Latest news with #Mawhoo
The Star
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Family First makes a soulful return to the Amapiano scene with 'Intombi Yam'
Family First makes a powerful return to the Amapiano scene with the release of 'Intombi Yam,' a soulful single crafted alongside Zeenhle and Sykes that's already capturing hearts and setting the dance floors ablaze. Hailing from the vibrant city of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, Amapiano producer and entrepreneur Nzuzo Ndlovu, popularly known as Family First, continues to rise in South Africa's music scene. Reflecting on his journey into the Amapiano genre, Family First describes it as one filled with valuable lessons. 'The road hasn't always been smooth, but every bump has taught me something and helped me grow,' he shared. It's this growth, paired with his passion for slow-paced, soulful sounds, that fuels his creativity as a producer. The artist says his deep love for music is what led him to create soundscapes that resonate emotionally with his audience, a signature style now synonymous with his brand. 'I enjoy creating emotional music, something people can learn from or be positively impacted by. While I've done fast-paced tracks before, my heart lies in slow, soulful sounds. I believe love songs and emotional music have greater longevity and a deeper impact on people's lives,' said Family First. The artist shared that his latest single Intombi Yam is a heartfelt tribute to love and cultural pride. He explained that the track draws inspiration from the traditional practice of uLobola and the meaningful gesture of introducing one's partner to the family. ' Intombi Yam is about appreciating and loving your partner, and embracing the culture of uLobola . It's a celebration of women and the respect they deserve,' he said. He also noted that Intombi Yam marks a fresh musical direction for him. Unlike his earlier work, which leaned more towards fast-paced or mainstream Amapiano, this track blends groovy basslines with melodic and soulful rhythms, a sound he's proud to call his own. 'It's groovy, melodic, and soulful, something I haven't done before or heard from others. I always aim to create a unique identity in my sound,' he added. The single has already garnered positive reactions from fans and fellow artists alike. With radio airplay and growing interest in collaborations, Family First says the momentum around Intombi Yam signals an exciting chapter in his musical journey. The producer also reflected on how collaborations with artists like Mawhoo, Zeh McGeba, and Mthokozisi Ndaba have influenced his artistic evolution. He credited each artist for bringing unique qualities that pushed him to grow and refine his craft. 'Working with Mawhoo opened me up emotionally; her powerful, soulful vocals made me realise how important it is to connect deeply with the listener,' he said. 'Zeh McGeba brought a raw, streetwise edge that sharpened my rhythm and lyrical instincts, reminding me to stay rooted in the culture. 'Mthokozisi Ndaba challenged me to focus on storytelling; he helped me see music not just as sound, but as a meaningful narrative.' He added that these collaborations have helped him become more intentional and versatile in his work. "I'm truly grateful for what each of them brought to the table. They've all poured something real into the music, and that's helped shape who I am as an artist today." Family First recalled a standout moment in the studio when he and his team experimented by combining Maskandi and Amapiano sounds. The creative session led to the playful invention of a new genre they called 'Maskandiano.' The track became one of his most unique works, marking a bold step outside his usual style and highlighting his passion for musical innovation. The Amapiano producer is gearing up to release a new EP later this year, expected around September or October. The project features a mix of soulful and groovy Amapiano tracks, with standout songs like Ndiyoyika , featuring Miss Twiggy, and Inombolo , a collaboration with Zino 33, Zema Geber, and Senzo. He shared that his music is deeply rooted in themes of love, family, friendship, and respect. Each track is crafted to take listeners on a journey that celebrates emotional connections and meaningful values, a reflection of the kind of impact he hopes to leave through his artistry. The Star [email protected]
IOL News
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Family First makes a soulful return to the Amapiano scene with 'Intombi Yam'
Family First's new single "Intombi Yam" revitalises the Amapiano genre, showcasing emotional depth and cultural pride, while marking a new creative path for the artist. Family First makes a powerful return to the Amapiano scene with the release of 'Intombi Yam,' a soulful single crafted alongside Zeenhle and Sykes that's already capturing hearts and setting the dance floors ablaze. Hailing from the vibrant city of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, Amapiano producer and entrepreneur Nzuzo Ndlovu, popularly known as Family First, continues to rise in South Africa's music scene. Reflecting on his journey into the Amapiano genre, Family First describes it as one filled with valuable lessons. 'The road hasn't always been smooth, but every bump has taught me something and helped me grow,' he shared. It's this growth, paired with his passion for slow-paced, soulful sounds, that fuels his creativity as a producer. The artist says his deep love for music is what led him to create soundscapes that resonate emotionally with his audience, a signature style now synonymous with his brand. 'I enjoy creating emotional music, something people can learn from or be positively impacted by. While I've done fast-paced tracks before, my heart lies in slow, soulful sounds. I believe love songs and emotional music have greater longevity and a deeper impact on people's lives,' said Family First. The artist shared that his latest single Intombi Yam is a heartfelt tribute to love and cultural pride. He explained that the track draws inspiration from the traditional practice of uLobola and the meaningful gesture of introducing one's partner to the family. 'Intombi Yam is about appreciating and loving your partner, and embracing the culture of uLobola. It's a celebration of women and the respect they deserve,' he said. He also noted that Intombi Yam marks a fresh musical direction for him. Unlike his earlier work, which leaned more towards fast-paced or mainstream Amapiano, this track blends groovy basslines with melodic and soulful rhythms, a sound he's proud to call his own. 'It's groovy, melodic, and soulful, something I haven't done before or heard from others. I always aim to create a unique identity in my sound,' he added. The single has already garnered positive reactions from fans and fellow artists alike. With radio airplay and growing interest in collaborations, Family First says the momentum around Intombi Yam signals an exciting chapter in his musical journey. The producer also reflected on how collaborations with artists like Mawhoo, Zeh McGeba, and Mthokozisi Ndaba have influenced his artistic evolution. He credited each artist for bringing unique qualities that pushed him to grow and refine his craft. 'Working with Mawhoo opened me up emotionally; her powerful, soulful vocals made me realise how important it is to connect deeply with the listener,' he said. 'Zeh McGeba brought a raw, streetwise edge that sharpened my rhythm and lyrical instincts, reminding me to stay rooted in the culture. 'Mthokozisi Ndaba challenged me to focus on storytelling; he helped me see music not just as sound, but as a meaningful narrative.' He added that these collaborations have helped him become more intentional and versatile in his work. "I'm truly grateful for what each of them brought to the table. They've all poured something real into the music, and that's helped shape who I am as an artist today." Family First recalled a standout moment in the studio when he and his team experimented by combining Maskandi and Amapiano sounds. The creative session led to the playful invention of a new genre they called 'Maskandiano.' The track became one of his most unique works, marking a bold step outside his usual style and highlighting his passion for musical innovation. The Amapiano producer is gearing up to release a new EP later this year, expected around September or October. The project features a mix of soulful and groovy Amapiano tracks, with standout songs like Ndiyoyika, featuring Miss Twiggy, and Inombolo, a collaboration with Zino 33, Zema Geber, and Senzo. He shared that his music is deeply rooted in themes of love, family, friendship, and respect. Each track is crafted to take listeners on a journey that celebrates emotional connections and meaningful values, a reflection of the kind of impact he hopes to leave through his artistry. The Star
The Citizen
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Mawhoo on thriving in Amapiano's male-dominated scene
Mawhoo was recently named Spotify's EQUAL Africa Ambassador for July 2025. South African vocalist Mawhoo is making waves in the Amapiano genre with her unique sound and rising success in a male-dominated industry. Mawhoo, whose real name is Thandeka Ngema, was recently named Spotify's EQUAL Africa Ambassador for July 2025, a recognition of her growing influence and artistic impact. The EQUAL Africa programme is part of Spotify's global initiative to spotlight and support women creators by equipping them with the tools and platforms they need to thrive in the music industry. Mawhoo's journey in music began in 2018 with the release of her debut single Umshado, which she credits as the beginning of her professional breakthrough. 'The positive feedback from people and the reception to the track made me realise that I can do this thing. But I've always been passionate about music from a young age,' she said. Her path to success, however, has not been without its challenges. As a woman in the industry, Mawhoo said she faced not only creative limitations but also pressure to conform. 'There was a time when people used to make me do music and a sound that didn't resonate with me; I couldn't be creative fully and be expressive, so people used to assume I couldn't sing or that I wasn't talented. 'I was often bullied, and that made me stressed, but instead of leaving music, I carried on and didn't give up. I used that to push myself.' Now regarded as one of the leading voices in Amapiano, she believes her success comes from staying true to herself. 'I've empowered myself, and I make decisions that feel right to me. I don't do things just to please others. I don't do anything that's going to make me feel uncomfortable. If a space doesn't serve me, I walk away.' NOW READ: 'It's not just music, it's a story': Showmax celebrates Kabza De Small's Amapiano brilliance Mawhoo on breaking barriers and setting boundaries Speaking on the broader challenges women face in the music space, Mawhoo said the industry often blurs professional and personal boundaries. 'As a woman, even beyond the music industry, there are challenges that we face. We are subjected to being wanted and approached by men promising us love or looking for intimacy, even in professional settings. 'As women, learn to stand your ground and say no. Teach people to respect you and your decisions. Don't do things because you want to please others and want to be favoured — don't sell your soul.' NOW READ: 'We're all puppets': Q&A with Chester Missing
The South African
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
Are Zimbabwean fans choosing Mawhoo over Naledi Aphiwe?
When South African singer Mawhoo stepped on stage in Zimbabwe this past weekend, she didn't just perform; she connected. Mawhoo performed in Harare at Karma on 31 May. After a lively set filled with sing-alongs and love from the crowd, the artist took to Facebook to share her feelings: 'I want Zim to adopt me… what a sing along…' And just like that, Zimbabweans were sold. The comments came flooding in, fans praising her music, her energy, and most of all, her humility. But Mawhoo's Zimbabwean love story comes just a week after another South African star, Naledi Aphiwe, left a sour taste in the mouths of many fans in Zimbabwe. Last week, when a Zimbabwean admirer politely asked if Naledi Aphiwe could visit the country, Naledi shot back with a cheeky. A TikTok user, Constance Muzenda, commented on one of Naledi's posts, saying: 'Naledi, please come to Zimbabwe.' In response, Naledi replied: ' Hambani niyongilinda khona ,' which translates to 'Go and wait for me there.' The response, meant to be playful, didn't land well. Zimbabwean social media users were quick to label her response as dismissive, even disrespectful. And now, they're drawing a clear line between the two artists and picking sides. Here is how Zimbabweans reacted: @Akeem Dembo: 'South Africans will grow jealous after seeing this.' @Sean Craig: ' Mawhoo, please don't come with Naledi…' @InterpreterIIMlambo: ' Better than Aphiwe Naledi..' @Daisline Tashly: 'Oky, but please, Naledi must stay there, we don't want her in Zimbabwe. ' Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
TimesLIVE
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
DJ Tira sets the tone for this year's Durban July with Mzansi's sought-after A-listers
The countdown to the Hollywoodbets Durban July has begun and DJ Tira's Afrotainment team is gearing up for another spectacular year at the Afrotainment Marquee. On July 5, the team will bring their unique blend of style and entertainment to the event, themed 'Marvels of Mzansi'. Recently, the Palesa hit maker and the Afrotainment crew gathered at Avianto Hotel in Muldersdrift for a stunning photo shoot to kick-start their journey to the much-anticipated opulent event. DJ Tira's wife Gugu Khathi, singers Zee Nxumalo, Mawhoo, DJ Maphorisa, Ashley Ogle and Sweet Guluva, donned bright-coloured garments, setting the tone for an unforgettable event. For Gugu, the Durban July has become a cherished tradition. 'It went from an idea. From the smallest photo shoot to what we do now. It's been years, and each year, this day is the most important,' she said, highlighting the significance of the event. This year marks 14 years of DJ Tira having his Afro marquee at the Durban July and he's built a reputation for doing it bigger and better. He says this year he is taking things up a notch. 'The love and passion for what I do [is what keeps me going]. I love entertainment, I love looking good. I love being a leader. I love showing the way. And now I am showing the way for Durban July, how to dress and how to look,' Tira said. 'We always work with who's hot. When it comes to the Afrotainment shoot, we always work with whose currently trending.' Mawhoo, who will be attending the event for the first time because she usually attends the after-parties, plans to dazzle with elegance. She advises first-time attendees to put their best foot forward too. 'Look good, look nice. It's not a competition, just wear something that's going to make you feel confident and that you'll be proud of.' Ashley Ogle, also a first-timer, is excited about her appearance. 'I think of it (the event) as glam and Zodwa Wabantu. Now it's going to be Ashley Wabantu. I'm looking forward to seeing all the looks.'
