Cape Town based ancestral contemporary hip hop musician, Bvse, just released his 4th studio project titled “TLC Prelude: Pretty Girl Package” on ALL digital streaming platforms.
This release, which is a prelude to his highly anticipated full body project “The Lotus Carnation” is an appreciation piece for each and every woman who played a role in shaping who he is. The project features the Xhosa Trap originator King Joe (Johanneburg)(Track 3) and one of Cape Town’s most influential artists, Ta Eish (Cape Town)(Track 5)
Listen To Full Project on Spotify
In Bvse’s quest to articulate the love and balance he found in the turmoil in his surroundings, he often finds him in an essential and constant cycle of holistic replenishment. In this body of work, Bvse realizes the essence of both the love and turmoil he has experienced. The turmoil was necessary for growth, as it is in the growth. As for love, that is all he breathes.
The way he projects his voice, he resonates deep within one’s heart and soul, this is what sets Bvse apart. It is ALL from the heart, both ends of the spectrum. He expresses his spirit and ego equally, utterly and unapologetically. Bvse is always intentional with the selection of the instrumentation, with the TLC series, his aim is to express the balance in his music and as his famous quote says “The instrumentals are coordinates to the songs’ ‘. The project wouldn’t have come to life if it weren’t for the producers; Bandz (Johannesburg), Midnight Hubris (Cape Town), Kobi!(Cape Town), Master Jay(Cape Town), Pik’kaso (Kwazulu Natal) as well as X-Artiste (Cape Town)
Okuhle Ntshona, artistically referred to as Bvse (pronounced Base), a Mdantsane born, Bhiso raised artist who is now based in Cape Town, South Africa. Bvse understood how being an artist has more of a deeper connection and so began his journey of connecting to his spirituality through the music, With his mystical and ancestral driven approach to his music, his songs have developed to become “feelings”.
Growing up around Jazz music, his dad’s musical taste has had an immense influence on how he first consumed music. The shift to RnB music was then incited by his older brother, who then had a greater impact in Okuhle willingly listening to tribal house music.
His interaction with Hip Hop only occurred at a later stage of his life where that along with his musically rich childhood prompted him to record his first Hip Hop single.
Everything changed in 2017 when he decided to go back to his music career after pausing it due to his academic duties. This is when his entrance to Varsity became a space of learning and living that allowed him to truly express himself and his neo spiritual character
Jovi, arguably the best rapper in Cameroon has been cooking something for his fans for a while now, but we are excited to announce to you that he has finally dropped his much-anticipated number titled – J’achète
The song was produced by Le Monstre and Directed by Ndukong for February 16th Pictures.
The “Johnnie Walker Keep Walking Anthem” is already gathering massive love and momentum in Cameroon as it is the first song from the rapper this year and in a long time.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-vYzcHh-JQ
Lyrics [Verse 1] Comot ma dang trowey album no promo I love my bro and ei love no homo [?] Man wey hold ntoh nodey waste time for ndomo Men dem want chop wey dey no even boulo Level nodey change dis rap so no be kolo Grief nodey tell man nothing nodey molo For sika say today no dey wait tomorrow How many bag I don puttan for ground Sep for your end dem know say man na grand You don di talk, I dey waite make you land I no fit rap if de beat nodey bang [?] For inside this mboko all man know ma rang The way TV show mboko no be trend The thing de thing di go mboko no go end [Chorus] Si c’est Jhonny Môlà j’achète Toujour devent toujuor en-tête Depuis l’époque de la cassette Je ne fais pas dans la défaite Y a floppes des divers sur le net Mon téléphone c’est la tablette La gô le ba-hat sur le net Mais elle me yamô en cachette Chana dey for my corner No be luck gimme pawa For di mboko na hô-ha You wan njoka you njoka International baller Gimme Eurro and Dollar Gimme da Jhonny walker [Chorus 2] On tir dans la journée on travaille la nuit Loco est est dur et tu connais la suite Quand tu vois les blèmes môlà il faut fuir Faut pala maintenant ça peut mal finir Status légendaire c’est ça que je vise Ne crois pas j’étais fait pour le show bizz Du Nord au Sud au pays c’est la crise Y a toujours un way qui nous empêche de brisse Si tu veux win c’est moi que tu mise Faut pas ya ce que le mboutous te disent On veut te djausse c’est que ooh je maîtrise Avec l’amour le démon se deguise Jovi est fini tu dis ça qui ? Faut nous montrer tout ce que t’as acquis Les gars me font lappe je garde le sourire Mais tu know dans la vie c’est choses qui arrivent [Chorus] Si c’est Jhonny Môlà j’achète Toujour devent toujuor en-tête Depuis l’époque de la cassette Je ne fais pas dans la défaite Y a floppes des divers sur le net Mon téléphone c’est la tablette La gô le ba-hat sur le net Mais elle me yamô en cachette Chana dey for my corner No be luck gimme pawa For di mboko na hô-ha You wan njoka you njoka International baller Gimme Eurro and Dollar Gimme da Jhonny walker
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Have you found this article insightful? Then kindly share and comment your opinions in the comment section below. Thanks.
Daniji Emmanuel is a content writer who has written hundreds of articles on various niches focusing on Entertainment topics. He’s also published interviews, conducted research and written opinions on the creative industry. BigDan, fondly called, also consults and handles brand promotions for people and organizations in the creative industry.
In our usual tradition, we bring you the Top 10 Underground Hip Hop Videos for Week 4.
Views, Retweets and Reactions/Engagements solely judge the Top 10 Underground Hip Hop Videos of the week.
Mic Daille drops to the 10thspot this week as New Entry Rap Revolutionaries Cypher climbs to the 8thon the chart.
This week, Rebel Wav crashes from Number 3 to Number 9 on the chart. What a downslide.
The number 1 and 2 positions remain unchanged.
Check Out The Chart Below for more…
10. Mic Daille – One Man –
9. Rebelwav – Arrival
8. Rap Revolutionaries Cypher Vol 3
https://youtu.be/Q_V_1y0BlfY
7. Pizzo Da Lp – Africa –
6. Tyoonz – ZONE (feat. Elzino Szn x SMRT x Ely Jakez) –
5. J. ICE x Bionic the soul king – You can’t breathe (feat. Psalmurai) –
4. Billy Dolomite – Deserve More (feat. Avid The Lyrikal) –
3. Gotheeq – Haka Kowai –
2. President Zik – Switching Scenes (feat. Hotyce) –
1. Fozter.YP – Icho (feat. Kingrexxie) –
Don’t miss out on the Top 10 Underground Hip Hop Videos for next week.
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Have you found this article insightful? Then kindly share and comment your opinions in the comment section below. Thanks.
Daniji Emmanuel is a content writer who has written hundreds of articles on various niches focusing on Entertainment topics. He’s also published interviews, conducted research and written opinions on the creative industry. BigDan, fondly called, also consults and handles brand promotions for people and organizations in the creative industry.
Ahead of his memorial which will be held this afternoon at the Sandton Convention Center, AKA’s team released his first posthumous single, Company, alongside frequent collaborator, Nigerian musician, Kiddominant.
The song comes just days following Forbes’ death this past weekend and his family, with the help of his team, plan to follow through with his wishes for the rollout of his forthcoming album. It was announced yesterday that the rapper’s fifth studio album, Mass Country, is set for release as originally planned, on the 24th of February.
Just some weeks before his passing, AKA released Prada with long-time friend and mentor, Khuli Chana. The two had worked together numerous times before on songs such as Bang, I Want It All (featuring PRO), as well as Hape Le Hape pt.1.
Today, the megacy get to hear the latest single ahead of the Mass Country release. Company is reminiscent of Fela In Versace, the two men’s previous song together from AKA’s album, Touch My Blood.
You know the phrase, “2 is company, 3 is a crowd”? Well, AKA and Kiddo need even more ladies to keep them company. “4 girls not enough for me, 5 girls not enough for me, 6 girls not enough for me.”
In the song, AKA flexes his wealth with plans to have his foot on everyone’s neck. He talks luxury clothing, expensive trips, and briefcases filled with “rands or dollars.” The rapper also pays his respects to Dj Sumbody who was tragically killed in late November 2022.
Company was met with mixed emotions, both of enjoyment and delight over the amazing piece of work, but also feelings of sadness with many people still struggling to register the rapper’s death. As many people continue to share memories and mourn the beloved musician, former collaborator, Burna Boy had some things to say.
The two artists had a falling out some years back which lead to an ongoing feud that appears to never have been resolved.
Don’t forget to live stream the memorial service later at 3 pm CAT on the akaworldwide YouTube channel. AKA will have a private funeral on Saturday, 18 February, attended by his loved ones and those closest to him.
YoungstaCpt is back in the booth to drop bombs and represent his city. The Cape Crusader has just released a new single, his second following Own 2023, and this time takes it back home by showing love to a fellow Cape Townian.
YoungstaCpt – Benni McCarthy art cover
Back in July of 2022, former AmaZulu coach and South African football legend, Benni McCarthy was appointed as the first team coach for Manchester United. The news was followed by praise and congratulatory messages from football fans, as well as shock from those who doubted the star.
YoungstaCpt sees a bit of himself in Benni – someone who has for a long time had their credibility and talent questioned, and their place in the industry contested. The Cape Town emcee addresses the naysayers on a drill beat accompanied by Shaney Jay.
I’m playing the end game, waging a vengeance, my rapping making them marvel.
Throughout the track, YoungstaCpt references some major highlights in his and Benni’s careers. “He’s a GOAT, check his whole approach, from the player to the coach,” he raps.
The song was released in memory of AKA, who tragically died this past weekend in Durban. The two rappers had a good relationship, both having come from Cape Town, and Young Kaapstad took the time to send tributes to the fallen rapper on his social media pages. “You were always there watching me. I pray Allah watches over you and grants you eternal paradise.”
Nigeria, in few days from days away from now, would be faced with the decision of electing a new leader to rule the country and various offices in the country. The country has undergone various challenges and triumphs, from the thirty months of civil war to the numerous military coups, and the current over twenty years of uninterrupted democratic government. Just like every nation, Nigeria has grappled with problems, and music artists have always released tracks to call the government to act. These artists have been known to correct, criticize and praise the government when necessary.
Today, we highlight two songs 9ice, a Nigerian musician sang about the ills in the country. He is known for his powerful use of the Yoruba language in his music as well as his proverbial lyrics and unique style of delivery.
Without wasting much of your time, below are the two songs.
“Pete Pete” by 9ice and Asa
Off his Tradition album, 9ice called on music legend, Asa, for a social-driven song. As of 2009, both artists were already dominant figures in the music industry. The topic of the song was unexpected but germane. Over a mellow guitar and drum roll, Asa and 9ice sing about the state of the nation, urging the citizens, youths especially, to rise to the occasion. The song starts with a reflection of what it was like in 1960 when Nigeria gained independence from Great Britain, before shifting to the present state of the economy. Asa asks a lot of questions about the past and present administrations in Nigeria.
“Make Dem Talk” by 2shotz and 9ice
9ice has always been an advocate of the people, right from when he started till now. In this song, released in 2007, both artists sing about the economy and police brutality. They end most of the lines with the refrain, “Make Dem Talk.” 2Shotz’s two verses centre on his Lagos experiences, his constant battle with louts, and the police. 9ice’s last verse is a call to action, a plea to the citizens to be proactive in the face of lingering problems. This song might be old, but the message remains timely.
About 9ice
9ice, born AlexanderAbolore Adegbola Akande (born 17 January 1980), is a Nigerian musician, songwriter and dancer. He is known for his powerful use of the Yoruba language in his music as well as his proverbial lyrics and unique style of delivery.
9ice was born into a polygamous home of five wives and nine children, in Ogbomosho, Oyo State in Western Nigeria. He grew up in the Shomolu Bariga suburbs of Lagos. He dreamed of being a musician. His parents discovered his singing talent and decided to allow him to become a musician.
In 1996, 9ice recorded his first demo, titled “Risi de Alagbaja“, but it was not until 2000 that he released his first official solo song, “Little Money“.
In 2008, 9ice released the single “Gongo Aso“. With the song gaining popularity, 9ice was asked to perform at the Nelson Mandela 90th Birthday Tribute concert in London in June 2008. He went on to win the Best Hip Hop Artist of the Year at the MTV Africa Music Awards.
“Gongo Aso” won him four further awards at the 2009 edition of the Hip Hop World Awards held at the International Conference Centre, Abuja: Album of the Year, Artiste of the Year, Song of the Year and Best Rap in Pop Album.
In 2020, 9ice released another album, Tip of the Iceberg: Episode 1.
He is the founder and CEO of the record label Alapomeji Ancestral Record.
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Have you found this article insightful? Then kindly share and comment your opinions in the comment section below. Thanks.
Daniji Emmanuel is a content writer who has written hundreds of articles on various niches focusing on Entertainment topics. He’s also published interviews, conducted research and written opinions on the creative industry. BigDan, fondly called, also consults and handles brand promotions for people and organizations in the creative industry.
The family of the late rapper, Kiernan AKA Forbes, has released a statement to his fans and the general public regarding his much-anticipated album, Mass Country.
As stated in the press release, the Forbes family have decided to continue with the posthumous release of their son’s album, set to go out on the 24th of February, as originally planned by the rapper and his team. Mass Country, which is to be AKA’s 5th album, was highly anticipated by fans who have been eagerly waiting on the album since the initial announcement.
In the last two years, Mass Country has become AKA’s entire world. The Supa Mega constantly kept the album release momentum and anticipation high.
The rapper was shot and killed this past weekend outside of a restaurant in Durban. Along with him was tastemaker and chef, Tebello Tibz Motsoane, who also tragically lost his life on that fateful night. While many still try to register the loss, fans and supporters of AKA are still in disbelief at the tragedy.
An outpour of tributes have gone out since the news was confirmed and with those are countless speculations on how the night unfolded, what the motive may have been, and who is to be held responsible.
A known figure in the South African entertainment industry, Nota Baloyi, has spearheaded the narrative that AKA’s close companions need to be questioned about what happened the night of February 10th, to clear their names and shed some light.
Nota has bid his voice on the AKA assassination."You can't convince us that you sent a global superstar to a club that's been closed, with less than 24 hour promo" implying the whole AKA crew was in on it! pic.twitter.com/4Y3GYaoP8B
As many know Nota to shake the table on countless occasions, industry mates have spoken up against his behavior, calling him out on his false statements, and the danger they may bring to those closest to the late rapper.
As far as I’m concerned anybody spreading conspiracies is PURPOSEFULLY deviating attention from the REAL killers and is essentially defeating the ends of justice by trying to muddy the FACTS. What’s done in the dark ALWAYS comes to light!!!!
A memorial for AKA will be held on Friday, 17 February 2023, at the Sandton Convention Center at 15:00 – a live stream of the memorial will be made available for those unable to attend. Kiernan will be laid to rest in a private provincial funeral the following day on Saturday, 18 February 2023. Limited tickets to attend the rapper’s memorial were issued out to the public and have now become unavailable, however, you may still stream the proceedings on the akaworldwide YouTube page.
Fans can look forward to his latest single titled Company alongside Nigerian musician, Kiddominant set for release this Friday, 17 February. The two have previously worked together, notably on AKA’s hit single, Fela In Versace from Touch My Blood.
Our hearts continue to go out to AKA’s loved ones, the megacy, the country at la1rge, and beyond. Kiernan was a remarkable musician who touched many hearts with his talent and charisma. He will be sorely missed and his legacy will continue to live on through the music he left with us. Long live, Supa Mega, live long.
While still basking in the success of his and PDotO’s Lost Diamonds 2, Blaklez proves that complacency doesn’t pay the bills.
The rap Steve Biko is on a musical run, having offered feature assistance on Imp Da Don’s Workin‘ just last month, as well as A.O.K’s latest single, Changes. Keeping the momentum going, the Cap City OG brings us a contemplative number where he reflects on his life, his grandmother’s teachings, and his journey to self-discovery.
There’s no point in trying to find me when I’m trying to find me. Big dog, been through the wringer so don’t you try me.
I Speak Life echoes Lez’ woes from A Broken Man’s Dream, his 2015 masterpiece that touched hearts and helped patch his own. Much like in that album, Blaklez makes mention of how his life changed since his daughter Kopano was born.
“2013 had a baby, it multiplied me. Had to beat the deadbeatness that was inside me.”
The song is accompanied by an animated visual, courtesy of Flo Flaulis, where Lez is seated on a couch, blunt in hand as he recites his lyrics.
Though the track runs for just a minute and a half, it was enough to have supporters of the skilled and prolific emcee cheer him on and quote “Aah yes!” in amazement.
I don’t know about you but something tells me there’s more of this track than what Blaklez shared with us. Who knows, there might even be a project on the horizon. Needless to say, we’ll be bumping this new tune until he gives us some more music to feast on but in the meantime, let’s let him cook.
Listen to I Speak Life below and tell us what you think:
One of our favorite love stories happened just a few years ago between rapper, Khuli Chana, and his wife, DJ and presenter, Lamiez Holworthy. The two reportedly met at an event back in 2018, both booked to perform, and have been inseparable since.
Following the couple on social media, you cannot help but admire the love they have for each other as well as the work they put into their careers. Both Khuli and Lamiez are philanthropists and with the help of their respective foundations, the Lamiez Holworthy Foundation and Khuli Chana Foundation, they help families and communities in need.
With all that love and support they give out, the Morules never forget to pour into each other in whatever way possible.
Khuli and Lamiez constantly show their love and appreciation for one another, showering each other with gifts and tokens of their love and admiration. Lamiez bought her hubby his first Rolex which he couldn’t help but show off and brag about, most recently in AKA’s “Prada” where Khuli flexed his grootman muscles and let out a few humble brags.
Life begins at 40, wifey just bought me my first Roley. I’m saying ‘goodbye’ to the old me, bophelo bo soft, ha ke sole.
With these two, they spare no expense on the things they love. They’re both avid art collectors with a growing reserve of fine art pieces.
They travel regularly to various parts of the world. Their last notable vacation was Italy where they explored the country, admired the art, and delved into some retail therapy.
Both have a love for fashion with unique individual styles, including Lamiez’ collection of eccentric designer handbags.
Khuli once shared that Lamiez had a great impact on his comeback. He’s hungrier and more determined to inspire, motivate, and provide for his growing family.
Last year, the couple revealed that they were expecting a new addition to their family. The news was followed by an intimate gender reveal and the signing of their marriage license.
Today, my surname officially changed. Ke Nna (I am) Lamiez Holworthy-Morule. Ngwetsi ya Bakwena ba ga Mogopa.
We wish the couple a happy and safe pregnancy. Pula!
And to all, may you have a happy Valentine’s Day with an abundance of love and admiration. Don’t forget to check out our playlist of some of our favorite love songs from all around the country.
Lungi Naidoo returns to the music scene with her latest EP courage. The release of courage sees Lungi return after what has been a lengthy spell away from music dating back to 2016 when she released “Black Diamond”. This time around we get a more authentic and honest Lungi.
After having to deal with personal and career problems Lungi decided to return to music where she could fully express herself in the only way she knew how. In her latest body of work, we come to learn that Lungi has undergone a complete transformation from when we last heard anything from her musically.
With a career that spans 20 years, Lungi Naidoo has at times tried to fit in with what the industry wanted her to be. This however didn’t lead to the desired destination that she had hoped for. Instead, she oftentimes felt like giving up and was close to not making music. Her love for music had seemed to vanish and left her stranded seemingly not knowing who she truly is.
The release of courage serves as a restoration to Lungi Naidoo- the person. Everything from the cover art to the title was carefully crafted to make sure that her message was brought across. A message of hope and a reminder that we are enough. No industry should ever take away the happiness that comes from within ourselves.
Celebrating her Africanism and heritage Lungi’s courage ep runs for a total of 17 minutes. The EP has 6 songs that all seemingly flow effortlessly into each other. The confidence in Lungi’s music accurately shows the growth she has gone through while being away from the spotlight.
COURAGE not only shows Lungi’s personal growth but also her continuous growth as an artist with this being her fourth project overall. Lungi Naidoo has used her talents to grace the world of dance, RnB as well as house music. The release of courage sees Lungi step into the world of Afropop where she blends her unique voice and infuses her love for RnB with a genre that is on the rise globally.
This interview has been lightly edited for the purpose of clarity and context.
Daniel: In your recent interview with Apple Music, you said that you got to a point where you felt worried and scared because things weren’t going your way with your music releases at the time. Talk to me about those emotions and has anything changed now that you released your latest body of work ‘courage’?
Lungi Naidoo: I went through a lot in the industry and I think the emotions that I was feeling were a lot. At a stage, I felt defeated because I have been in the industry for so long and I have been trying and I have worked with some of the biggest artists, but it just felt like my career was not catapulting to the next level that it needed to. So obviously frustration was one of the things that I went through also depression and just unrest mentally. I think that with your question being how do I feel with this new project. I feel some sort of relief; I was scared though putting out. I was feeling very scared. Are you guys going to like it, are you guys going to want to interview me? I think with every interview that I do with whatever media outlet who reaches out. For me it’s a confirmation that I’m on the right path, the energy that I have put out now with this EP is being received and people are enjoying the music which is my biggest fear that people will not gravitate towards the music because it is different to what I have done before. But to answer your question I feel some sort of relief with this EP.
Do you think that having a sense of emotional intelligence has helped you so far in your career?
A sense of emotional intelligence is that what you said? That is a good question. That is a first! Emotional intelligence? Do I come off as if I have emotional intelligence? Emotional intelligence that’s interesting. I don’t know how to answer that question, but I am going to think about it because I think that is very profound. It does take a level of control of your emotions, it does take a level of understanding how you feeling and I think I have just never heard the term emotional intelligence and I’m going to own that shit. I am so going to own it, it took a level of emotional intelligence for me to pull my ass out of the dip and just face all my fears! Yeah, so I think it does take a level of emotional intelligence as you would say, or just understanding that if you going through something and you are sad about something or you are hurt or depressed you’ve got to one hundred percent go through it. You’ve got to understand why you are there and why you feeling this way and if anything, figure out, how do you solve the problem and how to get out of it, and what you have learned out of it. You’re right, it does take a level of understanding which is then intelligence or it is a knowledge of understanding that I am going through something for a specific reason and purpose.
“more girls are becoming sound engineers. More girls are working as producers in recording studios and it’s a movement that is going to take time, but we are going in that direction, and being a record label executive myself I feel like that is the role that I am playing in the music industry”
Lungi Naidoo
The music industry for years has downplayed the important role women play in a largely male-dominated industry. With your EP courage, you make it your mission to speak about woman empowerment and self-empowerment. Can you tell me why you felt that now would be the ideal time?
Women empowerment is important to me because I have been in this industry and came into it as a very young girl. I was in my early twenties and I watched the industry still being very much male-dominated. But we as women are starting to realize that we need more female engineers in the industry, we need more production teams to vary from a balance between male to female. Artists need to stand and not be afraid as women to head record labels. From the ground up even to the technical team that is performing live are generally men and I think now at this time we are in, more girls are becoming sound engineers. More girls are working as producers in recording studios and it’s a movement that is going to take time, but we are going in that direction, and being a record label executive myself I feel like that is the role that I am playing in the music industry, it is one thing for me to keep saying “we need to empower other women, we need to do this.” but I am not doing anything myself, I am just an artist. Even though my record label is still very new and small but I am hoping and praying that in the long run, I will be able to sign and empower other artists whether male or female.
“With us celebrating African music, I feel like Africa is ‘it’. We are the ‘it’ kids right now, the platform is being set for the younger generation of artists to flourish. The world is looking at Africa and the talent that is coming out of this beautiful country. Whether you are from Ghana, Nigeria, or South Africa the platform is getting created now for future generations to be bigger than anyone is right now”
Lungi Naidoo
The EP is titled courage. What inspired the name of the project?
What inspired courage is your first question? I would say various trials and tribulations that I have experienced in the music industry. From having to pull myself out of a pit hole and having those emotionally intelligent conversations with myself. That is basically why I titled it “Courage”. We had done the music, and we were done with the EP. They kept saying, “Lungi we need a title.” We cannot even do anything if you’re not giving us a title for your EP. And I kept thinking what am I going to say? The team suggested okay then just choose one of the songs and just make that the title, but I asked for some time because I needed it to be something that would be profound. It needed to be something that would tell a story on its own without having to listen to the music and it does. When I had a conversation with my partner as well as my team I kept saying it’s taken me a lot of courage to do this. You know I am scared but I have had to be courageous to do this and they would say the same to me. One day we were like okay, we use the word “courage” a lot around this Ep and that was the moment that it was like snap okay… Courage it is, it speaks to every song it speaks to me in a personal capacity, it speaks to me as an artist. We titled it courage because it was not easy for me to snap out of the space of feeling like a failure as an artist. Doubting myself as a musician and taking a chance again in the music industry.
Do you think that doubting yourself is just a part of the growing pains as an artist?
I don’t know actually because most of the time artists don’t speak about it. Being in the industry for as long as I have and with most of my friends being musicians and artists we all go through it. You go through seasons. We all go through seasons in the industry where you are broke. Where you are performing and not getting paid. Where you are not getting gigs and you have rent to pay. Where you spend so much money creating an album of an EP and radio won’t play it. So it’s all of these emotions that just stack up and artists are still human beings, at the end of the day with emotions. So imagine building a shop and nobody comes, and that’s how it feels. Do you know what I mean? That is how it feels sometimes because when we put out music it is us sharing a piece of ourselves, the vulnerability of are they going to like it, will they play it? We all do go through highs and lows as artists in the industry. I sure as hell have.
Courage is classified as Afro-pop, with your unique voice and skill set, I’m sure that you could have taken this project into any direction or genre. Why Afro-pop?
I’ve realized that all of my albums have different sounds. I didn’t do it deliberately though. I started with RnB, then I went to pop from there it was house and dance now its afro-pop. I said in an interview recently that I think I’m a mess because I’m so mixed masala. My brain cannot just do one thing all the time, I honestly want to try and do different things all the time. I was not aware that I was doing that in my music career. The thing is it wasn’t a case of oh RnB isn’t working let’s try house or house isn’t working let’s go into Afro-pop. It was never a conscious choice, even with house the only reason why I did house in the first place was that Black Coffee had asked me to be featured on his album. Then I found that I liked making house music because it sounds nice. I like to challenge myself, but if you listen to my entire discography you can hear the underlying influences of RnB music, and the way I write music is still suited to RnB.
African Music is a trending topic at the moment, being an artist who is proud of her African heritage. Where do you see yourself in the grander scheme of things? And how do you plan on using your platform to make sure that African music gets the proper recognition it rightfully deserves?
Being proud that’s good that you used that word in the question. I have a rich heritage that I am extremely proud of. I am Indian and Zulu. My father is Indian while my mother is Zulu and my grandfather was from Mozambique. All these three cultures and diversities are within me, my ancestors live within me and are with me all the time. From a young age, I have been taught to respect my ancestors from my Indian side and African side, I’m not confused by any stretch of the imagination and that’s why I wanted to celebrate my heritage with this ep release. With us celebrating African music, I feel like Africa is ‘it’. We are the ‘it’ kids right now, the platform is being set for the younger generation of artists to flourish. The world is looking at Africa and the talent that is coming out of this beautiful country. Whether you are from Ghana, Nigeria, or South Africa the platform is getting created now for future generations to be bigger than anyone is right now. It’s amazing to be a part of it. As Africans, we are a force to be reckoned with. I mean Amapiano a genre that originated out of South Africa is becoming a global genre right now. It’s something we should be proud of.
Growing up in Durban, traveling to Johannesburg for music, and now being in Cape Town how has meeting so many different people influenced you?
I was born and raised in Durban. I left for Johannesburg to follow my dream of making music. As some would say leaving a small town for the big city, my entire adult life was formed in Johannesburg. The inspiration that Johannesburg gave me was to hustle my way to where I want to be. Everyone was just so welcoming; they didn’t care what colour you were or where you initially come from it was all about the hustle. Even if I didn’t accomplish all of my goals it taught me to never give up. Being in Cape Town now has humbled me because I am grown. The city is making me grounded as a human being.
Musically a lot has changed since you first released Black Diamond till now. Struggles with labels… Can you speak to me about your time at the label and your thoughts on independence within the music industry?
I’m not going to talk about the time at the label… Because uhm no! However, I will talk to you about being independent. I was independent before going to Universal. I released my first and second albums independently. I think that it is very hard when you’re an independent artist because of the volume of work that needs to be done. There is a lot of doors that aren’t opened to independent artists, very important doors that lead to success which major label artists achieve. Then there’s the issue of money. Everything needs to come out of your pocket if you want it done properly. I mean you could call in favours but those favours can only get you so far. If you want to be at the level of a professional recording artist, then you need to pay for PR and studio time which isn’t cheap by the way. Quality of music is so important, you want an experienced sound engineer who knows what they’re doing and that experience comes at a cost. At the end of the day, I can’t explain how it feels to create and release this ep knowing that I own my masters. Before it didn’t mean that much but after the situation, with the label, I realized the importance of owning my master recordings. It does hurt knowing that whatever I created with the label is not mine. It’s a realization that those songs aren’t mine forever. Forever! Now being independent again, I’ve learned that it doesn’t matter what offer comes on the table, if the contract says I don’t own my master recordings then I’m not signing. Because what’s the use of me putting out music if I don’t own it? I want to make sure that whatever I create benefits my kids one day when I’m old and grey. The reason for staying independent is the fact that I own my masters!
You seem very made up with your new release, do you finally feel that courage is a fair reflection of yourself as an artist and where you’re at in life?
Absolutely, I am living a very courageous life. What the hell am I doing in Cape Town?! My things are in Johannesburg and my family is in Kwa-Zulu Natal. But I’m living this courageous life down here in Cape Town! I’m getting used to the lifestyle and city as well as going through change. I am happy that the ep encourages me in this way.
Amapiano, the genre on everyone’s lips currently. Duro, a song off your ep was remixed into an Amapiano version, how proud are you of this song and what are your expectations going forward with future releases?
I am more proud of Ameen Harron than I am of the actual song. I am proud of what he did. I think Ameen thinks I lost my mind but I don’t know anything about Amapiano. All I know is that it sounds good and is infectious, it makes you want to dance even though you can’t dance. What Ameen did was so amazing he took my song and elevated it to another space. I am so proud of his work because I didn’t give him any direction. I just gave him the song and he worked wonders. I can’t wait for Ameen to get the credit he deserves because he is so talented.
Lastly what final remarks would you like to leave with your fans after releasing courage?
My message would be that every single person is important. For every single person who has a form of art, your art needs to be heard and seen. Do not let anyone or anything shift you away from your God-given purpose, no matter the size of your audience. Do not try and fight your purpose and your journey, you have been given that for a reason. Remember it’s okay if you hit speed bumps along the road, just get up and get going. You are enough.
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