Malkerns – The country’s most promising emerging artists are ready to take centre stage as the MTN Bushfire Firefly 2026 Top 10 finalists were unveiled on Friday at MTN Eswatini Headquarters.
The live Grand Finale will take place on 24 April at House On Fire. Fans will vote to select the top three performers who will secure a spot at the internationally acclaimed MTN Bushfire Festival 2026. Voting closes on 17 April via www.bush-fire.com/firefly.
The finalists Cool Drop, Leelo G, Emagagu, Sweli, JD, Morewish, As 4JerryP, Hillary Mirindi, MCO Jamrock and Kyro bring a vibrant mix of hip-hop, afrobeat, afro-fusion, RnB and trap reflecting Eswatini’s growing and diverse youth music scene.
Cool Drop blends hip-hop, afrobeat and contemporary sounds. He said, “Making it into the Firefly Top 10 is honestly a blessing and a big milestone for me. I’m grateful to everyone who has supported and believed in me. This moment is not just mine, it belongs to all of us.”
Leelo G, an afro-pop and indie singer from Mbabane, celebrates her identity through English and Siswati lyrics. She said, “Right now, I feel really grateful and proud. This is just the beginning and I still have more to prove.”
Emagagu, a trap trio representing Swati culture, said, “Being selected was shocking. We thank God for this opportunity to move forward.”
Sweli, who blends African rhythms with storytelling, said, “This opportunity will open doors to connect with creatives, industry professionals and a wider audience. Passion and persistence truly matter.”
JD, known for raw lyricism, said, “People from every walk of life voted for me. It pushes me to want to be a better artist.”
Morewish, combining amapiano, afrobeat and gospel, said, “Making it into the Firefly Top 10 makes me feel incredibly proud. I believe in myself and my abilities even more.”
As 4JerryP, a performer from Siteki, said, “Making it to the Firefly Top 10 is a dream come true. Hard work, passion and creativity can take you places.”
Hillary Mirindi, an alternative RnB artist born in the DRC and raised in Eswatini, said, “I’m so grateful to everyone who voted for me. This will be a great opportunity to perform in front of a large audience.”
MCO Jamrock, a rising afro-fusion talent, said, “Through Firefly I have been able to revive people’s hopes and beliefs. This competition is an amazing experience.”
Kyro, blending hip-hop, RnB and afro-pop, said, “This is my form of validation. Stay tuned because this journey is about to leave you on the edge of your seats.”
Fans are encouraged to vote for their favourites before 17 April.
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