August marks Women’s Month in South Africa – a time to celebrate the power, passion and perseverance of women across Mzansi! In the music industry, female artists continue to break barriers, shift narratives and inspire change, both on stage and behind the scenes. At On The Bill (OTB), this is not just something we acknowledge… It’s something we actively invest in.
From rising voices to seasoned icons, OTB is proud to champion a diverse roster of talented women who are shaping the sound of South African music. Meet Tamara Dey, Sethu G, and Jeandre Gabriels – three distinct artists at different stages of their musical journeys, but all with one thing in common: they’re thriving, empowered and supported by OTB and OTB Studios – a platform committed to their growth.
A national icon
A long-standing figure in South Africa’s music scene, Tamara Dey’s sound is as genre-defying as her style is iconic. Fusing pop, kwaito, funk and soul with unapologetic energy, she continues to set stages and dancefloors alight. But her impact goes far beyond her music.
Tamara Dey’s presence a OTB is not just about spotlighting a star – it’s about creating space for legacy and influence. She represents the heights that women can reach in the industry and the importance of platforms that allow them to remain relevant and respected. Her journey shows young artists what’s possible when you lead with authenticity and courage!
A star on the rise
Sethu G’s journey is a testament to the power of opportunity – and what happens when talent meets the right support system. The Durban-born R&B and soul singer first captured attention at New Talent Tuesdays, OTB’s weekly live music showcase aimed at discovering emerging voices. Her smooth, sultry tone and magnetic stage presence were undeniable. From that moment, her career took flight. Since signing with OTB, Sethu has gone from local gigs to international tours – most recently performing in Austria with Acoustic Element.
“I’ve always wanted to be an international superstar, from as little as I can remember. I don’t think too many people really thought I would be able to do it (and especially not intentionally),” she says. “But since becoming a part of the OTB family, I truly feel like the dream that little Sethu had growing up is becoming a reality; and for that I will forever be grateful.”
At OTB Studios, she’s found creative synergy with producer Luke Goliath, pushing into new genres like afrohouse and afrotech while staying rooted in soul.
Her evolution as a solo artist reflects the very heart of Women’s Month: progress, self-discovery and the power of women finding and owning their voices.
A new voice
Jeandre Gabriels, is a singer-songwriter from the Mother City whose indie-pop soul sound is both intimate and powerful. A graduate of the University of the Western Cape’s performing arts programme, Gabriels honed her skills in jazz ensembles and church choirs – settings where she first discovered the power of her voice.
Now recording her debut album, Reckless Heart, at OTB Studios, Gabriels is proof that OTB’s commitment to development is more than just talk. It’s about real resources, real opportunities and real belief in women at the very beginning of their artistic journeys.
“There’s something in the music that I can feel, something real,” she explains. “I want people to feel what I’m feeling when they hear my songs. Maybe they’ll even relate to what I’ve been through.”
Her first step back into the spotlight came at New Talent Tuesdays, where she performed live for the first time in six years. “The Blue Room has become such a special space for me,” she says. “From my very first New Talent Tuesdays – getting up and singing in front of an audience for the first time in six years – I gave it my all. Since then, this place has started to feel like home.”
With influences like Amy Winehouse, Gabriels brings emotional honesty and artistic depth to a new generation of listeners and her journey is just beginning.
More than a platform – a purpose
At OTB, our mission goes beyond booking artists – it’s about building an ecosystem where artists, especially women, can grow, express themselves authentically and thrive in an ever-evolving South African music industry. We believe in uplifting female talent, not just during Women’s Month, but all year round.
Through live platforms like New Talent Tuesdays, in-studio collaborations and international opportunities, OTB ensures that women have the tools, mentorship and visibility they need to succeed. Whether it’s creating with icons like Tamara Dey, crafting new hits with producers like Luke Goliath or guiding artists like Gabriels as they find their footing, we’re committed to seeing women win.
This Women’s Month, we honour all the incredible women shaping South African music!
