Up And Personal With ‘Paris’ Hitmaker Afriikan Papi

“It was my grandmother who instilled in us a profound love for music, sowing the seeds of passion that continue to flourish,” says the star, whose real name is Sipho Eugene Lekganyane.

By Lesego Kgatle

Singer, songwriter and two-time SAMA Nominee, Afriikan Papi well known for his collaboration on Amapiano Song, Paris by Q-Mark and Tpzee sits down with Sibizi Magazine and tells us all from his upbringing, and his upcoming project.

What role did music play in your early years?

Music has been the cornerstone of my life, providing not just a source of inspiration but also a powerful deterrent against the allure of the streets. It has instilled in me a sense of discipline and purpose, steering me clear of the temptations of drugs and crime. While no one in my family pursued music as a professional career, it has always been an integral part of our household. Our beloved grandmother was the maestro of this familial orchestra, using music as a tool to weave the threads of our family closer together. Through her teachings, music became our tradition, our shared language, and our collective passion. It is with pride that I say I hail from a family where harmony extends beyond the notes and into the heart of our kinship.

How would you describe your music? What genre or style resonates with you the most?

At the heart of my musical identity lies a simple truth: I am a vocalist first, an artist whose soul speaks through melodies. My connection with music transcends genres, for it is the beauty of the melody that resonates with me, that stirs the depths of my creativity. I stand firm in my belief that the essence of music cannot be confined within rigid boundaries. To be ‘boxed in’ is to limit the infinite possibilities that music holds. As a vocalist, my voice is an instrument of expression, versatile and adaptive, embracing the diverse tapestry of sounds that the world offers. In this ever-evolving musical landscape, I am not defined by a single genre but by the fluidity of my art. My journey is one of exploration, of finding harmony in the unexpected, and of sharing the universal language of melody with all who listen.

Could you walk us through your creative process when writing new music?

For me, the genesis of creation begins with the beat—a pulsating guide that shapes the emotional landscape of my music. It is within the beat that I find the cues to the emotions I wish to evoke, the narrative I aim to weave through my words. As the rhythm unfolds, it becomes a compass for my creativity, pointing me towards the sentiments that resonate most deeply. The beat is not just a backdrop; it is the catalyst that unlocks the flow of my lyrics, allowing me to tap into the wellspring of inspiration with ease and authenticity. In this symphony of sounds, I am both the conductor and the composer, following the beat’s lead to craft a piece that speaks to the soul. It is a dance between the tangible and the intangible, where the beat informs the pen, and together, they bring forth the music that is uniquely mine.

If you could convey one message to your listeners through your music, what would it be?

It would be in a world where actions speak louder than words, my guiding principle is simple yet profound: “Lead with Love.” This mantra is not just a statement; it is the ethos that underpins every aspect of my life and work. It is a commitment to approach each day, each interaction, and each decision with compassion, kindness, and empathy.

Who is someone you’d love to collaborate with?

A joint project with Sjava would be more than just a melding of sounds; it would be an honor, a milestone in my career that I believe would profoundly impact my musicality. As a long-time admirer of his work, the opportunity to create alongside him would be a testament to the power of music to connect, transform, and elevate. His music has not only been a source of inspiration but also a beacon guiding my own musical journey.

Lead with Love. This mantra is not just a statement; it is the ethos that underpins every aspect of my life and work.

Afriikan Papi

Could you share more about your unique sound and captivating performances that have made you a sensation in the Amapiano genre? What sets you apart from other artists?

What sets me apart from other artists is the tapestry of the arts, Afriikan Papi emerges as a standout figure, renowned for an unparalleled vivacity that captivates audiences. It’s the raw, palpable energy on stage that sets a new bar for live performances. This signature zest not only defines my artistry but also creates an immersive experience that transcends the conventional, leaving spectators with an indelible mark of exhilaration.

Who is Afriikan Papi outside of your music career?

I am Sipho Eugene Lekganyane, the youngest son of Margaret Mathiba Shabalala and the brother to four siblings on my mother’s side: three sisters, Refiloe, Palisa, Sindisiwe, and one brother, Bheki, affectionately known as “Just Bheki.” Our upbringing was nurtured under the guidance of our grandmother, alongside other relatives. I am also a father to a ten-month-old son named Owethu, who, along with his mother, has been a pillar of strength, joy, and illumination in my life. My relationship with my father has been distant; we first met in 2007, but as time passed, we drifted apart once more. Consequently, my knowledge of my father’s family is limited, save for a brother who tragically perished in a car accident and who had been more of a paternal figure to me than my biological father. Regarding my personal interests, I am an avid culinary enthusiast with a voracious appetite for food. My presence is guaranteed wherever there is cuisine. Additionally, I have a deep appreciation for cinema, frequently indulging in movies or series as a means of relaxation. Recently, I have developed an interest in basketball, and despite my lack of proficiency, I find enjoyment in the sport. To ensure I maintain optimal energy levels from the start to the finish of my performances, I have incorporated jogging into my routine.

Your new solo project is coming, is there something you would like to hint to the readers on what it is going to be about?

I am pleased to announce the forthcoming release of my debut EP, a collection of songs crafted with the intent of enduring beyond fleeting trends. My aspiration is to compose music that remains relevant and resonant, even a decade hence. The creative process has been guided by genuine emotion rather than the prevailing currents of the music industry. To my esteemed listeners who have navigated life’s tribulations or who cherish the essence of love, I extend an invitation to embark on a musical odyssey with me.