South Africa – March 2025 – With a sound that defies categorisation and a bold presence sporting the patented teal blue ‘moonmop’, Moonchild Sanelly is an artist who demands attention – and change.
GLOW, Spotify’s always-on platform that amplifies LGBTQIA+ artists through a dedicated hub and curated playlists, is proud to spotlight Moonchild Sanelly this month. Her performances are filled with high energy and an unapologetic approach to sexuality, exemplifying GLOW’s commitment to bold expression, championing diverse voices and ensuring that the cultural impact of the LGBTQIA+ community is recognised.
From collaborations with the biggest in local Kwaito, Hip Hop and Amapiano, to featuring in global chart toppers like ‘My Power‘, Moonchild Sanelly’s influence transcends music; she is an artistic visionary and cultural pioneer.
How does being a Spotify GLOW ambassador impact your connection with your audience, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community?
It contributes to making it louder – representation. My existence is representation so if I am the face where we need it the most, I am definitely the girl.
What does “representation” in the music industry mean to you, and how do you feel the GLOW programme contributes to it?
Music is a universal language that has no barrier because of connection and feeling. If I am using my platform, my privilege and my spotlight to shine a light in spaces where kids don’t feel ‘normal’ because of the spaces they are in, or where they don’t know who they are yet, when you look at me, you should know exactly what time it is.
We are bright, we are queer and everything is possible.
In what ways do you believe music can be a catalyst for positive change and increased visibility for LGBTQIA+ creators?
As a musician, music makes me feel like I’m in the right house because I have the power to change the narrative, influence better movement and create change.
As a musician, I am like a politician, I can use my platform, my shine and all my access to make positive change, therefore, I am the White House!
Could you share a specific moment or experience as a GLOW ambassador that has been particularly meaningful to you?
The fact that the show must go on! I was at Constitution Hill, my period came and I was wearing a nude, see-through costume. That moment for me – before you could say ‘the show must go on’ – was the show going on!
Even though there was no security and people were jumping over fences because they sexualise my existence, I still finished my full set with blood in between my thighs, in a see-through costume, while dancing upside down.
That moment meant something because I had a decision to make and blood was never going to be the reason I die.
What message would you give to aspiring LGBTQIA+ artists who are looking to make their mark on the music scene?
They fear you, don’t fear them. Teach them, be you. There is no expiry date to your dreams.
Rather be loved and rejected for who you are, so that when you are in your era , you won’t question why people are around you because you were never trying to play someone that already exists. There is only you – one you – everybody else is taken. Don’t stop.
Discover the This is Moonchild Sanelly playlist, or listen to her new album Full Moon, to learn more about her sound and bask in the strong reminder that individuality is freedom.