Rakgoale Nelly Machete, professionally known as Shandesh, is a South African singer who has become the face of the Lekompo music genre. Born on 25 January 2004 in Ga-Modjadji, Mohlabaneng, Limpopo, Shandesh has risen from humble beginnings to become one of South Africa’s most exciting young artists. At just 22 years old, she has already achieved multiple platinum and gold certifications, won a Metro FM Music Award, and amassed over 80 million streams on Spotify.
Shandesh’s journey from a small-town girl to a national music sensation is a story of talent, determination, and cultural pride. She is credited with being the first female artist to introduce Lekompo music to the mainstream South African music industry. Her unique sound blends traditional Limpopo rhythms with contemporary beats, creating a fresh genre that has captured the hearts of millions.
Personal Information
Full name: Rakgoale Nelly Machete
Stage name: Shandesh
Date of birth: 25 January 2004
Age: 22 years old (as of 2026)
Place of birth: Ga-Modjadji, Mohlabaneng, Limpopo
Raised in: Solomondale, Limpopo
Nationality: South African
Occupation: Singer, songwriter
Genres: Lekompo, House, Amapiano fusion
Years active: 2018 to present
Labels: Shandesh Music, Virgin Active
Early Life and Education
Born on 25 January 2004 in Ga-Modjadji, Mohlabaneng, in the Limpopo province of South Africa, Rakgoale Nelly Machete was raised in Solomondale, Limpopo. She grew up in a community where music was an integral part of daily life, and her love for singing became evident at a very young age.
Shandesh’s musical journey began in the fourth grade when she joined her church and school choir. These early experiences helped her develop her vocal abilities and sparked her passion for performance. Speaking to DRUM magazine, she revealed that she started recording music professionally when she was in eighth grade in 2018, at the age of just 14.
Despite her young age, Shandesh was determined to pursue a career in music. She drew inspiration from Bolobedu music and sounds from the streets of Limpopo. “I didn’t get introduced to it; I was inspired by bolobedu music. I was influenced by sounds from the streets. I started blending different rhythms that resonated with me and over time, I realised that I was developing something fresh and different,” she explained in an interview with News24.
Music Career Breakthrough
Shandesh gained recognition following the release of her debut single “Lomolo” in 2018, which scored her gigs in her hometown of Solomondale. The success of her debut track was unexpected but welcomed, as it confirmed that her unique sound had an audience. “I didn’t see it as a hobby anymore but my purpose,” she reflected.
In the early years of her career, Shandesh worked with established artists including King Monada and Shebeshxt. These collaborations helped her gain exposure and build her network within the South African music industry. She also released several projects, including the EP “Mphoentle” in 2022 and “Versatile” in 2024.
Despite her early success, Shandesh faced significant challenges. Breaking into a competitive industry required her to find her unique sound and deal with rejection. “At times, opportunities didn’t come easily and I had to push to get to be known. Not only did I have to navigate through self-doubt, I had to learn the business side of music – a challenge that has shaped me into the artist I am today,” she told Sowetan.
Breakthrough with Lekompo Genre
Shandesh is credited with being the first female artist to introduce Lekompo music to the mainstream South African industry. Lekompo is a dynamic genre that originates from Limpopo, seamlessly fusing traditional rhythms with captivating lyrics. It emerged from the lived experiences of Limpopo farmworkers, evolving from what was once dismissed as “rural noise” to a national streaming sensation.
Initially, Shandesh was unsure how her music would be received. “I thought they would reject it, but I had to trust my gut and keep pushing because I believed in the sound, and I knew someone outside would too,” she explained. “This is my lifetime breakthrough, not because of the recognition but because it allows me to express my identity and culture freely. It’s not just music; it’s a movement now”.
Her dedication to the genre has paid off. By 2025, Shandesh was leading the Lekompo movement with over 80 million streams on Spotify, while her hit “Sdudla or Slender” broke into the top 10 most-streamed songs in South Africa.
Major Hits and Chart Success
In 2025, Shandesh collaborated with South African record producer Mvzzle on the single “Sdudla or Slender,” which peaked at number 2 on the Official South African Charts (TOSAC). The same year, the pair released “Di Chopper,” which debuted at number 5 on TOSAC.
Her collaboration with Hitboss on “Ga Mmapula” peaked at number 32 on TOSAC. In recognition of her success, Shandesh received a commemorative plaque confirming that “Ga Mmapula” was certified gold and “Sdudla or Slender” was certified platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA).
Shandesh has continued to release chart-topping music. In 2026, she dropped “The Time Is Now” EP and has released several singles including “Ba Lwele,” “Straata,” “Mogatsaka” (with Nkosazana Daughter), and “Mpepe” (with Nkosazana Daughter). Her collaborative spirit extends to features on tracks like “Sgubu” with Naleboy Young King.
Awards and Recognition
Shandesh’s talent has been recognized with several prestigious awards and nominations. At the 2025 Basadi in Music Awards, she won Best Dance Artist. Her biggest achievement came at the 2026 Metro FM Music Awards, where she won Best Female Artist.
At the same ceremony, she was also nominated for Best New Artist, Best Lekompo, and Song of the Year for “Sdudla or Slender”. Her appearance at the awards, where she performed alongside artists like Mafikizolo and Nkosazana, solidified her status as one of South Africa’s leading female artists.
The streaming data confirms her impact. Shandesh experienced a remarkable 1,800% stream uplift, which was not just impressive but transformative. Her ability to sit comfortably alongside industry titans like DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small demonstrates the kind of resonance that separates viral moments from lasting careers.
Philanthropy and Community Work
Beyond her music career, Shandesh is committed to giving back to her community. She is planning to launch the Rakgoale Foundation, an organisation dedicated to helping underprivileged kids with food parcels, sanitary towels, and school shoes.
This philanthropic effort reflects her deep connection to her roots and her desire to make a positive impact on the lives of young people in Limpopo. Her initiative demonstrates the values instilled in her by her community and her commitment to using her platform for good.
Playing Style and Musical Influence
Shandesh has carved out a unique space in the South African music industry through her genre-fluid approach. She has experimented with different styles to find her true voice. “I had to try a few genres to find my true voice,” she explained. “I started exploring different styles, experimenting with sounds and working with various producers. It wasn’t always easy, but embracing change helped me discover what feels authentic to me as an artist”.
She is known for blending traditional Limpopo rhythms with modern beats, creating a sound that is both fresh and culturally resonant. She also respects the work of fellow artists like King Monada and Makhadzi, who have inspired her with their work ethic, versatility, and stage presence.
Personal Life
Despite her busy career, Shandesh has spoken candidly about her journey and the challenges she has overcome. She has been open about her self-doubt and the difficulties of navigating the music industry as a young woman. “There were moments of doubt, when I questioned if I was on the right path. I’d spend countless hours practising my dance routines, going to recording sessions and gigging… the main thing that got me through the years was my love for music and the support from my team and fans, who kept me going”.
She has also expressed her admiration for her musical predecessors, saying, “It’s an honour to perform alongside talented artists who have paved the way before me. Seeing what they do motivates me to keep my head down and work hard, and I hope to learn from their experience and energy, especially from someone like Makhadzi”.
When not working on music, Shandesh enjoys spending time with close friends, listening to music, and discovering new serene places. She hopes to one day work with Pabi Cooper and to reach a global status, inspiring others through her music and building a lasting legacy.
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Discography
Extended Plays
Mphoentle (2022)
Versatile (2024)
The Time Is Now (2026)
Charted Singles
As lead artist
“Sdudla or Slender” (with Mvzzle) – 2025 – Peak 2 – RiSA: Platinum
“Di Chopper” (with Mvzzle, featuring Abi wa Mampela and Naleboy Young King) – 2025 – Peak 5
“Ga Mmapula” (featuring Hitboss) – 2025 – Peak 32 – RiSA: Gold
“Warning” (featuring Shebeshxt, King Salah and KayCherlow) – 2025 – Peak 14
“Mamenemene” (with DJ Janisto and King Salah) – 2025 – Peak 39
“Passport” (with Mvzzle) – 2025 – Peak 36
“Tshwara Tlhogo” (featuring Abi wa Mampela and Hitboss SA) – 2025 – Peak 57
As featured artist
“Shapa Bell” (Naleboy Young King featuring Shandesh and King WaveMusiq) – 2025 – Peak 34
Awards and Achievements
Basadi in Music Awards (2025) – Best Dance Artist (Winner)
Metro FM Music Awards (2026) – Best Female Artist (Winner)
Metro FM Music Awards (2026) – Best New Artist (Nominee)
Metro FM Music Awards (2026) – Best Lekompo (Nominee)
Metro FM Music Awards (2026) – Song of the Year (Nominee)