YoungstaCPT On DDPB Album, Y?GEN And Career Highlights

Why the name ‘Dreams Don’t Pay Bills’?

YoungstaCPT: The pandemic really shifted things for artists and humanity alike. I think for artists specifically, we were spoiled. We were protected and sheltered, our lifestyles were funded by shows, tours and other endeavours. When all of that came to an end, we had to scramble for an alternative. Luckily I had a shop, we were still selling merchandise, sneakers and everything else. Once the pandemic hit, it did make things a bit slower for us. I only got the shop in 2019 so I traded for nine months without Covid, and two years with Covid! It taught me lot, especially in terms of being a business man. I realized my dreams are still valuable, but I have to be more aggressive in actioning them, making them possible and turning them into material things that I can see. I should always be able to give something to my mom, pay the crew and pay the rent. The name of the album came from that desperation. I felt like I had to hustle like back when I started in 2010. Desperate times, desperate measures.

How did you and Shaney Jay meet?

Shaney Jay: We met in 2019 at a show. My friend told me Youngsta was in the parking lot so I went to go and take a photo with him and a year later, he opened up the studio and I was told he wanted to see me and here we are today. I had been producing for about 6 years before that. When Youngsta listened to my production on songs like Shane Eagle’s ‘AMMO’, he sent for me and it’s been a pleasure working with him so far.

Do you have a favourite feature on the album?

YoungstaCPT: Every song captures each person’s quality, personality and skill set. But, the song with DJ Ready D and Emile YX from Black Noise does something to me. This is probably the first time they make a song together and for me, it’s the significance of the song and what the two as pioneers of Hip Hop mean to us as Capetonians.

As a South African product, what is different about your Y?GEN clothing line?

YoungstaCPT: It’s not really dictated by trends, it is meant for someone who dresses according to what they like. In Cape Town, just because everyone wears something, it doesn’t mean we’ll all wear it, we have a certain image and specific style (there’s a whole documentary about this) and I’ve brought that into my clothing line, my raps and into the music videos too. I don’t dress like a rich rapper, I’ve kept my style grounded and kept to what I like.

Describe music in your own words…

Shaney Jay: It’s a feeling, if you make a hyped up song, you feel hyped, if you make an emotional song, you feel emo. That’s why us as creators play a big role in how the listener will feel, music is about feelings.

Would you say your highlight of 2021 is the album?

YoungstaCPT: I would say the Street Fever deal, acting in and having my music played on Blood & Water (S2) and of course, the new album.

Follow Youngsta CPT!

Instagram: @youngstacpt

Twitter: @YoungstaCpt

Facebook: @YoungstaCpt

-Bridgette Makhela

Amanda Black On New Single, Forthcoming Album And Career Highlights

Amanda Black / Singer & Songwriter

Who is Amanda Black?

A South African musician from the Eastern Cape.

What is the message in your new single ‘Kutheni Na’ featuring Kwesta?

I am venting, talking about how I feel and what I’m going through. There are so many things happening and sometimes I find myself not understanding how to make sense of all the changes we’re going through. It’s all about me being honest with myself. I want people to be okay with not being okay. Kwesta also came on and was honest too in the song and I appreciate that.

Your forthcoming ablum, ‘Mnyama’, tell us the process it took to create this body of work?

When I began making these songs, it wasn’t an album. I just needed to say something and express myself. I decided this year to make an album with all these songs I made during lockdown. The process was about my journey and how I feel. I wanted to be vulnerable and bare. It was about showing my emotions throughout the songs. I needed to be gentle towards myself and I believe it will resonate with people when they listen.

Your journey so far, a highlight that stands out?

Winning my first awards in 2017, such as the SAMAs. Working with the likes of Yvonne Chaka Chaka, and Anthony Hamilton as well as being nominated for a BET award (hearing Nomzamo say my name at the BETs was everything) and being on the Essence stage (it was virtual but amazing). It’s only my fifth year in the industry but it’s been a beautiful journey so far.

What would you say the South African music industry is doing right in 2021?

I’m seeing artists being fearless, owning themselves and the work they do and it’s going to ripple-effect into owning our stake in the industry. Artists have not taken the ownership as playmakers in the industry but I see it happening now. This is our industry, whatever happens is on us.

Where in the world would you still love to perform?

Everywhere in the world, lol. I’d absolutely love to perform at Madison Square Garden.

What would you say is your ex-factor?

My spirit, it’s the one thing that stands out across the board with every hat that I wear.

Consistency, how do you maintain it?

The people I keep around me, my team and the people that know me push me and keep me consistent. I love what I do and that also keeps me consistent because I remain myself always.

Pick one, money or a man?

I would pick “the man”.

How do your fans play a role in your life?

My fans literally come up to me and tell me how they relate to my music and how it heals them. All the love and support they show me is encouraging, I truly appreciate them.

Follow Amanda!

Instagram: @amandablacksa

Twitter: @AmandaBlackSA

Facebook: @amandablackofficial

-Bridgette Makhela

Mo Flava On Trending SA, Radio And Everything Else In Between

Moeti “Moflava” Tsiki / Radio & TV Personality / Club DJ

What do you think you bring to the new Trending SA presenter line-up?

My experience in media and broadcasting has exposed me to many different facets and I hope that will shine through. I can cover a range of topical discussions ranging from current affairs to entertainment. Naturally, my personality and wit is apparently another stand out factor, lol.

How does Trending SA stand out for you as a TV show?

I love talk-show formats. I enjoy TV shows that create content based on daily affairs and social commentary. Trending SA is an excellent platform and it allows us to touch on many different subjects and get a sense of public opinion on a number of matters.

You’ve been in the entertainment industry for a long while, what do you think still needs to change?

The entertainment industry needs to be regulated better so that talent is protected. Our industry still remains relatively unstable. Talent needs to get paid more, talent also needs to plan careers and manage finances better. I think corporates and media platforms need to collaborate more with personalities on their own concepts.

Radio is in your DNA, how is TV different for you?

On radio, people hear what you say. On TV, they hear and see what you’re saying. The visual aspects of how you communicate become important when you’re live on TV. I also think TV has a much bigger crew working on one show, unlike with radio.

            Your wish for this year is?

            To elevate my career to the next level, and get the vaccine! Lol.

        How does a typical day look for you?

My radio show on Metro FM, ‘The Morning Flava’ from 5-9AM. Then meetings, voice overs and brand campaigns that I’m working on. Next thing you know, it’s time for Trending SA!

            Anything you would change about your career journey so far?

I wouldn’t change anything, but I do feel procrastination has been my “achilles heel”. I’ve put off so many great ideas and opportunities and I feel I need to stop second guessing myself and take more risks.

            What can fans expect from you in 2021?

I hope to contribute to the growth of Trending SA and grow my radio show too. I’m also working on my own initiative called ‘Buy Local’, a YouTube show that promotes local brands. I’m also giving away bursaries to students who want to study, and I’ve been a part of a student debt initiative aimed at eradicating student debt.

What would you say is your ex-factor?

People say it’s my smile, my voice, my choice of cologne and sneakers and my witty sense of humour, lol.

Follow Mo Flava!

Instagram: @moflava

Twitter: @moflavadj

Facebook: @MoFlavaDJ

-Bridgette Makhela

Shannon Esra On Her Journey, New Show Lioness And Various Acting Roles

Shannon Earle Esrechowitz (better known as Shannon Esra) / Actor, Writer & Artist

How did your journey in the industry begin?

I was 15 years old when I began presenting for TV. A year after that, I was cast in ‘I Dreamed of Africa’ with Kim Basinger, thanks to my high school Drama teacher, Janet Bayliss and South African casting agent, Christa Shamberger-Young.

You’ve played so many characters on South African television, how do you prepare for each role?

I approach every script the same way – I read it three times: firstly, to get a feeling for the story; secondly, as an investigator – looking for clues about my character – what are people saying about her, what does she say about herself, what are her fears, passions and motivations; and then thirdly, for pure enjoyment. Then it’s a matter of collaboration with the various departments. Who is she? How does she dress? What does she look like? How does she move? I like to work with the elements and the animal kingdom to root the energies of the people I portray. It’s a fun process. It really is like moulding clay. 

Lioness is currently on MNet on Thursdays, what can viewers look forward to in the storyline?

The revelations at the end of every episode are so powerful! But other than that, I really cannot say…can’t set off any “spoiler alerts”!

You’ve been on prominent and loved TV shows such as The River, Gomora, The Throne, and Isidingo…how does an actress maintain consistent work in the industry?

Honestly, by the grace of God. Everything that comes to us, as human beings, is what the universe needs us to experience. I believe each job comes by way of what I need to encounter. 

What do you love about acting?

I love how I get to experience another human being on any given day; how I am granted access into other worlds and mind-sets; how I get to see the world through someone else’s eyes, and by virtue of that, I get to stretch my capacity for love and understanding. Acting is very holistic, for me, personally. I can play pretend and create other worlds. It’s the best job on the planet!

One talent people don’t know you have?

I can tie a cherry stalk into a knot with just my tongue.

What do you hope to ultimately achieve in 2021?

Tranquility and peace of mind. I would love to shoot a couple of movies, maybe another series or two, and also, the odd painting here and there. That would be great! 

How would you like to be remembered?

As funny, kind, and passionate. 

Follow Shannon!

Instagram: @shannonesra_official

Twitter: @ShannonEsra

Facebook: @ShannonEsraOfficial

-Bridgette Makhela

Meet One Shaman, The Artist And Content Creator

Wandile Mathe aka One Shaman / 27 / Artist & Content Creator

What’s the plan for One Shaman?

The plan for One Shaman is to introduce myself to the media industry primarily as an artist, and secondly, as a content creator. I really believe in the music I make, my skill as an Emcee and being in the competitive space that is Hip-Hop, I now have the chance to show that. I am very passionate about content too and I have a lot of ideas on how South African media can compete globally as far as our content and how we consume it.

Braam Baby is dope, what’s the track all about?

So ‘Braam Baby’ is a story about the modern independent woman who knows her worth and her value in the current climate of pop culture. It’s a story we all know too well but how I tell it is very relatable, cool and fun. It’s a record I’ve teased for the past few months and plan to release in Spring with the visuals. I’m currently promoting a record called ‘Yes Lord’ and an upcoming Mixtape titled ‘’Who The Fuck Is This’’.

The South African Hip-Hop scene is getting really competitive, what’s unique about you?

I’m versatile as far as my subject matter, I really enjoy the craft of emceeing but I know how to make good records too. I find a balance between traditional emceeing and rapping, as well as knowing what’s popular and adapting to that. I enjoy taking risks with music and will try almost every sound if I can pull it off. I approach every song like a film, regardless the subject matter, I need you to see it (the song), as well as hear it.

What does your brand and image seek to portray?

I honestly haven’t come to terms with that word, brand, I really don’t like it but to answer the question, my brand would be authenticity over everything. I am a 27 year old guy who is taking a shot at his dreams. I’m flawed like everyone else and I just want to portray that balance of life, the righteous and the ratchet. I guess I’m also winging it and figuring it out as I go.

How long have you been on the scene?

I have been in the media space for over 5 years now, as far as music goes, I would say I started buzzing around 2016 when I really decided to give this a go.

Where can people access your Mixtape?

My mixtape will be out on June 16, 2018 and will be available for free download and streaming via my social media. My current single ‘Yes Lord’ is available on all digital platforms and streaming services. Shooting a video for that in a few weeks so do look out for that as well.

Your dream performance would be where?

I have to do Back To The City before it ends, that is the staple as far as South African Hip-Hop. Before 2021 that will definitely happen, it’s on my list.

Plan for the rest of 2018?

The rest of 2018 is more music, more content. Shaman EP in September 2018 and something special for the West Rand in December 2018.

Your social media handles are?

Twitter: @One_Take_One

Facebook: One Shaman

Instagram: @OneShaman

 

Links to music by One Shaman:

iTunes/AppleMusic

https://apple.co/2rzfqPq

Spotify

https://spoti.fi/2G8qZlZ

TIDAL

http://tidal.com/album/88691369

Google Play

https://bit.ly/2Ibr8LD

–Bridgette Makhela