Khuli Chana On New Album, Achievements And The Motswako Movement

Khulani Morule / 37 / Motswakoriginator

You’ve just dropped your new album, ‘Planet Of The Have Nots’, what’s the message in the music?

It’s about paying homage to a place I come from, my big brother HHP, and sharing stories about failure, success, the past and the future.

Your catalogue is absolutely incredible, what kept driving you to get this far?

Sustaining a career in this industry is not easy, but we’ve done it for over 10 years now. I attribute my success to the guys I came up with, Kaygizm and Towdeemac (MORAFE). Making music that ages well, it’s timeless.

Something people don’t know about Khuli Chana?

Before I became a rapper, I was a gymnast for about 7 years.

In all honesty, what scares you about the industry?

Being forgotten and dusted, that fear has always kept me going, and re-inventing myself.

Your biggest achievement so far would be?

My music catalogue, building my mom a property business, raising a beautiful daughter and marrying my best friend.

All your albums are a true reflection of the Motswako movement, has that always been your core focus and message?

GROWTH has always been the core focus.

The years have seen you carve yourself into a unique South African artist, what would you believe is your ex-factor? 

Trends come and go, style is timeless.

Amongst other titles, you’re a multi award winning rapper, what other projects are you involved with?

I’m a co-founder of MAFTOWN HEIGHTS, an annual Hip Hop event property. It just recently turned 10 years and we are currently working on the Anniversary Celebration.

Does fame or reputation matter to you? And why?

Fame is the worst drug known to man, it comes with what I do, but I never let it get to my head. Building a great reputation in this business will sustain your career.

Photographer Edit: Odirile Seagang

Follow Khuli Chana!

Instagram: @khulichana01

Twitter: @KhuliChana

Facebook: @KhuliChana

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Zinhle Jiyane: DJ & Business Woman, Adds Motherhood To List

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Ntombezinhle Jiyane
32
DJ & Business Woman

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At what age did the DJing bug hit you?

I started DJing in 2004.

The feeling you got when you first witnessed a crowd dancing to your music?

I was in disbelief and got less nervous than I was. It gave me so much confidence; I knew I could do it.

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Describe the kind of woman that Zinhle is…

I am a very simple person. I am a body of love: I love my family, friends and fans. I love successful and ambitious women. I love music. I am the kind of woman who wants to see other women being successful and happy.

How has motherhood changed your priorities in life?

I don’t think it has changed me at all, I feel like it has heightened some of my characteristics. I love love and I feel an overwhelming feeling of love for my baby.

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Your dream for your daughter is?

I want her to be happy! I want her to pursue her dreams and do whatever makes her happy as long as she does not hurt or disrespect anyone. I want her to have dreams and not be afraid to go after them. I also want her to know that she is loved and beautiful.

When Zinhle isn’t out working, what’s her best way to unwind?

Spending time with Kairo or with friends…I also love a good book and nap.

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What’s your secret to maintaining staying power as a female DJ in the industry?

I stay true to myself.

Favourite quote?

“You are your thoughts.”

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Got any phobias?

I have a phobia for balloons…Kairo is helping me face that fear, it’s not easy but I can’t expect my child to not have balloons at her parties just because mommy is afraid of them.

Besides DJ work and your Era by Zinhle line, are there any other projects you will be focusing on this year?

I will be releasing a new single featuring Tamara Dey.

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Follow Zinhle!

Instagram: @djzinhle

Twitter: @DJZinhle

Facebook: DJ ZINHLE

 

Bridgette Makhela