Latest news with #3-Step
IOL News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Amid the 3-Step debate, let the music take centre stage: why we need an archive, not a war
As producers, DJs, music writers, curators and listeners, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to document the evolution of the 3-Step sound. Image: Pexels/Barthy A lot is happening on social media lately, and when it comes to music, one debate just won't die down: who invented 3-Step? Earlier this year, I reported on the headline-making saga titled 'Heavy-K's 3-Step sound controversy: a social media battle royale over musical origins'. In it, the renowned producer, best known for the hit 'Inde', ignited a passionate online storm by asserting his role in the creation of the 3-Step genre, a rising force in the Afro-house movement. Born Mkhululi Siqula, Heavy-K didn't mince his words, boldly claiming: 'Everyone has a right to claim whatever or have their own opinions about a sound!" "But the reality is I'm the blueprint! I've been doing this sound way before and been switching it around in every way!' And that was just the beginning. Months later, he's still doubling down on those claims. More recently, his latest online exchange with fellow hitmaker Prince Kaybee reignited the fire. Kaybee, too, insists that he helped pioneer the sound - and their back-and-forth on Facebook has taken a sharp turn into full-blown insults, with the two trading swear words and jabs. But it's no longer just between them. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Other South African artists have now joined the battle, offering their perspectives and naming their own unsung heroes of 3-Step, some crediting overlooked producers who refined and popularised the genre, others defending those who laid the initial foundation. Frankly, it's getting exhausting. This debate, while initially illuminating, is beginning to overshadow the music itself. What once may have been a constructive conversation about artistic influence and musical evolution has turned into a tiresome ego contest. And the sad part is, it's all happening while the sound itself is thriving and evolving beyond borders. Instead of constantly fighting over who made it first, why not celebrate how far it has come? 3-Step is no longer just about its creators; it's about the people. It's a genre that resonates on dancefloors, fills streets and taverns and pulses through car speakers in townships and suburbs alike. Listeners have adopted it, embraced it and added their own meaning to it. The true power of 3-Step lies in how it moves the crowd, not in whose signature is on its blueprint. It's time we start archiving, not arguing.
IOL News
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Will 3-Step become the new sound of Mzansi, overshadowing Amapiano?
With chart-topping hits, Jazzworx and Thukuthela are making waves, prompting fans to wonder if their sound, predominantly referred to as 3-Step, could signal the end of Amapiano's reign. Image: File The South African music scene is in a constant state of evolution, but right now, all eyes are on the rising stars Jazzworx and Thukuthela (real names Kamohelo Monese and Kgotso Dube, respectively). With chart-topping hits like 'Isaka (6am)', 'Vuka', and 'Uzizwa Kanjani', these artists are making waves, prompting fans to wonder if their sound, predominantly referred to as 3-Step, could signal the end of Amapiano's reign. As the beat of 3-Step pulses through the airwaves, it's crucial to understand what defines this emerging genre. Basically, 3-Step differentiates itself with a unique rhythmic structure that favours a compelling three-kick-drum pattern, breaking away from the conventional four-on-the-floor beats typical of house music. Its charm lies in the unexpected - with shuffling shakers, spontaneous snare rolls, log drums, and a multitude of layered percussion instruments, the sound conjures a vibrant, hypnotic environment. Unlike many of today's rigid music formats, 3-Step feels energetic and alive, comparable to a live jam session where numerous musicians contribute their magic in real-time. This dynamic genre has its roots firmly planted in South Africa, a cradle for diverse musical expressions. While DJ Thakzin is often credited with the origin and refinement of this captivating sound, the brilliance of 3-Step lies in the collaborative nature of its growth. A plethora of talented producers and DJs have embraced and further developed this style, broadening its appeal both locally and internationally. The dialogue around whether 3-Step can replace Amapiano isn't simply about competition; it showcases a community of artists evolving together. Interestingly, the collaboration extends to Amapiano DJs, who are now incorporating 3-Step into their sets, suggesting a merging of genres rather than outright rivalry. This fusion denotes a unifying movement within Afro-house and Amapiano, expanding the sonic landscape for both artists and listeners alike. However, can the strength of 3-Step truly eclipse the allure of Amapiano? We believe that while the sound is indeed captivating, it is unlikely to force out the beloved Amapiano. Instead, the emergence of 3-Step may invigorate the local music scene and breathe fresh life into established genres, paving the way for greater collaboration rather than competition. Here are a few reasons why: Diverse influence The beauty of Amapiano lies in its versatility. While 3-Step may appeal to a specific audience, Amapiano seamlessly integrates various musical styles, making it accessible and relatable to everyone, from the youth in urban settings to older generations. This cross-generational appeal is an asset that ensures Amapiano's enduring popularity. A global movement Amapiano's influence has broken geographical boundaries, garnering immense popularity beyond the shores of Mzansi. The genre has found enthusiastic audiences in Africa, Europe, and various parts of the Americas, showcasing a global appeal that is difficult for emerging sounds to rival. International superstars such as Beyoncé have spotlighted Amapiano by playing tracks from artists like Uncle Waffles during their tours. Other notable names like Drake, Kelly Rowland, Jorja Smith, Ciara, and Chris Brown have also openly celebrated their admiration for the genre, fostering a wave of international recognition that 3-Step has yet to attain.
