Mi Casa’s J’Something has curated his own playlist as part of the Amaqhawe campaign. Picture: Instagram
Apple Music is paying tribute to some of South Africa’s top musical legends across multiple genres this Heritage Month.
The streaming giant has recently launched their Amaqhawe (which translates to heroes) campaign in a bid to celebrate the legacies of the local artists who have used their voices to make a positive change as it commemorates the rich diversity of South African music over the decades.
It will feature exclusive guest-curated playlists from the likes of Ringo Madlingozi, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, TKZee, Dr Rebecca Malope, DJ Ready D, Oskido, Judith Sephuma, Thandiswa Mazwai, Mafikizolo, Khuli Chana, Laurika Rauch and The Soil.
Meanwhile, Apple Music’s editorial team have also put together the Amaqhawe playlist which features artists who have died, such as Brenda Fassie, Johnny Clegg and Mandoza.
It will also include music by Letta Mbulu, Miriam Makeba and Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
In addition, they have also commissioned a series of exclusive Home Sessions from top musicians such as Mango Groove, Simphiwe Dana, Mi Casa and the Springbok Nude Girls.
These will feature the artists reimagining their signature songs as well as recording a cover version reinterpreting their favourite South African song of all time.
Speaking at the announcement this week, “The Citizen” quoted Madlingozi as saying that he hopes that listeners will enjoy his selected playlist.
“These are some of the songs that speak to the rhythm of my heart and my wish is that while listening to these eclectic sounds, you feel the power of the music and how it unifies us.”
The publication added that Sephuma described her selection as reflecting the powerful female voices that have inspired her.
“The greatest thing in my career is that our country really loves and supports us. My career has been such a blessing since ‘A Cry, A Smile, and A Dance’ was released, and I was lucky.”
J’Something added that heritage is rooted in stories and beliefs passed down through generations.
He said that his playlist features some of his favourite current creatives and acknowledged the role that music has in shaping culture.