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

Una Rams On His Story So Far, His First Ever Single And His Genre Of Music

Unarine Rambani / 22 / Sonic Artist, Software Engineer, Weird Kid

Tell your story so far…
I’m a kid from a small town called Makwarela in Venda, I’ve always felt that I was destined to be something great! I fell in love with music at a young age, learnt a couple of instruments through being involved in my parents’ church, that laid a foundation for how I understand and create music today. I went from being a Soundcloud kid to hearing my songs play on a couple of radio stations, to TV and now I’m the Venda Pop Star. There’s still so much I want to do, even outside the music, stay tuned!

Thank God for music because?
It literally saved my life, it’s allowed me to be free and express myself. I honestly don’t think I’d be as happy as I am if I didn’t have music. It was a healthy outlet in my varsity years, I believe it kept me sane.

You just recently celebrated your 22nd birthday, any major plans for the year ahead?
I’m releasing an important EP titled ‘Wavy Baby’ very soon. It’s one for the cuddles, head rubs, smiles and tears. I tell a love story without a happy ending because fairy tales are overrated. I have big plans for this project that will be an extension of the music, super excited to see everything come together.

South Africa needs to watch out for you mos def, do you love the attention?
It’s super cool, I used to shy away from it because I’ve always been about keeping to myself but I’m the type of person that wants to positively impact people and see them reach their potential and actually make efforts to chase their dreams. So I’m embracing the popularity (pronounced fame) and using the influence that comes with that to spread a message of positivity, peace and love.

Something not everybody knows, when did you release your first ever single?
Lol, that was way back in Grade 10, I produced the song myself, with a little help from my brother, Tondi Rams (check him out) and recorded over at a friend’s place. I got a thousand downloads on the day I released, which was a pretty big deal back then. I even got to perform the song at the Matric dance that year.

Do you own a journal? In other words, do you write your own material?
I’ve been trying to keep records of all the little thoughts that go through this wild brain. I wasn’t the type to reminisce much but I’m starting to appreciate looking back at who I was and seeing how much I’ve grown. We often get caught up in what’s wrong right now and we forget to be grateful for how far we’ve come, this sort of remedies this. I’ve written all my songs to date and I’m getting to the stage where I’m challenging myself to fully open up and really say how I’m feeling.

How would you describe your genre of music?
I call it human, it’s imperfect in it’s nature and it’s forever evolving. I might be doing this style today but I could easily come back with a new one tomorrow, I’m always trying to reinvent myself and my sound, Growth is key.

Nobody wants a lame squad. Do your friends support you?
My friends have been nothing but amazing. They won’t allow anyone they know to sleep on Una Rams, I’ve gotten voice notes from 6-year olds, videos from parents and even speeches inspired by myself from their friends and families. I really appreciate them, I just wish we could still hang out like the old times (we’ll find time).

Are you in this for the long run, or for the fame?
This is my life and for as long as I’m breathing, this is what I’m going to be doing. I love it with all my heart and God Himself keeps opening new doors for me…it’s not a journey that’s gonna end any time soon.

 

Follow Una Rams!

Instagram: @unarams

Twitter: @UnaRamsWeirdKid

Facebook: Una Rams

 

–Bridgette Makhela

Tino Chinyani On The Modelling Industry And Opportunities It Has Brought His Way

Tinotenda Chinyani / 23 / TV Presenter / Model / Actor

How did you get your break into the industry?

A friend of mine, Donald, suggested that I try out modelling. I then did a photo shoot, then got signed to Boss Models…the rest is history!

Has modelling always been in the cards for you?

I didn’t always want to be a model, instead I always wanted to be an athlete. Basketball was always the sport I wanted to play. My first year at varsity I got signed to a modelling agency and that’s when the journey began.

You’re the main guy in Thabsie’s new music video ‘African Queen’ featuring JR, did you have to audition for the role?

No I didn’t, they called me, having seen me on the Channel O Top 5 show. They contacted me the day before the shoot and invited me to go to Mpumalanga and shoot the music video.

All the titles that you hold, how do you find some balance?

Finding balance requires knowing when to say no because it’s very easy to get burnt out. You have to value your own time and take some time to rest.

What’s your typical day like?

Call time could be anytime between 08:30 or 09:30. You could be on your feet the whole day, you have to be smiling the whole time and getting the work done. I’ve never been a fan of sleeping anyway so as soon as the sun’s up I’m good to go.

Would you say the industry you’re in is tough, and why?

The modelling industry is very blunt. Castings and auditions are very unapologetic when it comes to what they want. At the same time it’s also a beautiful industry when it comes to the places you travel to and the people you meet. It’s also tricky when it comes to getting booked, payment could sometimes take from 30 to 90 days. Clients you deal with are also different compared to agencies. You can get taken advantage of if you’re not careful, you have to be very woke. You may look up to big names in the industry, but when you actually get to work with them, it turns out to be something very different. I am very thankful that I’m still young and doing what I love.

Who or what keeps you grounded?

My friends keep me grounded. I’m very personal with people who I keep in my space. My sister and mother also play a big role in keeping me grounded. I want people to see me years from now and still say that Tino has remained humble even after all the achievements, even if I was to take my career to an international level.

Money or Fame?

Money, definitely not the fame. You need to be financially secure. Go get your money, you didn’t go through all the hard work for nothing.

That one thing you can’t function without?

God.

You dress very well. How do you put an outfit together?

I love comfort, that is always key. I always ask myself “does it look good?” I’m not trying to be acknowledged for how I dress, but I’m also not trying to look terrible either. I always try to stand out within my simplicity.

How do you deal with all the attention?

People want you for who you are right now. The same people who were never even interested in you from way back. I evaluate it in the sense that no one really loves you out here, they only value you for what you do. There will always be distractions in whatever industry you’re in, I just try my best to always keep focused.

2017’s almost done, any exciting plans for next year?

2017’s been a really eye-opening year. I started doing Television for the first time and also further learning about the reality of the modelling industry. I got to meet and work with amazing people, it’s still surreal. Coming into 2018, you’re gonna see a hungrier me, chasing that cheque and a lot of things to come. I like keeping people in suspense so watch this space!

 

Follow Tino!

Instagram: @tino_chinyani263

Twitter: Tino_Chinyani09

Facebook: Tinotenda Chinyani

 

–Bridgette Makhela

 

 

Makgotso M On The Industry, Challenges And Being Unapologetic

Makgotso M / 25 / Actress

You’re already on your way to being one of South Africa’s great actresses, was this always your ideal career?

Thank you, that’s a wonderful compliment. I’ve always wanted to reach my personal best and I continue to strive for that.

Are you finding any challenges in the industry so far?

There are a few, but I have great people behind me that are helping me get through.

When and how did your break into the industry occur?

I went to multiple auditions…then one day I got a yes.

How do you manage to take on more that one project at a time?

I have an awesome team who take care of my schedule.

How many hours a day do you spend on set shooting?

It’s never the same, it varies.

That one item you can’t work without?

My script.

Fame or money?

Money.

What would your spirit animal be and why?

A lion, because it’s bold and unapologetic.

A lot of young females admire your work, what kind of legacy would you like to leave behind one day?

I want people to know that people’s opinions are irrelevant. Pursue the dreams God has put in your heart and don’t be apologetic for it.

 

Photos: Esthe Pretorius /@stpretorius

Makeup: Danielle O’Kane/@danthemanfantastic

 

Follow Makgotso M!

Instagram: @makgotsom1

Twitter: MakgotsoM1

Facebook: Makgotso M

 

–Bridgette Makhela

 

Gigi Lamayne On The Hip-Hop Game Right Now, Inspiration And Dominating 2017

Genesis Gabriella Tina Manney / 23 / Poet, Musician, Songwriter, Activist, Actress, Voice Over Artist & Wits Graduate in Anthropology & Media Studies

 

What does Hip-Hop mean to you?

Hip-Hop is a lifestyle and way of living. It moulds one’s mind, behaviour and experiences. It allows for wisdom to be spread by the oppressed. It allows for victory to be attained by the hopeless.

When did you decide to get into the game? Your favourite single so far?

I was sixteen, so back in the year 2010. My favourite single is definitely my debut for 2017 titled ‘My Ugly Boy’ produced by new kid on the block, J Twinn. I can’t wait!

How’s your 2017 looking like?

Packed from brands, to music, to new business ventures for myself as well as my company, Hart Roc Entertainment. It’s going to be a crazy year for Hip-Hop and the rest of the industry. Endorsements, projects and of course, the #GigiGoesGold saga continues.

Who inspires you in the South African music industry?

Brenda Fassie, Lebo Mathosa and Miriam Makeba.

The awesome thing about being a female rapper is?

You get to train twice as hard to beat the guys. 🙂

Do you believe Hip-Hop and fashion go together? If yes, how so?

I honestly do. Fashion has always been a huge part of the Hip-Hop culture. As with any culture, apparel is of significance. We find so many people denying this fact, however, to belong holistically to any way of life, one has to embody the physical and mental aspects of it. This is fashion.

Fame or fortune?

Fortune.

What do you believe your industry still needs to do in order to improve?

Working together and thinking beyond South Africa.

What would you love to achieve this year?

Domination.

Follow Gigi!

Instagram: @gigi_lamayne

Twitter: @Gigi_Lamayne

Facebook: Gigi Lamayne

 

–Bridgette Makhela

Mariechan Luiters On Going Solo, Years In The Industry And What She’s Focused On Next

Mariechan Luiters / Singer & Entrepreneur

Tell your story of you how you found yourself in the music industry…

It’s all destiny. It goes like this…My music teacher overheard me singing in a girl’s restroom without me knowing and she encouraged me to sing publicly. I then tried once for Popstars and once for Idols but I wasn’t ready. Then, I gave it one more shot as my confidence grew and tried out for Popstars again. This time it was definitely destiny because when I arrived, they had locked the doors and not letting anyone else in and then someone saw me as I was walking away and remembered me from the previous year. In a nutshell, I made it to the finals with my group Jamali and the rest is history.

Where is Mariechan originally from?

From the foothills of Stellenbosch, some of the most beautiful geography in the world, I believe.

How many years have you been in the industry and what’s the most important thing you’ve learnt?

It’s going on 13 years and I am still loving it like a kid in a candy shop. I’ve learnt that if you want something, you need to go get it yourself.

How has the transition from being in a group to doing the solo thing been?

I am learning every day. When I started it was the era of the record label doing everything, now the individual artist has to be responsible for their brand’s trajectory.

The biggest highlight of your solo career so far?

Being the first woman of colour to sing the welcoming National Anthem at the New Zealand Rugby match in front of like 50,000 people.

That collaboration you would really still love to do?

With Rihanna, Adele, Beyonce, Drake, Wizkid, it would be magic.

Do you still get nervous before a performance?

Yes, and I think it shows I still care.

What are you focusing on next?

Next I am focusing on building my foundation and my entrepreneurial ventures while continuing to build the brand Mariechan in the industry, it’s an exciting period of my career.

Fame or fortune? Select one…

Fortune, this way I can build a legacy for others, not just for me.

Follow Mariechan!

Instagram: @mariechanl

Twitter: @MariechanL

Facebook: Marichan Luiters

 

–Bridgette Makhela

Nape Phasha On Life Since Vuzu Rich Kids

Nape Phasha Jnr
22
Political Sciences Graduate (University of Pretoria) / Currently studying towards a Law Degree (Wits University)

Where’s home for Nape?
Pretoria East.

Since Vuzu Rich Kids, what have you been up to, anything exciting?
Being on Vuzu Rich Kids was a great experience. For me, it was beyond just appearing on TV, but the opportunities that would come with the experience. Since doing the show, I have been mapping out my path in the industry. It’s very important to be true to myself and not try to emulate what everyone is doing, which is why I’ve spent some time crafting my next steps. I’ve also been focusing on my studies, which is very high on my priority list.

Has life changed for you in any way since being on a reality TV show, groupies maybe? Lol
Haha! I wouldn’t call it groupies, but being on the show came with a lot of attention. Everyone has just been supportive, so it’s all love, lol.

Favourite book to read?
The Art of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli

It’s the month of love…Any special lady in your life? Any tips for the fellas on how to spoil their better half?
My advice to anyone would be to keep your person happy with the little things, before attempting to be romantic. The secret is in the art of keeping your lady happy on a daily basis.

Ultimate travel destination would be?
It would have to be New York and Barcelona, mainly because both destinations have a bit of everything, from the shopping, to the rich culture.

All-time favourite sneakers?
Yo, this is a tough one because they change weekly…but right now – Jordan 11 Bred and the Yeezy 750 Black.

What do you never leave the house without?
My cellphone.

What does family meant to you?
Family to me is everything; they are supportive and keep me grounded. I also happen to be very close to my mom, her love really knows no bounds.

Any future projects you just might wanna reveal?
I’m working on a lot of projects due this year. I think people will finally get to know the real Nape as I’ve made sure that I pursue projects that I’m passionate about. My first project is actually launching this month, while I’m also finalizing plans for a TV/fashion project which is due to drop later on in the year.

(Photography cred: WorthAThovsandWords)

 

–Bridgette Makhela