Amanda “Ami” Faku / 26 / Musician
Your music has fast taken the South African industry by storm, was this always your life plan?
It has been the dream, but you never really know so you always hope for the best. I am happy that the plan we had with my team actually worked out.
What does music mean to you?
Music for me is a human need. I define it as that because I always need music when I feel a certain way. It helps us function through life, it’s what we all need as humans and it’s what we connect with. It gives us hope and dreams, it’s such an important part of life.
What’s your favourite song at the moment from your album ‘Imali’?
I can’t really say I have a favourite song on the album, every song has such a special and significant meaning for me and why I made each song so it’s always difficult for me to answer such a question but I would pick ‘Ndikhethe Wena’ as it was the first ever single that introduced me into the industry.
What would you call your genre of music?
I would define my genre of music as Modern Afro Soul, that’s the kind of music I make.
What do you think South African musicians still need to learn?
We need to take collaborating with other artists (even if it’s through writing) very seriously. Being involved in the creation of your songs, knowing what you want and establishing your own style as an individual is something that we need to do more as South African musicians.
Any collaborations you’d like to be a part of?
I would love to be a part of any collaboration that I feel can see me grow as an artist, I’m open to any collaboration with anyone that I can find useful at that moment.
Your ‘Ebhayi’ music video is truly beautiful…what’s the message there?
The Ebhayi music video portrays how I am happy when I’m back home, and how much home gives me strength and courage to continue working towards my dreams.
The one person that inspires you?
I’m inspired by a lot of people, I genuinely don’t just look up to one person. A lot of people have important roles in the journey of who I want to be. Caiphus Semenya, Chrronixx and H.E.R are some of the artists that inspire me.
Any exciting projects you’re currently working on?
Currently I’m just trying to do music, just like with my first album. I’m not trying to rush or have a deadline, whenever I feel like it and whenever I find time to do it.
How was your life like this time last year?
This time last year I was still creating music, trying to figure out my place in this industry and still trying to introduce myself. I look back now and it’s so amazing to see how many things have happened in a year.
Follow Ami Faku!
Instagram: @ami_faku
Twitter: @Ami_Faku
Facebook: @AmiFakuMusic
-Bridgette Makhela
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