WeeklySA_AdminNew kid on the block:Like a ray of sunshine on a freezing winter morning
By Gugu Sibiya
Refreshingly devoid of airs often associated with new found fame, Azana is welcoming and simply happy to chat about her changing fortunes. Especially when it pertains to her newly dropped debut offering Ingoma and the four SAMA nominations. “I’ve been nominated for Best Newcomer, Best AfroPop, Best Music Video and Record of the year.
“I’m so thrilled at such a welcome to the teak tough industry and to be shown such an overwhelming vote of confidence. Being mentioned in the same breath as heavy weights, is inspirational. It gives me hope that somebody has noticed the blood, sweat and tears I’ve put into my album. I still can’t believe its brought me this far!”
Her infectious, melodic, single Your Love is not only soaring through the charts, but has become a popular go to song at get together. It’s also the most nominated. “I know people like it but I never expected it to blow this big. It’s a blessing I’m grateful for” she says sincerely.
Bortshangasen Makhosazane in Chesterville, one of the townships outside Durban, the laidback singer concedes that she knew she was onto a good thing with her debut offering.
Tracks like Uthando lwangempela, Lovers and Best Friends as well as ithemba, are doing extremely well.
“As much as I wrote the lyrics that made sense, its these talented producers who’ve weaved their magic around the project. The industry must look out for them” she says, proudly showering her team with praises for a job well done.
Already imbued with the hallmarks of a star, the amiable Azana has been likened to Moseki. “It’s definitely a compliment. After all I’m a great admirer of her work and would love to collaborate with her some day. Moseki is more of a seasoned artist and that comes out eloquently in her voice. I’ve just started out.
Elaborating, “Besides, her maturity makes our experiences different which is reflected in the way we articulate them in our music. Fans insist that our voices are similar and thought we’d done a duet when we haven’t. I appreciate the confidence it gives me and my fans. If I’m linked to such a star, then my fans know they’re in good company”
A law student, Azana says she’s taken her elders’ advice that pursuit of a good education always stands one in good stead. “I’ve heard of horror stories in industries across the spectrum. Making informed decisions comes from education and later, acquired experience. I’m here and wish to learn as much as I can about the entertainment scene. In as much as I have, about the power of digital technology. My album dropped during lockdown but because of social media it has enjoyed a lot of support. A new avenue has opened. Imagine merging traditional and technological marketing tools how much success it can yield” she exclaims in wonder.
“Now that I’ve realised a long cherished dream of becoming a recording singer, I will tick off other desires on my wish list. I see myself also pursuing my theatrical and modelling aspirations. The time is right and God willing my degree will be done and dusted” says the tall, ocean kissed girl from the banana city, imploring the universe to make it happen for her.
