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

 

Shelton ‘Forbez’ Salie On New Music, His Next Move And Being An Entertainer

Shelton ‘Forbez’ Salie / 24 / Entertainer

You’re a well-known face already, how did you find your way into the industry?

I have been in the industry for a very long time. I did my first music video for Tuks with ‘Monate Thwaa’ in 2006 and since then I’ve been working…It went from dancing to TV commercials, then acting and presenting, so I’d say I got to where I am through dance.

One word to describe your time at Vuzu would be?

Dope!

What are you focusing on right now?

Right now I am focused on building the Shelton Forbez brand and music.

Your new single ‘Smoke’, how has it been received so far?

It has been received amazingly. The girls get it, haha!

Any new exciting projects you’re working on right now?

Yes, I have started my own event where by I provide a platform for untapped music talent.

You’re a dancer too; tell me more about that…

It began in 2004, but only professionally in 2006, with music videos. I’ve appeared in about fifteen music videos in total. I have also choreographed for Danny K and opened up for Akon and Trey Songz, so dance is my first love.

Favourite clothing item?

Sneakers.

Your thoughts on the current South African music industry status?

I think we are in a really good place, still work to be done but it’s at a great place.

Jackets or Jays? Select one

Jackets.

Follow Shelton!

Instagram: @sheltonforbez

Twitter: @SheltonForbez

Facebook: Shelton Forbez

 

–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

 

Get To Know Khathu, DJ And Funny Guy

Khathu Litshani

27

Mix DJ / Comedian / Radio Producer / Record Label Owner / Music Producer  

Firstly, what’s Khathu all about?

Khathu is about happiness and spreading good vibes, a very easy going kinda guy who works hard and gives life his all.

You’re known all over social media for your ‘Abuti Nice Time’ funny videos, how did you start the movement?

My videos began when I was promoting an event I was hosting. I uploaded a video inviting people to come party with me…The manner and accent in which I made the video was what  got people talking, so from that first video people requested me to upload more videos, I gave in and from then on it has just been video after video and I’m loving it!

Your funny videos opened up some big doors, how did this come about?

My videos helped open up a lot of doors for me within the South African entertainment industry. I got deals from big companies wanting me to represent their brands, wanting to work with me and they also helped with growing my DJ career, as I started getting more bookings and traveling more. I started getting noticed by a lot of people and brands.

Being a DJ, what negative factors does the title come with?

Being a DJ isn’t easy, especially when it comes to relationships because there is a stigma attached to the career; which is that all DJs are players and cannot be trusted…which is not true. Besides that, there are not a lot of challenges, I enjoy my work!

How has your new single ‘Love Her Like She Ain’t Mine featuring Vugar M Beats and Kidd Nemo been received so far?

My single Love Her Like She Ain’t Mine has been received very well and is on a few charts and radio stations.  Although I have not full on executed the PR and Marketing plan for it, the love is amazing. Ladies love it, the gents jam to it so I’m happy…I’ll be shooting a video for it in the next few weeks, it’s the second single from my upcoming EP that will drop on the 14th of August, which is also my birthday.

Any more music that your fans can expect soon?

2016 sees DJ Khathu dropping an EP with about eight tracks. So more hits, more timeless music and out of this world music videos.

You’re always making people laugh, what makes Khathu laugh?

As much as people see me as the funny guy and always wonder what makes me laugh, it really is just people, people are so special. I also always look on the bright side of any situation that gets presented to me.

A burger or pap?

As a proud Venda man, I have to say pap!

What are some of the goals you are working towards achieving?

I have a lot of goals set out for the future, but some of my 2016 goals are to grow my business, invest in some property, release more music and never stop gigging!

Follow Khathu!

Instagram: @djkhathu

Twitter: Dj_khathu

Facebook: Dj khathu / Khathu DjKhathu Litshani (Dj-khathu) / Khathu DjKhathu Litshani II

 

–Bridgette Makhela