South African singer-songwriter Nomcebo Zikode is weighing in on a fresh wave of attention around Jerusalema, after reality TV and beauty entrepreneur Kylie Jenner went viral for dancing to the global smash. For Nomcebo, seeing the track keep moving people years after its debut is a moment she describes as deeply meaningful.
The clip reignited debate online, with many people in South Africa celebrating that the widely loved anthem still connects with audiences worldwide. The renewed interest underscores how the song’s momentum never really faded.
Quick facts
- Nomcebo Zikode reacted to Kylie Jenner’s viral dance to Jerusalema.
- Nomcebo said the track’s lasting influence makes her proud.
- Jerusalema was created by Master KG featuring Nomcebo.
- The song became a worldwide phenomenon during the COVID-19 pandemic through a viral dance challenge.
- Nomcebo believes the emotional connection of the song crosses language barriers, even for those who don’t understand the Zulu lyrics.
- She said she keeps Jerusalema in her performance set whenever she gets the chance to play abroad.
From pandemic hit to global staple
Jerusalema, produced by Master KG with Nomcebo featuring, exploded across the world during the COVID-19 era. Its rise was fueled by a dance challenge that brought together people from different cultures, countries, and languages.
When asked about Kylie Jenner dancing to the track, Nomcebo said it’s special to witness the song continuing to travel far beyond its original home. She framed the moment as proof that the music still matters and still lands.
“I’m deeply honoured, above almost everything else, to have a song that stands the test of time. It’s such a beautiful thing to witness the impact it continues to have around the world, and it fills me with pride that my voice, and the voices of South African artists, can still resonate and echo globally,” she shared.
Nomcebo also pointed to the song’s long run, noting that nearly a decade after its release, its ongoing popularity is a reminder that South African musicians belong on the world stage. In her view, the country’s artists have the skill and originality to earn global recognition.
“To me, this song is a powerful, ongoing reminder that we, as South African artists, are truly worthy of global acclaim. Our talent is exceptional, and our music is world-class,” she explained.
“My deepest hope is that this reminder takes root in the hearts of musicians everywhere, inspiring us to pursue even greater heights with confidence and without fear or doubt. From global hits to Grammys to selling out venues overseas, we are worthy, and we are winning as a country,” she added.
Protecting the roots
Beyond the mainstream success, Nomcebo highlighted the cultural weight of Jerusalema and the need to preserve its South African identity. She described her wish for the song’s heritage and story to endure alongside its popularity.
“With this in mind, my biggest wish is for the heritage and the history of this song to also last with it: it was made in South Africa, and written by a South African woman, who carried its message across the world,” she said.
Even if listeners around the globe can’t fully follow the Zulu lyrics, Nomcebo believes the song still finds people through feeling. She stressed that the connection is carried by emotion and meaning, with the dance serving as a celebration of that shared experience.
“The song is sung in Zulu, a language that is distinctly ours as South Africans, so the rest of the world may struggle to understand the words I’m saying. We connect through the feeling and the meaning of the song, and celebrate this connection through its dance,” she noted.
She also made it clear that Jerusalema remains a key part of her live shows wherever she performs. For Nomcebo, the song isn’t just a past hit—it’s a recurring moment she ensures audiences can experience firsthand.
“So, whenever I get a chance to perform anywhere in the world, I make sure I include this song in my set.”
