Latest news with #DJMaphorisa
News24
27-05-2025
- Business
- News24
Ami Faku's music journey: From her sonic evolution to being business savvy
Ami Faku says the right team and separating logic from emotions is crucial in surviving the music business. She says the bond she creates collaborating with fellow artists is what shines through in her art. Ami is working on her next album and will be performing at the Sunset Music Series on 1 June. ________________________________________________________________________ From an Eastern Cape church girl to becoming the voice of amapiano's renaissance, Amandu 'Ami' Faku's creative talent speaks volumes. She has been a steady presence in South African music since being featured on chart-topping tracks like Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa's Abalele and Asibe Happy, whether she's songwriting or blending her melodic harmonies with the log beats and synths of arguably South Africa's most recognisable music export. Now with five years under her belt making hits and bagging awards, the 32-year-old artist is honing her craft, more intentional than ever about surrounding herself with the right people in her team and giving her audience what they want. Ami admittedly describes herself as 'very upfront' - whether it's putting her all in her music or making herself heard during our conversation over the rumbunctious personalities doing her hair at the salon. Learning the art of business and music The entertainment and subsequent music industry is no walk in the park, especially if one is surrounded by those who might not have your best interests at heart. It has been reported that Ami launched legal proceedings against her manager and his record label citing alleged lack of financial transparency and unpaid royalties. Steering clear from the subject, the musician instead gave TRUELOVE some insight into how she has grown regarding her approach to the technical and business side of music, while staying true to her passion and integrity. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ami Faku (@ami_faku) 'I've grown in terms of just knowing my weaknesses and strengths and not being afraid to ask questions. For instance, the business side of things is extremely important. And also knowing that being emotional is - when it comes to the business - it's not about that. So, separating the two, with the music you can be [emotional] but with business you have to use logic and sense.' Ami continues, 'So I've taken my part in every day trying to learn the business side of things. And knowing when to ask questions and what to ask. And also just having the right team is extremely important, especially for your business. So, understanding that has done a great number for me. Because I wasn't good at that, so I knew I wasn't, so I took my time to just work on that.' Trusting her instincts Ami's latest projects include soulful harmonies with artists like Nkosazana Daughter intertwined with expertly curated beats from producers like Black Coffee, MashBeatz and Karyendasoul. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ami Faku (@ami_faku) She is intentional about who she works with, explaining that building relationships, a connection and a bond with fellow creatives gives that art that much more meaning. Ami says, 'Connection is very important. Relationships are extremely important and that's what I prioritise. So, when you don't have that bond with people, it lacks in the art. So, for me, I've realised through just always working with people that, that's super important in just general, generally in everything you do in life.' Something new on the horizon Many are still waiting in the wings for another full album project from the musician since her 2019 release Imali, and Ami assures her supporters that it is well on the way. 'Because it's been too long,' she acknowledges. But for now, fans can look forward to seeing her at the Johannesburg edition of the Sunset Music Series, set to be held at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden on Sunday, 1 June 2025 alongside the Thugela Fairy, Sonini songstress Simmy. 'Mostly I'm looking forward to just performing with the full band,' Ami shares. 'That usually is not how I perform, so when I'm getting the opportunity to, that really makes me excited because then there's a connection that we all have, and we've played for over five years together, so it's gonna be a fun for us and as well for the audience.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sunset Music Series (@
IOL News
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Amapiano in the limelight: Africa Awards to celebrate the beat that conquered the world
The first annual Africa Awards, recognising the sound and cultural influence of Amapiano, will take place in November. Image: Instagram Amapiano is a popular music genre originating from South Africa. This locally crafted genre consistently tops charts and dominates airwaves, having also gained international recognition and a global fan base. It is more than just a genre; it has become a cultural phenomenon and an expression of creativity. Its infectious beats are crafted by passionate, success-hungry upcoming artists and producers. For some, it's a way of life. From the 'OG's' to the breakout talent, everyone creates music from the soul, with songs that reach stardom. The genre's global appeal can be attributed to its unique blend of piano keys and log drums, which have touched the hearts of many. However, Amapiano is more than just its catchy beats; it is also about the message it carries. The lyrics often speak to the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of the artists, resonating with listeners worldwide. Globally recognised artists like Tyler ICU, DJ Maphorisa, and Kabza De Small have played a significant role in propelling the Amapiano sound to greater heights. Tyler ICU's 'Mnike' is a prime example, reaching global heights and even becoming one of Rihanna's favourite songs. The influence of Amapiano extends to social media platforms like TikTok, where dance challenges to Amapiano songs have become a staple, with people from different countries enjoying and participating in them. The genre's popularity has led to dedicated events in countries like the UK and Australia, featuring South African DJs playing their hits. This global recognition proves the genre's power to unite people across cultures and borders. In celebration of this remarkable genre, the Amapiano Africa Awards are set to make history this November. The inaugural event will take place on November 15 at Sun City Resort. The awards promise to be a night to remember, featuring lively performances, glamorous red carpet moments, and the crowning of excellence across various categories, such as Best Vocalist, Producer of the Year, Best Amapiano Street Dancer, and International Breakthrough Artist. The awards are more than just a celebration, they are a statement about the beloved genre's influence on pop culture, youth identity, and economic growth. A cultural landmark that pays tribute to the voice, rhythm, and spirit of a generation. Fans and industry leaders can look forward to a series of media activations and country launch events that will bring the Amapiano movement to life across key African cities. The nominations will soon be open, inviting fans, artists, and stakeholders to take part in shaping history. The Amapiano Africa Awards are a movement that celebrates innovation, inspires unity, and secures Amapiano's place on the world stage. Prepare to witness the best of Amapiano come together in a celebration that will leave a lasting impact on the music industry.
IOL News
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Scorpion Kings DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small to host historic amapiano concert at Loftus Versfeld
Top music producers DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small who perform as the DJ duo Scorpion Kings. The duo is gearing up for a historic concert aiming to sell-out Loftus Stadium. Picture: Instagram/@djmaphorisa Image: Instagram/@djmaphorisa DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small are South African music pioneers, whose careers have set them apart. In another step, affirming the duo's plans of cementing an everlasting legacy, they have taken on a bold initiative to take over Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Scorpion Kings Live with Friends is set to be a monumental sing-a-long live music festival that will see over 50,000 fans unite in Pretoria for a night that pays homage to the meteoric rise of Amapiano - from South Africa's township roots to the world's biggest stages. The DJs describe Scorpion Kings Live with Friends as a celebration of a movement, the culture of music through their lens as The Kings. 'It's not just a performance, it's a moment that honours music and how that music has impacted us and how it's impacted amapiano as a genre. It's going to be a showcase of the power of collaboration, which in essence is who we are,' shared the musicians. This is Scorpion Kings' first major show together since July 2022, for the musician icons, the show is about cementing their role as pioneers, owning their narrative, and showing that no matter where you come from, your dream has no limits. 'We've built something that belongs to us. It's our sound, our voice, our movement. Scorpion Kings Live with Friends is about unity, culture, power, and world-class music. It's history in the making,' said DJ Maphorisa. Produced by industry-leading creatives and supported by cutting-edge stage design, fans can expect a multi-sensory experience that combines state-of-the-art production with world-class performances. 'The same way amapiano is rooted in collaboration, we are collaborating with the best of the best, this isn't a regular show, it won't just be a DJ set. 'We are curating an experience like no other, which includes various performances from various genres including iconic acts to showcase a magnification spectacle,' they said. When it comes to putting the live music experience together, Scorpion Kings, are deeply involved in every part of the creative process, from music selection, stage design, and lighting to sound, hand in hand with the best in the game. 'This show is a reflection of who we are, so we made sure every detail aligns with our vision.
