Latoya Nontokozo Buthelezi, better known by his stage name Toya Delazy, is a South African singer, producer, pianist, dancer and performance artist from KwaZulu-Natal. She is famous for her unique music genre called Afro rave, which combines techno, drums, bass and beats with Zulu lyricism.
Delazy released her debut studio album, Dueincluding hit singles such as “Pump It On,” “Love Is in the Air,” “Are You Gonna Stay?,” “Heart” and “Memoriam.” Her innovative Afro rave sound has established her as a versatile and eclectic artist, seamlessly blending traditional African influences with contemporary electronic styles.
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- Full name: Latoya Nontokozo Buthelezi
- Stage name: Toya Delazy
- Date of birth: February 5, 1990
- Age: 34 years old
- Place of birth: KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Nationality: South African
- Profession: Singer, producer, pianist and dancer
- Height: Unknown
- Parent: Lethuxolo Buthelezi
- Siblings: 7
- Partner: Samantha
- Children: Unknown
- Relationship: Dating
- Net worth: $1 million to $5 million
Early life and education
Latoya Nontokozo Buthelezi was born on February 5, 1990 in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. She is the daughter of Lethuxolo Buthelezi. Although details about her father are unknown, Latoya grew up as one of eight children in her family. Her late mother, Lethuxolo, played an important role in her life.
Delazy attended Domino Servite School, graduating in 2009, and pursued a degree in jazz piano at Howard College in Durban. Her musical journey began at the age of 9 when she began playing classical piano and composing music, setting the stage for her musical career. She is ethnic Zulu and Christian.
Career
Toya Delazy’s Zulu heritage has deeply influenced her music. Beginning to study classical piano at age 9, she then switched to jazz composition during her college years. Her big break came in 2011 at the Africa Day concert in Newtown, Johannesburg, where she shared the stage with famous artists such as Baaba Maal, Habib Koite, and Tumi and the Volume.
Her debut studio album, Duereleased in 2012, received critical acclaim for its blend of electro hop, soul, jazz and a cappella. In 2014, she released her second album, Ascensionwith the lead single “Forbidden Fruit.” Delazy continues to push boundaries with his mixtapes Airsickness (2017) and her third album, No goods (2017), includes songs that address social issues such as gender inequality.
In 2021, Delazy released Afroave Vol. 1cementing her status as a pioneer of the Afro rave genre. She has also collaborated with global artists and producers, demonstrating her versatility.
Outside of music, Delazy served as a brand ambassador for Reebok Classics in 2011–2012 and launched a clothing line with Legit Clothing in 2013. She has also been dressed by famous South African designer Suzaan Heyns.
Awards and nominations
Prize:
- South African Music Awards (SAMA):
- Newcomer of the Year (2013)
- Best Pop Album (2013) for Due
- Outdoor Music Awards:
- Best International Song (2016) for “Forbidden Fruit”
Nomination:
- BET Awards:
- Best International Act: Africa (2013)
Social Media
- Instagram handle: @toyadelazy
- Facebook manager: Toya Delazy
- Twitter name: @ToyaDeIazy
Personal life
Toya Delazy is in a relationship with Samantha, a fellow artist and creative. The couple regularly shares moments together on social media to celebrate their love and partnership.
Cinema
Studio albums:
- Due (2012)
- Ascension (2014)
- No goods (2017)
- Afroave Vol. 1 (2021)
Mixtapes:
EPs and singles:
- Sheesh – EP (2023)
- Alien (2023)
- Deep rap music (2024)
Net worth
Toya Delazy has an estimated net worth between $1 million and $5 million. Her wealth comes from her successful music career and passionate Afro music, as well as lucrative brand endorsements.
