KING OF AFRO-DANCE COMES WITH HEAT

BY MBALI TEBELE

The bright story between afro-dance and amapiano has begun.

South African BAYEKELE hit-maker, Dj Melzi collaborated with the British KING OF AFRO-DANCE, A-Star on a unique dance anthem titled ‘PIKA PIKA’ which is co-written by Enaiyo a producer and songwriter.

‘PIKA PIKA’ is one of the first musical releases that consist of Amapiano synths and wide percussive basslines while having a catchy and vibey beat that encourages dancing. This release disrupted the norm, to show creatives that they have control and power over their art.

The single was released last year closing off the year in November.

Speaking to Daily News Entertainment, A-Star shared that Afro-dance is a sound of movement that can gel well with any genre and he thought why not amapiano, that is how DJ Melzi came to the equation and cooked a banger hit together alongside Enaiyo.

“Afro-dance is a sound and a movement that can blend with any genre. It was a no-brainer to make an amapiano-influenced record as they both have one main thing in common - African dance culture.

“I met DJ Melzi in London and invited him to the studio. We worked on quite a few records and Pika Pika was one of these,” he said.

A-star also said this single introduces a new sound and that fans should be on the lookout for more collaborations.

A-star has also worked with South Africa’s biggest musician, Sho Madjozi.

Enaiyo also shared with us that he believes music is a language that brings genres together and cultures.

“I believe music is a language and to bring both genres together is to bring cultures together, and as African people, we should always celebrate this language that we have been blessed with.

“My life is music; I dream melodies and see sounds in my sleep. I can’t escape it and I love it. So, everything I do is to better myself as a musician… an instrument of God,” he added.

Staying true to themselves, growth, and the process of creating; the hit-makers went on to reassure their fans that there will be more music created and put out for them to vibe and dance to, “The plan has always been to create – be it music, art or dance.”

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