Falz TheBahdGuy On Music, His Journey And Time in South Africa

Falz TheBahdGuy (Folarin Folana) / 30 / Nigerian Rapper, Songwriter, Actor & Filmmaker

How has your journey as an artist been so far?

It’s been so interesting, I’ve been doing music professionally since 2009.

Favourite artist you’ve collaborated with?

That’s a tough one, everyone I’ve worked with has something special about them, I can’t pick a favourite.

When did the love for music begin?

My journey began at about 10/11 years. I started writing raps and formed a group at school where we’d perform for other students, I developed so much love for the art. In university I perfected my craft, I took the time to invest in proper recordings and also put out my music online, that’s when everything caught fire.

What about the Nigerian music industry would you say still needs to be fixed?

A proper structure that looks out for creatives has to be built. Royalty collection for instance, creatives need to be protected in that regard. It’s intellectual property that needs to be protected.

Any favourite African country you’ve traveled to?

South Africa, it’s the most developed. The infrastructure is proper and the outlook of the city is great, it’s good to see.

Any advice for aspiring artists on the come-up?

Just have fun, music is meant to be enjoyed. Be passionate about it, be hardworking and truly enjoy yourself.

You’re a creative, any other things you’d like to branch out to?

There are indeed many layers to me. I’m a lawyer, an actor and have recently become a filmmaker. During the pandemic last year, I launched my film company where I get to tell African stories, stories about us beautifully to the world. I’m also getting to a point in my life where I’m all about impact in people’s lives.

Any new music you’re releasing?

I don’t have a name or date yet, but I have an album coming out in the next two months.

Follow Falz!

Instagram: @falzthebahdguy

Twitter: @falzthebahdguy

Facebook: @falzthebahdguy

-Bridgette Makhela

T’neeya On Music, Joli, A New Album And Her Time In South Africa

T’neeya / Singer & Songwriter

Did music choose you?

100% and I’m so grateful it did! Wouldn’t have it any other way.

The best thing about your journey so far?

Meeting new people from different backgrounds and cultures, sharing my music with my audience, connecting with amazing artists and just overall getting better at my craft.

How would you describe the music you create?

It’s a blend of Afro Pop, Soul and R&B. I sing/rap in English, French and Pidgin.

Your song ‘Joli’ has been making noticeable waves, what’s the message in there?

It’s a feel good song. A nice uplifting blend of melodies you could easily vibe to in a bar, club or on the highway. In this record I’m talking to a “joli gars” which means pretty boy, basically expressing my feelings for him!

Your thoughts on African music in general?

Proud to be part of the movement, we have a lot to offer and it’s only UP from here!

What are the positives that you have experienced during this pandemic?

Taking some time for myself. Self-love has been eye opening!

How would you describe your time spent in South Africa?

Too short!!! I wish I stayed longer! I loved everything from the people to the culture to the street wear fashion! Can’t wait to go back!

Any new material you’re working on?

My first album, my baby!!! Can’t wait to share when the time is right. Stay tuned.

What would you tell aspiring female artists?

This is what I would advise any artist: Believe in yourself, surround yourself with the good people and never give up!

 

Follow T’neeya!

Instagram: @tneeya

Twitter: @tneeyaofficial

Facebook: @tneeya1

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Stonebwoy On Anloga Junction Album, South African Collaborations And Beyond

Stonebwoy / 32 / Artist, Performer & Composer

Describe Stonebwoy and the love for music?

Stonebwoy is an African from Ghana. A multi-international award-winning artist, a performer and composer. I am a very talented musical genius, blending Dancehall and Reggae styles with Afrobeats, it is termed ‘AfroDancehall’. Born Livingstone Etse Satekla, music is my life and I love my life.

You create Afropop, Reggae and Dancehall music, what’s your favourite genre to create and why?

My style is actually a combination of all the above mentioned, to form a single body, so I can confidently say my favourite thing is to create all 3-in-1, termed as AfroDancehall. All the genres of music beautifully intertwined, have the same roots which make them not so widely different.

You’ve worked with South African artists such as AKA, Nasty C and Cassper Nyovest, do you listen to SA music? If so, what’s your favourite thing about the music/artists?

South African music is smooth, with its naturally fast and mid tempos that come with a lot of very creative dances to match. I love to listen to music across Anglophone, Lusophone and Francophone lines, so I can easily relate SA music. My favourite thing about SA music is the swing it comes with, derived from the tone of languages and the artistes are unique in their styles. SA has a very diverse culture, which is beautiful.

Your new single ‘Bow Down’ sees you collaborating with Nasty C, what’s the story behind the collaboration?

Nasty C was the best choice for a rhythm like that, when I heard it I knew we could create some magical with the guidance of producer iPappi Beats from Ghana. The song was recorded at my home studio in Ghana, we made under 2 hours, from scratch! We are yet to put a video together after the Covid-19 pandemic. It’s a major project for the Anloga Junction album.

You’ve collaborated with top artists all over the world, how much personal and musical growth happens with each collaboration?

I’ve collaborated with great artists worldwide, personal musical connections have been brewed with each connect, with some relationships going beyond the music and turning into family and real friends. Like they say, real recognize real and the bond there off.

Why call your new album ‘Anloga Junction’?

The idea behind calling my album Anloga Junction is to give it identity as an African album from Ghana. The name of the town I hail from is Anloga, where Anlo is the dialect spoken and the same name defines my ethnicity.

How did the collaboration with Keri Hilson come about? Should we expect more collabs in the future?

The collaboration with Keri Hilson was meant to happen, it wasn’t planned though, only thought of and that’s why everything came together beautifully. A friend of mine met Keri on a flight and it all began there. We exchanged numbers and followed up when I went to the States for a tour. She invited me over to her studios, where the legendary award-winning producer, Andre Dre Harris was present. and we all made it happen. Yes there’s definitely a few more coming up.

How does it feel to be inducted into the Grammy Museum Sounds of Africa exhibit?

To be included in such a prestigious exhibition is proof that my hard work and contribution to the music scene is recognized globally.

What do you believe is the future of African music or Afrobeats?

The future of African music or Afrobeats is there for us the creative to speak about our history, our stories and spread the African agenda in our compositions. I’ve come to realize that this is lacking in our creative content and that is the future.

With not being able to travel due to the pandemic, what is the future looking like for you? What message do you have for your South African fans who were looking  forward to meeting you on tour in SA?

The future is still very bright, though there’s a lock down happening and the world is facing this global pandemic, I trust that there’s hope for the people of the world. Let’s turn to our maker in these times and let’s all keep to the protocols of keeping safe from this deadly virus.

Any live streaming performances for your fans during the lock down?

During this lock down I’ve done a few virtual charity concerts and pushed my store via merchandise and also pushing my album. I’ve continued to use social media to keep in touch with my fans.

How has lock down affected you as an artist?

Lock down has affected the whole world and we are finding newer means to keep pushing our work out and interacting with our fans.

 

Follow Stonebwoy!

Instagram: @stonebwoyb

Twitter: @stonebwoyb

Facebook: @stonebwoyburniton

YouTube: Stonebwoy

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Nomuzi “Moozlie” Mabena On The Come Up, Making Music And What The Industry Lacks

Nomuzi “Moozlie” Mabena / 27 / Recording Artist

It’s Been A Minute: You’ve been in the industry for a a while, how has the journey been?

It’s really been exciting. Lots of highs and lows, plenty of lessons learnt and priceless memories to last a lifetime.

Something New: ‘I’m A Star’ just dropped recently, what’s the message there?

I think the title says it all, just letting people know I’m a star!

A First: What are you still jamming from your debut album ‘Victory’?

‘Vatel’ will forever be on my playlist, but ‘Victory Anthem’ featuring Tribal has been really great during these crazy times.

A Woman Of Many Talents: What do you enjoy more, TV or making music?

Making music.

Coming To You Live!: The one thing you still get nervous about at live performances?

I’m not sure if nervous is the right word but you always want the crowd to engage and enjoy your performance. You always want people to like what you’ve got to offer.

If Only Ya’ll Knew: The dopest thing to happen to you in your career so far?

I could tell you but I’d have to kill you. I’ve worked with some of the biggest stars both locally & internationally so just know I’ve got behind the scenes stories for days, lol.

Preach Sister!: What does the South African entertainment industry lack?

Wow, there’s a lot honestly. Our industry is still young and although we’ve come far, we still have a long way to go. True costing for work being one of them, it’s high time we all got paid our worth. Not only the people on screen, but those behind the scenes too. There’s a big shift that needs to happen.

There Can Only Be One: Fashion or Friends?

Friends. You can always steal their clothes, that way you have both.

The Come Up: What advice would you give to anyone trying to build a lasting brand?

Think about who you want to be in the future and think about who you are now. A perfect blend of both those people authentically shining through will always be relatable no matter what stage you’re at, and give yourself room to grow as a person.

 

Follow Moozlie!

Instagram: @moozlie

Twitter: @nomoozlie

Facebook: @Moozlie

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Tresor On New Single, Creating Music And Nostalgia Album

Mukengerwa Tresor Riziki / Singer, Songwriter, Producer & Entrepreneur

You just released Thrill last month, what inspired the title?

The title was inspired by the incredible feeling of excitement and joy I get from living my dreams out loud and the amazing people I am blessed to be surrounded by.

You visited New York pre-lock down, what was the experience like?

The experience was really tense, the city was not alive and crazy like everyone knows New York. I was actually on my way to Los Angeles to record for a week and had to make a fast U-turn when the world started to shut down, luckily made it back home on time for lock down. That was a very hard decision because the trip was planned months prior, but it was the best choice we made.

Nostalgia made waves in the music industry, are you working on any new projects?

Yes, Nostalgia is such a special project that I am very proud of. I am working on a few amazing projects and will be announcing someone exciting news in the next two months.

How are you staying focused on your work during the lock down?

I am making sure I keep to my everyday routine, like it was before the Covid-19 madness. I wake up, exercise in the garden then hit my office for admin and stay up until late writing and producing songs in my studio at home. Sometimes it’s 18 working hours or even 24 working hours, so the rhythm hasn’t really changed. The creativity is keeping me sane. Also, it’s a super inspiring time creatively.

What does music mean to you?

Music is pretty much the essence of my being and core of my purpose.

How do you find the process of creating music?

The process of making music is a great spiritual journey. It’s uplifting, healing and a joy fountain.

Your story is an inspiring one, what keeps you grounded and focused?

My journey and where I come from keep me focused on the bigger vision and grounded to stay in touch with my core and values.

Do you have a favourite song from your catalogue so far?

This is a very hard one, my catalogue is growing and to be honest I don’t think I have written my favourite song yet. Things change as time goes by and the music keeps coming. For now I am enjoying ‘Thrill’.

Any hidden talent/s your fans may not know about?

I think I am a decent cook.

How do you plan on making a lasting legacy?

I plan on reviving glory days of African Pop music globally and uplift the next generation of African leaders in our youth.

Follow Tresor!

Instagram: @tresorofficial

Twitter: @tresoroffcial

Facebook: @tresor.official1

 

-Bridgette Makhela

 

Doowap & Tarryn On New Single Thunda Thighs, Collaborations And Performing

Khetsiwe “Doowap” Morgan / 30 / Live Mix DJ & Performer

Tarryn “TNT” Alberts / 29 / Artist, Dancer & Business Owner

You guys recently released a banger of an Amapiano song called ‘Thunda Thighs’, how did the concept come about?

Tarryn and I had been listening to a lot of Amapiano in 2019 and we started creating choreography routines to some of the tracks to perform during my DJ sets. Then end of 2019, Tarryn had the hook “Mmmm aaaahhh mmmm aaahhhh Thunda Thunda” stuck in her head and around that time we had just met the young producer DJ Nel (now going by the name DJ Nelcee) at one of our shows in Limpopo. I spoke to Nel and got him to send through some of his beats for us to vibe to. We both fell in love with the power and energy of the Thunda Thighs beat and we made the song that same day, all that was left was for it to be mixed and mastered.

How and when did you two start collaborating?

I have always admired Tarryn as a dancer, already back in 2014. Then in 2017 I asked her to help me out with creating a show and adding dance as a new element. Our first ever gig performing together was at Budweiser’s first show in South Africa. We then did Afropunk Jozi and Afropunk Brooklyn, New York together. The transition to making music together was a natural and gradual progression.

Music and Dance are what you guys represent on another level, what do you think the South African industry has done right when it comes to these two entities?

Music and dance is in South Africans’/Africans’ blood. We dance and sing when we happy or sad. There’s always been spaces and platforms for both crafts to shine. I will say though that dancers are not treated with the respect they deserve. The amount of hours they put in to help bring an artist’s show to life is immense. They are often overlooked in terms of budget and attention deserved, but still they deliver over and above to bring a show to life. We need more community centres in underdeveloped areas to give children and young adults an alternative to the harsh circumstances they grow up in. Tarryn started a dance centre called “So Dope”, where she teaches classes and is grooming the next generation of dancers. Hopefully we can have more mentors, leaders and spaces created to nurture and cultivate young talented individuals in all forms of artistry.

Where do you guys keep getting inspiration from?

We are both super inspired and motivated by our country and the driven youth that inhibit it. Connecting with young artists at all ours shows, spending time with like-minded creatives in Braamfontein and each city we visit sparks us and ignites our fire. Travelling is always the biggest inspiration, hopping on a plane and landing in a completely different country with their own culture and views is always a refreshing mind shift and opportunity to learn and engage with other parts of ourselves.

Travel is a major part of your lives, how do you plan your schedules around this?

The traveling is part of the work, I try and organize gigs at the places I would like to visit. Sometimes we are fortunate enough to get opportunities that fly us out of the country and give us time to explore it. Tarryn was fortunate enough to do multiple world tours with a well known group.

Once the lockdown’s done, where can fans look forward to seeing your performances?

Wow the future of music is so uncertain. We are not really thinking about shows at the moment as they keep getting cancelled, the main focus is to keep making music and to keep creating. We are also figuring out new and interesting ways of making money in this industry during this weird climate. If you would like to catch us doing our thing and shining then for now it seems it’s going to have to be virtually through Lives and social media.

Any music video for Thunda Thighs in the pipeline?

We would love a video for Thunda Thighs and have the treatment mapped out but the lockdown has put everything on hold. Hopefully something will come out soon.

The one thing you always do before a performance?

We always do warm ups, some abs and core workout, run through the choreography and stretch. The main thing is to loosen up and get our energy levels up.

Any exciting projects still to come from you two?

At the moment we are just focused on making the music video, keeping fit and finding the direction we want the music to go. We are grateful to have this chance to work on ourselves without the pressure of the outside world at the moment.

Advice for aspiring young females that look up to you?

Advice is do whatever you have to do to keep your star shining. Even if it means sometimes you have to be selfish with your time and the people you want to be around. Work on your passion daily, even on the days you are feeling off, just keep moving forward.

Follow Doowap & Tarryn!

Instagram: @djdoowap / @tarryn_tnt

Twitter: @DJ_Doowap

Facebook: @DjDoowap / @tarryntnt

 

-Bridgette Makhela 

Manu Worldstar On Music, Dreams And Being An Inspiration

Manu Worldstar

Emmanuel Mumbili Mutendji

 24 / Afro Pop Artist

You fast made a name for yourself with the release of your EP ‘Young African Story’, how has life been ever since it dropped?

My life has been filled with crazy experiences and I’ve learned a lot. I’ve also lost a lot but gained a lot too. It’s been quite a roller coaster.

What’s the ultimate 2020 goal?

I have one vision, and that’s to release the best body of work I possibly can.

African music, describe it in 1 word…?

 Culture.

Who do you look up to when it comes to producing music?

Drake, J. Cole, AKA and Burna Boy, Just to name a few…

What are you working on at the moment?

The same thing I’ve been working on for the past 2 years, and it’s almost ready!

Was this always your dream?

My first dream was to become a soccer player, but God quickly led me on the better path for me.

What’s the message you always strive to send out through your music?

My overall message is to be truthful, have fun and live life to the fullest.

Favourite clothing item in your closet?

That’s a tough one, lol. I’d have to say it’s my jewellery.

How do you plan on always inspiring the kids that look up to you?

 By always being myself at all times and by making sure my voice is the voice of my people.

Follow Manu Worldstar!

Instagram: @manu_worldstar

Twitter: @Manu_WorldStar

Facebook: @manuworldstar

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Castle Lite Unlocks Cardi B In Mzansi This June!

 CASTLE LITE UNLOCKS CARDI B IN MZANSI THIS JUNE, OKURRR!

Africa’s biggest supporter of Hip-Hop culture, Castle Lite has sent chills throughout the continent as they revealed that ground-breaking rapper, Cardi B will headline this year’s Unlocks experience.

Set to perform at the TicketPro Dome in Johannesburg, South Africa on 12 June 2020, Cardi B is one of the most sought-after voices in global Hip-Hop yielding a Grammy award and a world record for the Most Simultaneous Billboard US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Top 10 entries by a female. This year, Castle Lite is proud to have her headline the Unlocks experience as it celebrates its 10^th year.

This is a big year for Castle Lite Unlocks as the brand not only celebrates a decade of making a bigger contribution to African Hip-Hop than any other brand, but also a decade of having given local fans of the genre, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see their favourite chart-topping stars such as Drake, J Cole, Chance the Rapper, Kanye West, Travis Scott, Post Malone, and Meek Mill. And now Cardi B’s performance marks a triumphant 10-year anniversary of the Unlocks experience.

“Castle Lite prides itself in not only being a market leader in the beer category, but also in our commitment to making a positive contribution to African Hip-Hop culture. We couldn’t be more excited to reveal the multi-award winning Press hit-maker, Cardi B as this year’s headliner,” said Castle Lite Brand Director, Silke Bucker.

The brand made the big reveal on Thursday, 20 February after having given loyal Castle Lite Unlocks fans an exclusive first dibs at Early Bird tickets to the 2020 experience. The internet was a buzz with news of Unlocks 2020 tickets being sold from as little as R50.

Devoted fans of the Castle Lite Unlocks movement purchased their Early Bird tickets prior to finding out who this year’s headlining act would be. This dynamic pricing model gives our consumers the ultimate opportunity to experience Castle Lite Unlocks for a fraction of the regular cost while relying on the concert’s reputation to bring the biggest stars in the world to South Africa.

The campaign saw tickets at each phase selling in a record-breaking 10 seconds and sky-rocketing www.castlelite.co.za to the 4^th most visited site in the world by number of visits and is now the most visited site in Africa. At any given moment, 10s of thousands of Hip-Hop lovers camped on the site in hopes to snatch one of the Early Bird tickets.

Consumers who missed out on this feast of Early Bird tickets can purchase their concert package deals at their full retail price starting at R690 from www.castlelite.co.za as of Friday, 21 February 2020.

For more information check out www.castlelite.co.za or follow the official social media pages:

Facebook: Castle Lite

Twitter: @CastleLiteSA

Instagram: @CastleLiteSA

#CastleLiteUnlocks

–Bridgette Makhela

 

Kutloano ‘Da Kruk’ Nhlapo On DJing, The Axe Ibiza Experience And His Industry Journey

Kutloano Nhlapo / 29 / Mix DJ / Radio Presenter / Radio Music Executive / All Round Creative

How’d you find your way into the industry?

It’s been a really long journey that started during school holidays. I used to job shadow DJ Sbu’s Drive Time Show and eventually had a taste of radio and the Schools Art Festival in Grahamstown, I think that’s when I knew that music and radio are what I’m going to do until the casket drops. DJing started a lot earlier, which was also during my high school days, a friend of mine had equipment and we’d chill for hours on end in his backroom DJing. The defining point, however, was leaving UJFM to produce Mo Flava’s Breakfast Show on YFM 99.2 at the age of 22 back in 2012.

Has your journey been epic or a beautiful struggle? Elaborate…

My journey has been a beautiful struggle and epic at the same time because it’s been really challenging, confusing and torturing all in the same breath. Every time I think of giving up or doubting my abilities, a reward takes me to the next level.

You made headlines last year by winning the Axe DJ search competition, how has that impacted/shaped your brand?

That was a defining period, I mean I was one of the last people to enter the competition because I was in a place where I was fighting who I am and what I wanted from the industry as a creative. So I entered because playing in Ibiza was a childhood dream and this opportunity really took me back to why I wanted to DJ and why I actually started, so it really wasn’t a battle to beat any other DJ but a challenge to fulfill something I’ve always wanted.

How does a typical day for you look like?

I’m a workaholic that’s always ready to outwork everybody, so every time I have time on my hands and doing nothing with it, I feel like I’m cheating myself. So during the week (Monday to Friday) I’m at YFM working as a Music Executive, playing my part in contributing to the sound and direction of the station. During weekends I’m either doing my radio shows on YFM or gigging somewhere in the country.

Ever had/have a mentor?

Yeah, before I got into radio I worked as an intern at a youth marketing agency called Monatefellaz, which was founded by Musa Kalenga. I left Monatefellaz at age 22 as a Junior Creative Director and made sure that I maintain that relationship over the years, so besides not working for him, I kept reaching out over the years and that’s how he became a person that helps me make some crucial career decisions and maintain a progressive mindset. Musa Kalenga is an author, master strategist, speaker and all things progressive African.

What does music mean to you?

Music means ‘Privileged Mindset’ to me because music prepares and makes us overcome any situation or any stage of life. It’s one of the only art forms that gives obvious solutions to our everyday life struggles.

Favourite genre of music? (already seems pretty obvious though…lol)

Well I don’t think it’s as obvious as you think. I’m a big Hip-Hop fan because of how precise the messaging is in the art, so you know exactly what the person is going through and what he/she is trying to say. It’s closely followed by Dance/House music because of the feeling of immunity it gives one and the fact that you are able to comprehend every record the way you want.

When you play for a crowd, what makes it memorable?

I think being able to take a group of people from one energy wavelength to the next regardless of their racial, socioeconomic status or background is an out of body experience for me and is probably the most addictive thing one can do.

You’ve done some traveling too, any type of growth you experienced?

Yeah man, traveling just makes you realize how much more there is to contribute to the culture and world through music. It’s taught me a lot about myself and what I have to contribute creatively.

What’s the plan going forward?

Just being more creative in my approach and not fall for society’s trap and what everyone else is doing or deems as a working formula.

What’s your 2018 mindset yet?

2018 is looking amazing, as we speak my first quarter is almost sorted and it entails traveling, international collaborations and growing organically as a creative so I’m really amped up.

Any closing words for the culture?

ALL DREAMS ARE VALID!

Follow Da Kruk!

Instagram: @dakruk

Twitter: @dakruk

Facebook: Kutloano da Kruk

–Bridgette Makhela

K Naomi On Her Dreams, Achievements And The Road To Success

Keitumetse Naomi Noinyane / 25 / TV Personality / MC / Brand Ambassador / Brand Strategist & Consultant

First thing’s first, how was Coachella 2017 girl?!

Coachella was amazing, thank you. Probably one of the best trips I’ve ever gone on. World class setup, music and productions. More than anything, an eye opener to the opportunities the world has to offer.

How amazing is it being selected to join the Maybelline It Girls Global Campaign?

It’s an honour. The opportunity came by surprise, I’m also the only African female in the Global Girls Group. It’s pretty exciting in many ways and an awesome campaign to be a part of.

You’ve recently also teamed up with the Reebok family, how close is the #PrettyLethal campaign to your heart?

Being a Reebok ambassador also came by surprise, it’s awesome being part of an international classic brand that aligns with the type of brand I’m mounding K Naomi to be. Pretty Lethal is an awesome female empowering campaign that made sense to my intentions of inspiring females and it’s also awesome to contribute through a campaign that can actively change lives and more than anything, highlight the importance of females, their unity and their safety. Reebok definitely created a campaign that non have done and it’s an absolute privilege that I carry it too.

Your schedule seems pretty hectic, how do you find balance?

Finding balance is quite hard but I always make sure I make time for myself to reflect and just be. I listen to a lot of music so that’s helped me through my career and just being in my own space.

Your secret to always keeping in shape is?

Gym, eat healthy, gym, mind your own business, gym, work hard.

All your achievements to date, has this always been your dream?

Some of my achievements have been dreams and others I consider ‘extras’. I always set goals, there are so many to still achieve but I’m working on them. So far everything has been a blessing, but my dreams are bigger than where I am currently.

How long has the road to success been for you?

I’m not even successful yet, I haven’t hit that peak or reached that level of confidently saying I’m successful. I’m still wishing my journey, it’s been long but worthwhile.

Only one can be chosen, which one…Fashion, Make-Up or Traveling?

Traveling!

Do you live to inspire or to be inspired?

I live to inspire.

Follow K Naomi!

Instagram: @knaomin

Twitter: KNaomi_N

Facebook: K Naomi N

–Bridgette Makhela