PH On 12 Years In The Industry, Gotta Go Single And Upcoming Projects

PH Madubela / 32 / DJ

Why did you pick the DJ route?

Music is my life, without music I’d probably be sitting at a desk somewhere dreaming about music. 

Over the past 12 years in the industry, what moment still stands out for you?

It’s hard to pick out one singular event and say that was “THE MOMENT”, it’s been a series of small achievements which snowballed into recently being at the forefront of a game changing show which provided relief and entertainment to millions of people in South Africa.

Your latest single ‘Gotta Go’, how did you pick the features on it and what’s the song about?

It’s all been fun and interesting. Tumi and I have been sitting on this song for just under two years. We’ve gone back and forth about who would sit well as a feature. I was recording another song at Da L.E.S’ house when he heard the beat, I then asked him if he would jump on, and 30 minutes later we had a fire verse from him. Kiddo C is special. I was scrolling on Instagram when I saw one of his many freestyles that I liked. I sent him the beat and later that day he sent me his verse, and that’s how the song came about. The song is about having good clean fun, homies wanting to hit the coast, party it up and head back home afterwards.

Following the success of Lockdown House Party, any projects you’re working on?

I’ve been bitten by the TV producer bug. I’m really liking TV and the back of TV shows. There’s something I’m currently working on that will come to light next year. I’m excited for that.

You’re an award winning DJ, does the title come with a lot of pressure?

That’s a thing of the past now. We are in a new year with new challenges. It was great to receive recognition from industry peers. However, I have to earn that title once again. 

What’s your ultimate favourite song?

Common & Kanye West – Go. I will never get tired of that song. And don’t tell anyone (for real for real) Natasha Bedingfield – These Words. That’s my sh**

How do you generally prepare for a big show?

Big or small show, I need to know the demographics, that’s always a good start. Apart from that, I’m always prepared musically. The mood is never the same, so you need to stay ready and stay flexy. 

Any more music you’re set to release before 2020 ends?

Yeah, one more song, or the EP, I’m really undecided. I’m also waiting for one or two more features then we are good to go with the EP.

One thing your fans don’t know about you is…?

It has to remain that way, they must know it!

Follow PH!

Instagram: @iam_ph

Twitter: @iam_ph

Facebook: @IAMPH

-Bridgette Makhela

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