MALIA Reveals ‘Touch’ After Unexpected Rise in Popularity in South Africa
Johannesburg – While the American neo-soul and R&B artist has yet to grace South African stages, she has cultivated a robust international following through streaming, with Johannesburg recognized as one of her top global cities.
Now, she’s officially reaching out to South African audiences with the debut of her new single, Touch.
“I’m truly grateful that South Africa embraced my music before I even had the chance to visit,” MALIA explains.
“It’s deeply meaningful to know that people have connected with my music organically and made it a part of their lives.”
You can listen to the single here:
MALIA carries a history of international recognition.
Alicia Keys personally selected her to record a tribute cover for the 20th anniversary of Songs In A Minor, which was featured on Alicia Keys’ Spotify profile.
She has toured alongside Corinne Bailey Rae and JMSN, opened for Syd, and is endorsed by prominent brands like Fender and Martin Guitars.
Her arrival comes at a moment when R&B is thriving in South Africa.
According to Spotify, South Africans streamed over 8.5 billion minutes of R&B in 2025, equating to more than 142 million hours of listening time.
MALIA’s increasing popularity in the country reflects the rising demand for alternative R&B and neo-soul among local fans.
Globally, MALIA has amassed over 100 million streams across her music catalog, attracting more than 500,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
In just a few months, she has gained around 70,000 TikTok followers from South Africa.
Touch examines the chemistry, vulnerability, and anticipation between two people getting to know each other.
Rich with subtle production and MALIA’s soulful voice, the song explores the quiet intensity of allowing a connection to grow organically.
“‘Touch’ is about experiencing attraction and giving yourself the chance to explore that connection,” she states.
“There’s curiosity, chemistry, and a desire to take your time with someone.
“I wanted the song to feel intimate and genuine while still allowing the listener to interpret it in their own way.”
Originally from the Pacific Northwest in the United States, MALIA has developed a distinctive niche through her mix of neo-soul, alternative R&B, and deeply personal songwriting.
Her latest album, If I’m Being Honest, released on July 3, 2026, explores themes of self-discovery, love, boundaries, and personal growth, continuing the emotionally honest storytelling that characterizes her music.
For MALIA, Touch represents more than just the launch of a new single.
It signifies the beginning of a connection with a country that embraced her music long before she had the chance to introduce herself.
The post After Building An Unexpected South African Following, MALIA Introduces ‘Touch’ appeared first on The Bulrushes.