YoungstaCPT On DDPB Album, Y?GEN And Career Highlights

Why the name ‘Dreams Don’t Pay Bills’?

YoungstaCPT: The pandemic really shifted things for artists and humanity alike. I think for artists specifically, we were spoiled. We were protected and sheltered, our lifestyles were funded by shows, tours and other endeavours. When all of that came to an end, we had to scramble for an alternative. Luckily I had a shop, we were still selling merchandise, sneakers and everything else. Once the pandemic hit, it did make things a bit slower for us. I only got the shop in 2019 so I traded for nine months without Covid, and two years with Covid! It taught me lot, especially in terms of being a business man. I realized my dreams are still valuable, but I have to be more aggressive in actioning them, making them possible and turning them into material things that I can see. I should always be able to give something to my mom, pay the crew and pay the rent. The name of the album came from that desperation. I felt like I had to hustle like back when I started in 2010. Desperate times, desperate measures.

How did you and Shaney Jay meet?

Shaney Jay: We met in 2019 at a show. My friend told me Youngsta was in the parking lot so I went to go and take a photo with him and a year later, he opened up the studio and I was told he wanted to see me and here we are today. I had been producing for about 6 years before that. When Youngsta listened to my production on songs like Shane Eagle’s ‘AMMO’, he sent for me and it’s been a pleasure working with him so far.

Do you have a favourite feature on the album?

YoungstaCPT: Every song captures each person’s quality, personality and skill set. But, the song with DJ Ready D and Emile YX from Black Noise does something to me. This is probably the first time they make a song together and for me, it’s the significance of the song and what the two as pioneers of Hip Hop mean to us as Capetonians.

As a South African product, what is different about your Y?GEN clothing line?

YoungstaCPT: It’s not really dictated by trends, it is meant for someone who dresses according to what they like. In Cape Town, just because everyone wears something, it doesn’t mean we’ll all wear it, we have a certain image and specific style (there’s a whole documentary about this) and I’ve brought that into my clothing line, my raps and into the music videos too. I don’t dress like a rich rapper, I’ve kept my style grounded and kept to what I like.

Describe music in your own words…

Shaney Jay: It’s a feeling, if you make a hyped up song, you feel hyped, if you make an emotional song, you feel emo. That’s why us as creators play a big role in how the listener will feel, music is about feelings.

Would you say your highlight of 2021 is the album?

YoungstaCPT: I would say the Street Fever deal, acting in and having my music played on Blood & Water (S2) and of course, the new album.

Follow Youngsta CPT!

Instagram: @youngstacpt

Twitter: @YoungstaCpt

Facebook: @YoungstaCpt

-Bridgette Makhela

Amanda Black On New Single, Forthcoming Album And Career Highlights

Amanda Black / Singer & Songwriter

Who is Amanda Black?

A South African musician from the Eastern Cape.

What is the message in your new single ‘Kutheni Na’ featuring Kwesta?

I am venting, talking about how I feel and what I’m going through. There are so many things happening and sometimes I find myself not understanding how to make sense of all the changes we’re going through. It’s all about me being honest with myself. I want people to be okay with not being okay. Kwesta also came on and was honest too in the song and I appreciate that.

Your forthcoming ablum, ‘Mnyama’, tell us the process it took to create this body of work?

When I began making these songs, it wasn’t an album. I just needed to say something and express myself. I decided this year to make an album with all these songs I made during lockdown. The process was about my journey and how I feel. I wanted to be vulnerable and bare. It was about showing my emotions throughout the songs. I needed to be gentle towards myself and I believe it will resonate with people when they listen.

Your journey so far, a highlight that stands out?

Winning my first awards in 2017, such as the SAMAs. Working with the likes of Yvonne Chaka Chaka, and Anthony Hamilton as well as being nominated for a BET award (hearing Nomzamo say my name at the BETs was everything) and being on the Essence stage (it was virtual but amazing). It’s only my fifth year in the industry but it’s been a beautiful journey so far.

What would you say the South African music industry is doing right in 2021?

I’m seeing artists being fearless, owning themselves and the work they do and it’s going to ripple-effect into owning our stake in the industry. Artists have not taken the ownership as playmakers in the industry but I see it happening now. This is our industry, whatever happens is on us.

Where in the world would you still love to perform?

Everywhere in the world, lol. I’d absolutely love to perform at Madison Square Garden.

What would you say is your ex-factor?

My spirit, it’s the one thing that stands out across the board with every hat that I wear.

Consistency, how do you maintain it?

The people I keep around me, my team and the people that know me push me and keep me consistent. I love what I do and that also keeps me consistent because I remain myself always.

Pick one, money or a man?

I would pick “the man”.

How do your fans play a role in your life?

My fans literally come up to me and tell me how they relate to my music and how it heals them. All the love and support they show me is encouraging, I truly appreciate them.

Follow Amanda!

Instagram: @amandablacksa

Twitter: @AmandaBlackSA

Facebook: @amandablackofficial

-Bridgette Makhela

Nasty C On New Album Zulu Man With Some Power, His Journey And Hip Hop Culture

Nasty C / 23 / Rapper, Songwriter & Record Producer

Started From The Bottom Now You’re Here: How has your journey to where you are now been like?

It’s been interesting. Lots of ups, lot of downs. Good memories, some trauma and permanent damage too. I wouldn’t do it any other way though.

If Music Be The Food Of Love: What’s the message in your song ‘There They Go?’

Its addressing haters and people that like to doubt things with no proper reason. It’s about how I’ve grown a thick skin when it comes to haters and how I view them in my eyes.

In A Nutshell: Can you sum up what ‘Zulu Man With Some Power’ Means To You?

It means that I’m a man who understands what I am and where I come from, also understanding where I am going, which is a big deal for me especially with going global now. It also means that I am a person that understands that I have power. I want people to know that they too have power when they listen to this album, they can be kings, bosses and gods of their own worlds and they don’t have to live by other people’s standards.

Can You Keep A Secret: Share something no one knows about your music-making process?

I actually do a lot of writing in the shower, I don’t think a lot of people know that…

It’s Bigger Than Hip-Hop: What has Hip-Hop culture taught you?

It has taught me confidence, I doubt there’s another industry that needs confidence such as the one I’m in. People will give you all the love in the world when you have confidence.

Featuring: The features on the album, have a favourite one?

I like all of them, they are all so different. There are all types of songs, different feels and different styles as well.

On The Real Though: Please drop some advice for upcoming artists…

Just stay true to who you are, that doesn’t mean that you have to be a 1000% different from another person, a lot of artists fail to understand this. Sometimes people don’t like who they are any way, so they try so hard to be so different and it’s out of pressure most times and you can’t blame them. Be patient, don’t look at what others have on their plate and keep focused, look ahead and keep going.

 

Follow Nasty C! 

Instagram: @nasty_csa

Twitter: @Nasty_CSA

Facebook: @nastyczzle

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Ambassadors For Mamelodi Sundowns’ #SingWithSundowns Share Thoughts On The Football Club Celebrating 50 Years

Warren Masemola:

You’ve made an amazing impact in the entertainment industry, why be an ambassador for Mamelodi Sundowns?

Apart from being a proud Pretorian from Soshanguve, I grew up a fanatic since a match I watched at ODI Stadium when I was just 7 years old.

What does Mamelodi Sundowns celebrating 50 years mean to you?

Celebrating 50 years of Mamelodi Sundowns for me means a well-engineered dream can sustain itself for generations.

What is Sing With Sundowns all about?

#SingWithSundowns is a national competition that seeks to promote music in all the official languages of South Africa. Contestants enter a song that stands a chance to win R30,000.00 each month, between R100,000.00 to R600,000.00, or the R1million grand prize. The winner of the grand prize shall be announced at the end of the year Gala Banquet.

What is your advice for entrants?

 The song must refer to names or any new names associated with Mamelodi Sundowns, be creative. No songs will be accepted if they contain improper, disrespectful or defamatory language. Contestants must send songs to www.sundownsfc.com

Andile Ncube:

You’re an avid sports fan, what stands out for you about Mamelodi Sundowns?

Sundowns is the standard bearer for success and inspiration. More than anything, it is a supporter’s team, it’s always been, but now with a social conscience.

You’ve experienced both the sports and entertainment worlds, how does being an ambassador for Sing With Sundowns feel like?

Whenever one has an opportunity to give back or to assist and be a part of something bigger than themselves, seeing a career established and rise is always a fulfilling feeling.

50 years and Mamelodi Sundowns is still standing, what do you believe is the club’s winning formula?

It’s not only the consistent wins on the field but it’s the club’s identity and allegiance with supporters in South Africa and beyond. The president and the Motsepe family have opened the doors and made everyone feel welcome and like family.

What are you most excited about when it comes to the competition?

Like Sundowns does on the field when they unleash and introduce new talent like Percy Tau or with Miss Sundowns when they empower young woman like Zozi, I want to see a star! Someone writing a song and putting it together in their bedroom somewhere in South Africa and hearing it being played by thousands at stadiums across this nation.

Lamiez Holworthy:

You’re doing great in the entertainment space, how has your journey been like?

A roller coaster really. But for the most part, it’s been amazing. Got my big break when I was on the verge of giving up and seeing how God and my ancestors have made all my dreams come true, it leaves me in awe.

What do you believe you represent by being one of the Sing With Sundowns ambassadors?

Authenticity. I am proudly and authentically Pretorian. I wear that on my shoulders and I grew up supporting Sundowns. But most importantly because I am a DJ, I have an ear for music so choosing a great song will come easy for me.

What’s your favourite thing about Mamelodi Sundowns?

How it brings people from all walks of life together.

Lindiwe Dube:

You’ve been in the Sports industry for a while, why this route?

I grew up in Daveyton a township in Ekurhuleni. That’s where my love for the beautiful game started. My passion for the sport increased over the years and I wanted to be more than just a football fan. I was inspired by one of the leading ladies in sport like Carol Tshabalala, to take up space in a in a male dominated industry.

As an ambassador for Sing With Sundowns, what are you most hopeful for?

I’m a firm believer in opportunities & empowerment. The #SingWithSundowns campaign will change people’s lives. The music competition is open for all South Africans, men and women. By simply submitting their Mamelodi Sundowns themed song in a language of their choice, including Xu and Khwe, could walk away with a whopping R1 million. I’m really looking forward to seeing lives transform and dreams coming true through this amazing project.

How do you think Mamelodi Sundowns maintains consistency?

The club has always invested in the best players in the world, they have great structures, an amazing coach, a great technical team and more importantly, they have a bevy of fans who fully support them through thick and thin. In recent years, they’ve rewarded them with 9 PSL titles, a CAF champions league and a CAF super cup title, amongst many other other accolades.

50 years of the the club, has this impacted your career in any way?

50 years of Masandawana has produced several players such as Percy Tau, Keagan Dolly and Bongani Zungu who now play in some of the top leagues in Europe. The club has empowered people on and off the pitch. The current Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi was a provincial finalist of the Miss Mamelodi Sundowns pageant, that just shows the brand is more than just about football.

 

Follow Mamelodi Sundowns!

Instagram: @sundownsfc

Twitter: @Masandawana

Facebook: @sundownsfc

Website: http://www.sundownsfc.co.za

 

-Bridgette Makhela 

Tresor On New Single, Creating Music And Nostalgia Album

Mukengerwa Tresor Riziki / Singer, Songwriter, Producer & Entrepreneur

You just released Thrill last month, what inspired the title?

The title was inspired by the incredible feeling of excitement and joy I get from living my dreams out loud and the amazing people I am blessed to be surrounded by.

You visited New York pre-lock down, what was the experience like?

The experience was really tense, the city was not alive and crazy like everyone knows New York. I was actually on my way to Los Angeles to record for a week and had to make a fast U-turn when the world started to shut down, luckily made it back home on time for lock down. That was a very hard decision because the trip was planned months prior, but it was the best choice we made.

Nostalgia made waves in the music industry, are you working on any new projects?

Yes, Nostalgia is such a special project that I am very proud of. I am working on a few amazing projects and will be announcing someone exciting news in the next two months.

How are you staying focused on your work during the lock down?

I am making sure I keep to my everyday routine, like it was before the Covid-19 madness. I wake up, exercise in the garden then hit my office for admin and stay up until late writing and producing songs in my studio at home. Sometimes it’s 18 working hours or even 24 working hours, so the rhythm hasn’t really changed. The creativity is keeping me sane. Also, it’s a super inspiring time creatively.

What does music mean to you?

Music is pretty much the essence of my being and core of my purpose.

How do you find the process of creating music?

The process of making music is a great spiritual journey. It’s uplifting, healing and a joy fountain.

Your story is an inspiring one, what keeps you grounded and focused?

My journey and where I come from keep me focused on the bigger vision and grounded to stay in touch with my core and values.

Do you have a favourite song from your catalogue so far?

This is a very hard one, my catalogue is growing and to be honest I don’t think I have written my favourite song yet. Things change as time goes by and the music keeps coming. For now I am enjoying ‘Thrill’.

Any hidden talent/s your fans may not know about?

I think I am a decent cook.

How do you plan on making a lasting legacy?

I plan on reviving glory days of African Pop music globally and uplift the next generation of African leaders in our youth.

Follow Tresor!

Instagram: @tresorofficial

Twitter: @tresoroffcial

Facebook: @tresor.official1

 

-Bridgette Makhela

 

Bongeziwe Mabandla On iimini, Preserving His Craft And 8 Years In The Industry

Bongeziwe Sipho Samkelwe Mabandla / 30 / Singer Songwriter

‘iimini’, what’s the meaning behind the album?

iimini means days. The album references different dates in the lifetime of a love relationship from the beginning to the end. With the title I wanted to acknowledge those memories and experiences. I documented a relationship at its crucial parts and marked the different moments of this. I wanted to show the good and bad parts of a relationship and what it really means to be in love.

You’ve been in the industry for about 8 years now, how important is consistency and originality to you?

I came into music very late. I was studying to be an actor when I fell in love with music. I look at the past 8 years as a huge learning curve for me. I have learnt so much about writing, composing music, live performing and the business side of music. I have wanted to show with each album that I am growing and changing.

What does your craft mean to you and how do you preserve it?

I have put a lot into being a musician. I have always wanted to be good at what I do. For me, I’m at artist first. I want to make art that evokes emotion and feelings. Creating moving art has been the biggest motivator for me, it comes before anything else.

Amongst other songs, ‘Zange’ made big waves, (it still is)…what inspired you to write it?

Zange was written about falling in love and how that feeling can make you feel like life is worth it. I wanted to capture the fuzzy feeling of how it feels to be in love. I wrote the words to the song at a time when I met someone and they completely changed my life.

Live performances or studio sessions?

I like both. I love how a song comes together in the studio- it’s so fascinating. I like live, but it can be unpredictable. The funny thing is when a live performance goes well, it’s the best feeling ever. I’m hoping to fall even more in love with performing live as I get better at it.

Favourite country to perform in and why?

South Africa is really important for me. I write music in Xhosa because of the pride I have about where I come from. I write music to inspire and empower my people and to stand for a culture and language that was at times disregarded by history.

Africa is bursting at the seams with musical talent, what drives you to keep going?

I love what I do. I respect creating work that takes time and effort. I love figuring and working out difficult things. The people that love my music are such an inspiration and a sense of encouragement to me to keep me going even when it gets difficult. I think I’m doing something from a real and honest place and I think people are looking for that kind of music that connects them with their inner world.

What would you love to be remembered for?

My kindness and compassion, and for songs that made people feel connected.

Any upcoming exciting news you’d like to share?

I’ve been really happy that iimini has come with so many visual aspects. There are still a few more visuals to share which I am really excited about.

Follow Bongeziwe Mabandla!

Instagram: @bongeziwemabandla

Twitter: @Bongeziwe

Facebook: @BongeziweMabandlaOfficial

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Ami Faku On Music, Ebhayi And Imali Album

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

ASA On New Music, Touring Africa And How She Got Discovered

ASA /  Singer, Songwriter & Musician  

 

You’ve recently had a busy time touring South Africa and Namibia, how do you prepare your performances for set shows? 

I warm up two hours before the show, then stay totally quiet for fifteen minutes before show time to visualize myself on stage.

Africa loves you, do you believe your music speak to fans beyond the continent?

Yes it does speak to fans beyond the continent.

How does a typical day look like for you?

A typical day for me is waking up at 5:30am, reading for two hours, then having coffee with Oma (my dog) next to me. Work out and then write in the studio until 3pm, then do some riding, painting, chatting or watch movies, it all depends on my mood. 

Your latest single, The Beginning, what’s the message there?

It is about pausing in life, in love and however the words speak to you. I don’t really like interpreting songs, as they mean different things to the listener. 

How did you get into the music industry?  

I had been writing songs and performing before I traveled to Paris. I got discovered by an Artist & Repertoire in Paris while performing and then got signed.

Anything exciting coming up that fans can expect from you?

I have just released ‘The Beginning’, the first single from my fourth studio album, which will be released in September.

 

What have you learnt from your journey in the industry so far? 

Always have the right and truthful people around you, it helps keep you grounded. 

Your advice to the young female out there inspired by you?

Be YOU! Never let anyone tell you what your story should be.  

Follow ASA!

Instagram: @asaofficial

Twitter: @Asa_official

Facebook: @asaofficial

–Bridgette Makhela 

All Praise To The Ghost: Sabelo Ncube On New Single ‘Ncube’ And Being An All-Round Artist

Sabelo Ncube / 31 / Musician, Performing Artist, Songwriter, Composer & Producer

You’ve just recently released your new single titled ‘Ncube’, how’s the response so far?

The response has been great, people have been waiting for this to drop so it’s a relief to see it so well received.

Any inspiration behind Ncube?

I am Ncube, so it’s inspired by my character, heritage and my family. I am a proud South African and I wanted that to resonate through this song.

When did you find your way into the rap game?

I started rapping in primary school and have been writing songs since I was 8. But I can say I’ve dedicated the past 5 years of my life solely to music.

As an artist, how do you put your body of work together and who would you like it to speak to?

Well music is vast and there are many genres. I like to capture an idea first and then break down all the things that make the idea what it is. So I do a lot of research, coupled with introspection and hope that somewhere in the balance, people will relate to the sound. I genuinely hope that my work speaks to anyone who loves music.

Why the name Ghost?

The name was given to me by my friends because I lived between Port Elizabth and Johannesburg and would sporadically appear and vanish on any given weekend. They started calling me “Los the lost Ghost from the East Coast and the West Coast”, clearly this wouldn’t work as a rap alias, so I shortened it to Ghost.

Have a specific favourite track from all the music you’ve released so far?

Hands down has to be my latest single Ncube.

Something people don’t know about you?

Lol. I’m not into clubs and crowds. I know, it’s weird for an artist.

Studio or live perfomances? Have a preference or are you in tune with both?

I absolutely love to create. That’s my zone. I’ve always said that I’m a studio artist because of my ability to relax and deliver on ANY mandate. But once that’s done, there’s nothing that beats the exhilaration of standing in front of  audiences and showcasing my art. So both. Haha.

The game plan for Ghost and music going forward?

To put it basically, The plan is to expose the world to an authentic South African artist, with a no-nonsense attitude to creating great music.

Follow Ghost!

Instagram: @papa.ghost

Twitter: @GHOSTGXNG

Facebook: Ghosty Ncube

Music Download Links:

https://itunes.apple.com/za/album/ncube-single/1406165349

https://play.google.com/music/m/Bxptyvaf7wlxa3l6h2mq5jgc2g4?t=Ncube_-_Ghost

–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