In the heart of KwaNongoma, Northern KwaZulu-Natal, amidst the challenges of poverty, a young talent emerged, shaping his destiny through beats and rhymes. Zothiwani Jnr II Buthelezi (26), known by his stage name Judas Stone, epitomizes resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Born and raised in KwaNongoma, Judas Stone’s passion for music ignited at the tender age of 13. With nothing but a phone and a speaker, he and his crew, known as YOT, embarked on their musical journey, crafting their sound despite lacking the resources to properly record their tracks.
Judas Stone’s talent didn’t go unnoticed. While attending high school in KwaNongoma, he and his partner Percywayne Simangaliso Mpanza, formed a formidable duo that dominated music performance competitions, consistently clinching the top spot and earning cash prizes.
The turning point came in 2016 when Judas Stone and Percywayne secured a multi-million rand deal with Music House KZN, a government agency dedicated to nurturing talent. However, their dreams were short-lived as mismanagement and political turmoil led to the collapse of the institution, leaving the duo with only three recorded singles and shattered aspirations.
Undeterred, Judas Stone pursued higher education, studying management at the Durban University of Technology, but his passion for music never waned. Determined to carve his own path, he founded YOT Society Media Records (YSMR), a record label focused on music publishing and copyright legalities.
Currently based in Durban, Judas Stone is tirelessly working on his third joint project, “Pho 2 La II,” alongside acclaimed hip-hop artist and sound engineer Zamo “Mr. Sykotic” Zuma. Building on their previous successes with projects like “Pho 2 La” and “Pink Water,” the upcoming album aims to depict the realities and aspirations of South African artists in the entertainment industry.
Despite facing setbacks and unfulfilled promises from industry giants, Judas Stone remains undeterred, fueled by the belief that his record label and music will one day dominate the African continent. Grateful for the support of national radio stations such as “Ukhozi FM” for airplay and media houses that recognize his journey, Judas Stone continues to strive for excellence, embodying the spirit of a young hustler determined to make a difference.
In the symphony of adversity, Judas Stone’s melody echoes resilience, his lyrics reverberate determination, and his story inspires hope in the hearts of aspiring artists across South Africa. As he paves his way through the tumultuous terrain of the music industry, Judas Stone remains a beacon of promise and possibility.
