Latest news with #amapiano
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 (@
News24
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
Scotts Maphuma acknowledges mistake in heartfelt apology to disappointed fans
Fame is a double-edged sword, while it brings adoration, it also demands accountability. In the entertainment industry, fans are the ultimate gatekeepers of an artist's career - love them and they will lift you up; neglect them, and they'll tear you down. Scotts Maphuma's incident serves as a stark reminder that in today's digital age, artists are just one misstep away from being cancelled by the very fans who once adored them. In a recent turn of events, South African amapiano sensation Scotts Maphuma has issued an apology to his fans after facing backlash for his behaviour towards them. The controversy began when a video surfaced online showing Scotts reacting negatively to requests for photos, with many labelling him as 'rude' and 'ungrateful.' The video which sparked widespread criticism, showed Maphuma visibly frustrated and dismissive when approached by fans for photos. Following the video was the podcast Scotts attended hosted by L-Tido and even there Maphuma showed no remorse whatsoever for his actions as he was adamant on not 'owing anyone anything.' Many took to social media to express their hurt and disappointment, feeling that Maphuma's behaviour was unprofessional and unappreciative of his supporters. View this post on Instagram A post shared by l_tido 🇿🇦 (@l_tido) This led to many of bookings being cancelled by establishments as patrons remained adamant on 'cancelling' another case if he was successfully booked and performing on stage, the audience would often times disregard him and give him no time of the day, which many referred to as 'karma.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by VOGUE LOUNGE 014🇿🇦 (@voguelounge014) want to take a moment to sincerely apologize to all my supporters. I've let some of you down, and I take full responsibility. Growth comes with owning your mistakes and I'm committed to doing better, for myself and for you. Thank you for still believing in me. — Real Scotts Maphuma (@RealScotts_M) May 7, 2025 According to many, Maphuma's apology may have been influenced by a meeting he recently had with industry veteran, Oskido, a renowned South African DJ, record producer, and musician. In his apology, Scotts acknowledged that he had let some of his supporters down and took full responsibility for his actions. He expressed a commitment to doing better in the future, stating, 'I want to take a moment to sincerely apologise to all my supporters. I've let some of you down, and I take full responsibility. Growth comes with owning your mistakes and I'm committed to doing better, for myself and for you.' Many supporters have welcomed Maphuma's apology, appreciating his willingness to listen and learn from his mistakes.
