Rising star Panduleni Gideon, popularly known as Ms Gideon, recently signed a full record contract deal with Sony Music Africa.
The deal is in partnership with ERA Music Group.
The Windhoek-based singer has also announced she will be releasing her first single under the label, titled ‘Tiki Tak Tak,’ on 27 February.
Music In Africa, a pan-African online music platform music, reported yesterday that Ms Gideon remains the only Namibian artist with a direct recording contract under Sony Music Africa’s global roster, saying the deal marks a historic moment for the country’s music industry.
Reports indicate that local singer Lize Ehlers had a digital distribution deal linked to Sony in 2012.
“My dream has always been to represent Namibia with pride and show the world what young African voices can do,” Ms Gideon says.
She says joining Sony Music Africa is a huge moment for every young girl in Namibia who dreams boldly.
“I’m ready to make music that uplifts my people and moves the continent forward,” Ms Gideon says.
Being recognised as an emotive songwriter who fuses soul music, Afrobeats, and African influences, Ms Gideon has emerged as one of the top emerging faces on the Namibian music scene.
Her music offers empowering messages, especially to young African woman.
In 2024, Ms Gideon clinched the inaugural Fresh FM Song of the Year award with her hit single ‘Jehova’ through listeners’ votes.
In the same year, the breakout single ‘Home’ went on to reach over one million views on YouTube in the span of one month.
In 2025, Ms Gideon placed second in Bank Windhoek’s brand song remix competition, earning N$50 000.
“The biggest challenge has been doing everything on my own – from recording to promoting to funding studio time,” Ms Gideon says, reflecting on her music journey.
“With limited money and no major backing, it was hard to stay consistent. It’s a grind, but it makes every little win feel bigger.”
Ms Gideon credits social media for helping her break through.
“These platforms levelled the playing field. Before, you needed big labels or the radio to be heard. Now, if your content is real and connects, it can go global overnight.”
Ms Gideon now stands among African artists signed to Sony Music Africa’s global network, including Kenya’s Nyashinski, South Africa’s Tumi Musiq and King Monada, and Tanzania’s Abigail Chams.
Industry heavyweights Gazza, Sunny Boy, KP Illest and Lioness have congratulated her on the milestone.
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