Tellaman On His New Single, South African Artists And His Dream For 2017

Thelumusa Samuel Owen aka Tellaman / 25 / Singer, Songwriter & Producer

When can you say you made a recognizable mark in the music industry?

2016 was the year for me. A lot of people started recognizing Tellaman as a musician then. I released a mixtape titled ‘Mind vs Heart’ and I was featured on Dj Speedsta’s hit single titled ‘Mayo’, which was one of the biggest songs of 2016. I was also a part of the most anticipated album of 2016 titled ‘Bad Hair’ by Nasty C.

Was this always the path you wanted in life?

No it was not. I had other interests when I was younger, such as playing soccer. I was introduced to music by a friend who was making beats, I used to watch him work all the time. I then started making beats as well; eventually I realized my love for making music. I then decided to pursue it as a career.

Why the name Tellaman?

Tellaman is a nickname that was given to me by my friends, it comes from my real name Thelumusa. I decided to stick with it because a lot of people know it and it carries so many memories.

Your new single ‘Dandy’, how is it being received so far?

The response has been really amazing, I can’t even put it into words. I really appreciate the love and support my people are giving me, I am grateful.

Do you have a favourite project that you’ve worked on so far?

Yes, ‘Lucid Dream’ is my favourite project so far. I think I have grown as a musician and that’s always been the motive.

Your dream for 2017?

To see my family and I doing great, and that is not just my dream for this year; it’s just my all-time dream.

What’s the one thing you wish you could change about South African artists?

I wish we’d stop releasing bad quality music. Mixing and mastering is as good as making the song.

Music or Money?

Music, because when you make good music, the money follows.

Any more dope music from you coming soon?

Yes! New collaborations are coming soon. I really cannot wait for you guys to hear it.

 

Follow Tellaman!

Instagram: @real_tellaman

Twitter: @Real_Tellaman

Facebook: Real Tellaman

 

–Bridgette Makhela

 

Anatii On His Brand, Music And The ARTIIFACT Album

Anathi Bhongo Mnyango / 23 / Artist

When did you decide to bring the brand Anatii into the industry?

In 2010.

How has your journey in the music industry been so far?

I have been blessed with my journey so far, and I am proof that talent and hard work are a winning combination.

2016 has been an awesome year for you, already got plans for 2017?

Yes, without giving away too much, fans can expect more music both from me as an artist and as a producer, ARTIIFACT tour and some special surprises along the way.

You managed to bring US star Omarion on a South African Tour with you, how did that come about?

I was having dinner with him while in Los Angeles after our session, and I jokingly said “Why don’t you come out for the launch of my album?” He was like “Let’s do it!” The rest is history.

Any more future Anatii and Omarion collaborations to look forward to?

Nothing definitive yet, but Omarion and I have an open working relationship.

Your ARTIIFACT album has received so much love, is this how you expected things to turn out?

I never expect any of my work to be a “hit” right out the gate; I just do my best and ensure that the work is true to my vision and ability.

What gets you up and grinding every morning?

Life, there’s so much to be grateful for and so much I want to accomplish. So I know I have to push hard every day to get closer to achieving the goals I have for myself.

Your current favourite South African Hip-Hop song?

Besides myself, ‘Lifestyle’ ft. Gemini Major by Da L.E.S.

Who is the real Anatii?

What you see is what you get. I’m a spiritually conscious individual, who is always looking to better himself and those around me.

Follow Anatii!

Instagram: @anatii

Twitter: @ANATII

Facebook: Anatii

–Bridgette Makhela

 

Ayanda Thabethe On Her Modeling, Acting, TV Hosting And Entrepreneurial Career

Ayanda Thabethe

Actress | TV Host | Model | Entrepreneur

Who is Ayanda?

A lover of God, family and friends. Ambitious and carving my own path, my own way.

How did you break into the modeling industry?

After many closed doors, due to my height and lack of exposure, I reached out to a friend who happened to know my current agency head. He then put us in contact with each other and when she saw my pictures, she immediately signed me to the agency under which I now work under.

Was it a surprise to be selected as an E! Africa Television host?

A complete surprise and an absolute honour and privilege. I had worked with the team before on a production for SABC 1, a movie called Zion. They remembered me from then and called me for E!, much to my amusement and delight.

Any other avenues you are focusing on this year?

I’m focusing on my Marketing agency Buzzworthy that I have been running with my business partner for over a year now. We are seeing great strides in the business and just want to continue with the momentum. I’m also quite excited for my BIG acting debut on one of South Africa’s leading drama series, Rockville, as a lead.

Being a model for Khosi Nkosi, how did that come about?

I suppose when you are being authentic and running your own race people get drawn to you as a person, so I suppose that’s what happened with Khosi Nkosi. I just received a call regarding being the face of their Autumn range and I couldn’t say no. The brand fit was just right. Khosi Nkosi speaks to the woman that is taking strides, owning her talent and is a go-getter, I believe that describes me perfectly. Needless to say, the campaign was a hit!

How do you maintain your fitness and health?

I really struggle in this department, for me it’s a matter of trying, falling off and getting back again. I try my best to eat healthy but I have an extremely sweet tooth which is a big problem. Otherwise I exercise with my mates as often as possible. I do enjoy spinning quite a lot.

Music or milk?

Music… It soothes the soul in a way that nothing else can.

Who makes you laugh?

Nothing gets me like a good quality conversation with great sense of humour.

Describe your life in one word…

Grace.

Favourite quote?

“It takes a long time to become an overnight success.”

Follow Ayanda!

Instagram: @ayandathabethe_

Twitter: @ayandathabethe_

 

–Bridgette Makhela