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After 20 years in the industry, the South African rapper and Amapiano artist proves his bold transition was the right move. Sizwe Alakine, formerly known as Reason, has achieved a monumental milestone in his illustrious music career.
The veteran South African rapper and Amapiano artist has taken home his first-ever South African Music Award (SAMA) for his collaboration on the track “Imithandazo” with Mthunzi and Kabza De Small.
This victory comes after two decades of dedication to the industry, and it’s a testament to his courage, versatility, and unwavering commitment to his art.
Sizwe Alakine’s journey to this SAMA win has not been without its challenges. When he made the bold decision to transition from hip-hop to Amapiano, he faced criticism from some quarters. Many felt he was abandoning hip-hop, a genre he had helped shape in South Africa, for the more commercially viable Amapiano. The criticism was fueled by the perception that he was “jumping ship” when hip-hop was struggling to gain traction in the country.
However, Sizwe Alakine remained resolute, staying true to his artistic vision and conviction. He recognized the evolving musical landscape in South Africa and adapted, leveraging his talent and creativity to thrive in Amapiano. This bold move has paid off, as “Imithandazo” has become a massive hit, showcasing his ability to blend his lyrical prowess with Amapiano’s infectious beats.
The collaboration with Kabza De Small, the “King of Amapiano,” and vocalist Mthunzi proved to be a winning formula. The track’s success demonstrates Sizwe Alakine’s talent, versatility, and willingness to push boundaries. His ability to excel in both hip-hop and Amapiano is a rare gift, and this SAMA win solidifies his position as one of South Africa’s most accomplished artists.
Sizwe Alakine took to Twitter to share the exciting news, reflecting on his journey. “My first-ever SAMA award after 20 years in the game. Crazy! Let me be the living testimony of what happens when you don’t let them talk down on you.” He added a motivational message, urging fans to “stay low, keep firing, and it won’t be too long if you endure.”
This SAMA win is not just a victory for Sizwe Alakine; it’s also a validation of his courage to take risks and challenge the status quo. His success serves as inspiration to fellow artists, demonstrating that staying true to oneself and adapting to change can lead to remarkable achievements.
As Sizwe Alakine continues to break barriers and push the boundaries of South African music, his legacy as a trailblazer and talented artist is cemented. This SAMA win is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his illustrious career.
Written by: Hope Thobs
Amapiano Hip-hop Imithandazo Kabza De Small Mthunzi Nominee SAMAS Sizwe Alkine South Africa Winner
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