent Nqo’s signature sound: emotive, masterful guitar work intertwined with spiritual undertones and innovative, genre-blending production.

These very elements, which evoke a sense of healing and profound connection, earned him the moniker, “The Guitar Sangoma.”

The song’s massive reach underscores his rapidly growing influence as both a virtuoso instrumentalist and a compelling storyteller within the contemporary African music landscape.

“This milestone means everything. I’m deeply thankful to the incredible Bridgenorth team for standing with me every day as I pursue what I love. Reaching this point is a dream, but it’s only the beginning. We have powerful new music ready to share soon, and more wins ahead,” Sylent Nqo reflected.

His label, Bridgenorth, has been instrumental in amplifying, “Huya” and his vision. Label executive Rob Burrell lauded Nqo’s achievement and work ethic: “Sylent is an exceptional hard worker who truly represents what Bridgenorth stands for: local talent with global ambition. We are proud to support his journey and look forward to witnessing his continued growth.”

Fellow label head Keith Farquharson echoed the sentiment, emphasising the collaborative triumph: “Sylent’s passion for his craft is extraordinary. This milestone reflects a strong collaborative effort and a truly deserved achievement for an artist whose dedication continues to inspire us all.”

The triple-gold success of “Huya” serves as the crowning achievement of a remarkable year for Sylent Nqo. He has maintained a prolific release schedule in 2025, dropping well-received singles including “Call Me Back,” “Denga” featuring Suhn and Mhaw Keys, and “Home Alone.” This consistent output has solidified his reputation as one of Southern Africa’s most innovative and vital musical voices.

Sylent Nqo is no stranger to accolades. His illustrious career includes leading his band, “The Noise Makers,” sharing stages with icons like UB40 featuring Alli Campbell, the late Dr Oliver Mtukudzi, and Hugh Masekela, and collaborating with contemporary stars such as Davido and Jah Prayzah.

His trophy cabinet boasts the prestigious, “Senior Solo Instrumental Grand Champion of the World” title won in Hollywood in 2016 and the “Best Alternative Musician” award at the Zimbabwe Music Awards (ZIMA) in 2019, following his critically-acclaimed debut album, “Sylent Treatment” in 2022.

With the triple-gold certification of “Huya” serving as powerful validation and momentum undeniably building, Sylent Nqo stands poised on the precipice of an even greater global breakthrough.

The “Guitar Sangoma’s” healing melodies and virtuosic talent are resonating louder than ever, promising more ground-breaking music and milestones to come. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu