Bremersdorp’s Star: How Amarii Channels Home and Heart in Music Through Uniquely Fusing Pink Hues and Heartstrings with Trap Beats
My first encounter with Amarii’s music dates back to 2019. I vividly recall the moment when my close friend, the rapper Trent Nicks, introduced me to the song “Gucci Bandana”- a song which pays homage to Soulja Boy’s 2009 hit “Gucci Bandana” which features Gucci Mane. At that time, my ears were not yet attuned to the pulse of local music. Though I appreciated the track’s infectious energy and understood its popularity, it did not move me in a way that would make me delve deeper into Eswatini’s music scene. Fast forward to 2021, and there I was, scrolling through Twitter—now known as X—when I noticed a wave of tweets about Amarii’s new project, “Oxytocin”. Having recently subscribed to Spotify, I wasted no time diving into the project. I was immediately struck by the sheer artistry displayed on tracks like “FRVR,” “I Don’t Care ” and “Cold Heart.” If asked why I began listening to local Eswatini Hip Hop with keen interest, I would credit Amarii’s “Oxytocin” as the catalyst.
Oxytocin
In September 2021, Amarii, born Lindelani Thando Simelane, released his project, “Oxytocin”. This project captured the hearts of many Emaswati and earned a nomination at the 2021 MTN SWAMAs. Through “Oxytocin”, Amarii grapples with the complexities of young love, weaving his lyrical explorations through the rich soundscapes of trap-soul. I find it cleverly amusing that Amarii titled his project “Oxytocin” , a nod to the “love hormone” released during moments of intimacy and connection. This choice is particularly fitting, as oxytocin plays a crucial role in forming deep and emotional bonds, mirroring the themes of love and relationships explored throughout the project. In Amarii’s project “Oxytocin,” the hormone’s significance is mirrored in the themes of his songs, which explore the complexities of young love, attachment, and the emotional highs and lows that come with it. The tracks, many of which are inspired by trap-soul, delve into the deep, often conflicting feelings associated with love, much like the hormone itself fosters intense emotional bonds. The project, therefore, serves as a musical exploration of these bonds and the impact they have on one’s emotional and psychological state.
From the very first song titled “Oxy”, Amarii confides to a friend about his feelings for a love interest, despite knowing she’s in another relationship- a situation many can relate to. He vividly describes this love interest and reflects on the various women in his life, coming across as a true rolling stone . Songs like “NXT2ME” unveil a more tender facet of Amarii’s character, where he expresses his romantic longing to be deeply intertwined in his love interest’s life. With a touch of bravado, he compares himself to her current partner, suggesting that he is the better choice -embodying the confident flair characteristic of a Leo. However, it’s “FRVR” that stands out as perhaps the most poignant song on the project, capturing the ache of unrequited love. Here, Amarii lays bare the uncertainty of a love interest wavering on the edge of commitment—a sentiment that resonates profoundly with me, having navigated similar situationships myself . “’Cold Heart” is another standout track from “Oxytocin”, where Amarii confronts the pain of a toxic relationship. The title is fitting, as he channels his heartbreak through a mix of anger and indifference, expressing his emotions with a detached and guarded tone. Rather than seeking closure, he nonchalantly vows to live a better life without her, embodying the resilience of a ‘cold heart’ determined to move forward.
Two years later, Amarii’s journey had only grown more illustrious. After releasing a three-track EP titled “And So Say All Of Us” on his birthday, dropping several music videos on YouTube, and launching a music docu series titled “Welcome to Forever”, he graced the stages, opening for Cassper Nyovest and Nasty C during their African Throne Concert. The singles he released in 2023—”Accusations,” “Thought It Was Love,” “Jump,” “Never Be A Thing,” “No Debate,” and “Welcome to My Life”—were merely appetizers for what was to come: his project, “From Bremersdorp With Love”, which set the streets ablaze in December 2023.
From Bremersdorp With Love
“From Bremersdorp With Love” is a love letter to the city that nurtured him, celebrating its culture and spirit through the alchemy of music. This project is arguably his most special to date, as it sees Amarii rapping about a subject close to his heart—his hometown, Manzini. Given the etymology of his stage name, “Amarii,” which is Latin for love and a translation of his second name “Thando,” it’s no surprise that he approaches the project with such passion and affection.
On “From Bremersdorp With Love”, Amarii takes a different path from his previous work on “Oxytocin”- even though the motif of “love” is the same, this time the rapper expresses his love for his city. This EP sees him expressing his unyielding determination to succeed beyond his city, all while declaring his undying love for “Manzini”, formerly known as “Bremersdorp” during colonial times. The rapper exudes both revelry and valor throughout the 27 minutes of the project, his lyrical confidence paired with alluring trap beats that make it impossible not to nod along unconsciously, adding an effortless layer of cohesion to the entire body of work.
Track by Track analysis
23 (Intro)
The opening track of “From Bremersdorp With Love” immediately draws listeners into a captivating introspective journey through Amarii’s life and musical evolution. From his humble beginnings in Bremersdorp, he shares his aspirations of leaving an indelible mark on the global music scene, all while keeping his city close to his heart. “I bring the fire to my city. It gets cold every time I take a break, I swear I put that on my soul,” he raps, declaring himself as the torchbearer of his hometown’s music scene. The skit that precedes the song perfectly encapsulates this sentiment, with Amarii’s smooth delivery and lyrical finesse on full display.
Welcome 2 My Life
The subsequent track, “Welcome 2 My Life,” shifts to a more gritty, vivid portrayal, featuring drill and trap-inspired soundscapes. It offers a glimpse into Amarii’s life growing up in Manzini, a city known for its vibrant yet sometimes perilous energy. “Welcome to my city where hustle and time pays, we grew up on the streets where Beemers go sideways, if you ask the cops, they gon’ tell you that crime pays,” he raps, delivering a hard-hitting and introspective narrative that immerses listeners in the realities of his upbringing. On the song, Amarii also exudes his rap braggadocio bragging about his style and fashion. He also reflects on how different his life is- while his peers are in college figuring their life out- he is pursuing music as his full time career- something that is often seen as a high risk in our country: eSwatini.
Thought It Was Love- remix with Yung Tmpo
“Thought It Was Love,” a remixed version of a single released in July 2023, follows next. The song delves into the often-painful realization that someone you believed loved you wasn’t as genuine as you thought- this is a concept applicable to friendships in the context of this song. “I really thought it was love, I couldn’t see what it was, most of you ni***s is fake and sh**cutting it off is a must,” Amarii and Yung Tmpo exchange verses on this experience, their words underscored by a UK drill inspired beat that heightens the emotional intensity. The remix adds an extra layer of poignancy, making it a standout track on the project. If you have had the chance to see Amarii performing this song live- then you know how much of a bop it is. On the song, Amarii maintains his rap bravado- as shown on lines like “if somebody setting a bar for you niggas, I’m planning on picking it up”
GO! With Grixxly
Picture this- Go! By Amarii and Grixxly revving up alongside a Need For Speed or Fast & Furious film- you see the vision right? That’s because the track is the kind of track that feels tailor made for a high octane soundtrack. Go! Opens up with the exhilarating sound of a car accelerating, seamlessly setting the stage for an adrenaline fuelled ride. This high-energy collaboration by Amarii and Grixxly is filled with high pulsating beats and dynamic energy to capture the essence of speed and determination- in fact when Amarii says “I can feel it within, I was destined to win, let’s Go,” it feels like something a F1 race star or an olympian like Botswana’s Tebogo Letsile would say when gearing up for a race to channel a relentless spirit. Amarii and Grixxly use this imagery to depict the conviction needed when one is in pursuit chasing after their dreams shown by the thrill of high speed in the song. This makes Go! an inspiring and motivating track- fit for any soundtrack that celebrates velocity and ambition.
Stainless
“What you saying? I’m not human, I’m a Super Saiyan, tell the DJ play this sh*t, I got it banging, we are not the same, what’s your language? Yeah, I’m stainless, hop out looking clean, yeah, I’m stainless,” Amarii raps on “Stainless,” a track that oozes self-confidence and self-expression- the kind that Amarii has as a Leo man. Amarii’s flair, charisma and innate ability to command attention through his music and style shines with pride on the song. “Stainless” is the kind of song you blast while catching your reflection in the mirror- channeling your iconic Soulja Boy “hop out the bed, turn my swag on and look into the mirror say wassup” moment . The song is a celebration of individuality, both musically and fashion-wise, as Amarii exudes a cool, collected demeanor, instilling listeners with the belief that they, too, can achieve anything they set their minds to. The track is a fun, upbeat yet thought-provoking and empowering anthem. Worth noting is how Amarii also plays a huge impact in fashion and style- having worked with clothing brand Love Under No Demand to launch his own merchandise.
Truth
For me, the true purpose of music is to create the space for the truth to emerge- a sentiment that Amarii also shares. On his song “Truth” the rapper underscores his commitment to using his music as a weapon in the war against a world of ignorance and falsehood. Through lyrics such as “I don’t wanna hold my tongue any longer, I don’t even wanna run any longer, I just wanna tell the truth, my nigga,” Amarii reveals his intent to use his music as a platform to share honest, often harsh realities, setting himself apart from other artists . This message paves the way for the next track, “FAME,” where Amarii asserts that he will not compromise his principles in the pursuit of fame, standing firmly for his truth.
Fame
Undoubtedly the most popular song on the EP, boasting over 14 600 streams on Spotify, “FAME” is a hauntingly beautiful reflection on the perils of chasing fame at the expense of relationships and happiness. Amarii’s delivery is smooth and soulful, with his lyrical brilliance shining over trapsoul melodies and drums. He vividly portrays a world obsessed with the allure of fame and glory. “On the Gram, but I’m not entertained, saw it all when I got on the phone, they gon’ do whatever for the fame,” he laments, using his storytelling ability to highlight the darker side of fame, making this track a standout on the album. “They put their life on the line to go viral, I’m too different, one hand on the Bible,” he asserts, staying true to his values in an era where people risk everything for fame. I am not going to lie- the mention of Eswatini places on music always leaves a lingering feeling on me- one that is like a drug- which is why my skin gets excited when I hear the mention of Fairview in the song.
No Debate
Initially released as a single in September 2023, “No Debate” follows, serving as a powerful declaration of Amarii’s self-assuredness and confidence. In this track, he proclaims himself “the greatest,” leaving no room for dispute. Amarii also touches on the importance of music in his life, portraying it as his sanctuary and source of comfort. “Long as I got the music, I’m safe, going up, boy, I’ve been on the way, I can’t think about who’s tryna hate, I’m the greatest, boy, ain’t no debate,” he raps, conveying an unwavering belief in his abilities and foreshadowing his impending greatness. The production of the song is characterized by ominous, foreboding and grimy beats- further elevating the message of the song.
08 Outro
If you were to ask me what I was up to in 2008- I was obsessing over Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” song and over the Supra Skytop sneaker. On the other hand, from the song, I discern that Amarii was obsessing over Soulja Boy and Young Money from the lyrics “Started a crew ‘cause we tryna get our dance on, high top chucks with the Young Money caps on, decade and a half, doesn’t feel like it was that long, always felt like I had something to say, then I went and grabbed the mic instead of shying away,” “08 Outro” is the perfect culmination of the project as the song serves as a reflective journey through Amarii’s early life and his love for hip hop. He reminisces about the late 2000s, the era of Young Money’s dominance, evoking a sense of nostalgia while offering a glimpse into how his journey began. He reminisces, drawing listeners into the origins of his passion for music. It’s a fitting end to the album, leaving listeners with a deeper understanding of Amarii’s life and artistic evolution.
Amarii’s Artistic Choices
The frequent use of pink in Amarii’s artworks creates a visual narrative that deeply connects with the themes explored in his music. Pink, often symbolizing love, affection, and emotional depth, becomes a recurring motif that mirrors the introspective and heartfelt nature of his songs. The artist’s choice of pink isn’t just a color preference; it’s a deliberate artistic decision that weaves together the emotional threads of his music, reinforcing the central themes of love, connection, and self-expression. From songs like “ Gucci Bandanna” to the soft hues of pink on the cover of “East Side” BB”and “Company”- Amarii resorts to the color pink when it comes to his artworks. In the “FRVR” cover art ,pink is used to add a layer of emotional intensity to the artwork- where pink’s association with love and compassion is juxtaposed against the disillusionment and heartache expressed in the lyrics. “State of the Heart” and “Party” take the theme a step further by incorporating pink in a way that evokes both celebration and introspection. The vibrant yet soft tones of pink in these artworks reflect the duality of joy and vulnerability that often coexists in matters of the heart, aligning perfectly with the emotional depth of the songs.
Amarii’s 2024
Amarii is an artist whose allure lies in his multifaceted approach to his craft. Not only does he pen and perform his own music, but he also takes the reins in producing his tracks and crafting his visual identity through his artwork. His command over multiple artistic disciplines positions him as a true creative virtuoso, one destined for greatness. If his journey thus far is any indication, Amarii has undeniably carved out his place in the African Hip Hop landscape. In 2024, he has been on an impressive and prolific feature run, collaborating with fellow Swazi rapper Grixxly on his hit single “No Mistakes,” Phatzus on “Tiffany & Brittany,” Lesotho’s AJFawdySeven on “Mamba,” and Swazi producer Stickx on “LeParty,” among others. He also dropped a two-track EP on Valentine’s Day titled “State of the Heart”, with two songs “Umbrella” and “This Thing Of Ours.” Additionally, he teamed up with Swiss, LiveLoveLxnce and Sadboy DLR for the single “Party” and worked with Yung Tmpo and Kyro on the track “Aquafina.” As the year unfolds, I eagerly anticipate what Amarii has in store for the African Hip Hop audience—he undoubtedly stands out as the MVP of Eswatini Hip Hop. If I were to have a catalog as solid as his- I would also brag about being the greatest.
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