Powered by ARMC | Alfa Kat | Interview by Reggie Rasodi
Alfa Kat, the acclaimed musician and recording artist hailing from Mafikeng, has etched his name in the music scene with the viral sensation like “Phone Yam,” a record that has become synonymous with dance culture. Born with a passion for music, Alfa Kat not only captures the essence of his South African roots but also emerges as a modern ambassador of motswako. This distinctive hip-hop sub-genre, characterized by its innovative blend of various musical styles, mirrors the pioneering spirit of artists like HHP, Morafe, and Cassper Ngovest. Alfa Kat’s artistic journey reflects a commitment to pushing boundaries within the dynamic landscape of motswako, solidifying his place as a trailblazer in the industry.
Hey Alfa, so happy to be doing this interview with you. It has been such an amazing journey to see your growth in the music industry. When you recorded the viral “Phone Yam” music video which premiered on then 22nd of November 2020, I remember was on your set as I made a cameo in the video and what stood out for me was your amazing creative direction and the passion you have for the craft you bring in our entertainment industry. However, today we are here to talk about your latest single:
Alfa Kat – “Wayaka” ft. Jelly Babie, Mustbedubz & Teddy trill.
What inspired the creation of this single?
The song is inspired by elements of Pretoria’s barcardi and quantum sound, slowed down to the tempo and hard knocking log drum base of amapiano.
How does this single differ from your previous work?
This single is a blend of sounds which makes it better discribed as Mostwako music, a style of creating music in mafikeng, where sounds are mixed together to always come out with something new and fresh.
Can you share the story or concept behind the lyrics of the song?
The lyrics are basically about how everything I say or do they (the people) can not believe is true or possible. The “Oh Yes” part of the lyrics in the song comes from the verse I used in Big Flexa and it features the incredible Jelly Babie, who is a Barcode artist put on by the late Vusi Ma R5.
- Big Flex is a hit track by the late Costa Titch, in which Alfa Kat features on. The music video is currently on 89 MILLION VIEWS on YouTube.
How do you hope listeners will connect with or interpret the message of the song?
My goal is to consistently provide a thrilling and electrifying experience for first-time listeners by creating a mesmerizing impact every time the bass drops, aiming to leave an indelible impression that resonates with the essence of the music and captivates their auditory senses with an unforgettable blend of excitement and surprise.
Were there any specific challenges or breakthrough moments during the production process?
Yes, challenge is not fitting in with other amapiano songs which makes it a bit harder to get played by club djs, the breakthrough moment will be once we get a dance trending on TikTok and the song being demanded everywhere.
Do you perhaps want to talk about the collaboration involved in creating this single?
On the beat production, there’s Mustbedubz whom I have been working with for years, there’s also Teddy Trill on beat production while on vocals there’s Jelly Babie and myself.
Are there any particular emotions or experiences you aimed to evoke with this release?
Certainly, with this release, my intention is to elicit a range of emotions and experiences from the audience. I aspire to evoke a sense of joy and rhythmic energy that transcends into spontaneous dancing, fostering a connection between the music and the listeners on a visceral level. Moreover, beyond the local scene, I am anticipating a widespread international reception, envisioning the music resonating with diverse audiences across borders, transcending cultural boundaries, and becoming a unifying force in the global music landscape. It’s a multifaceted endeavor, seeking both a lively dancefloor response and a broad, positive impact on an international scale.
Did you experiment with any new techniques or musical elements in this single?
Absolutely, in the creation of this single, I delved into innovative musical techniques and elements to craft a distinctive sonic experience. The exploration included the incorporation of heavy bass elements, meticulously designed to provide a powerful and resonant foundation that envelops the listener in a deep, immersive soundscape. Complementing this, I experimented with knocking drums, meticulously tuned to punctuate the rhythm and elevate the overall intensity of the composition. To further enhance the song’s appeal, I crafted a fire, easy-to-catch hook that serves as a memorable focal point, ensuring that the audience is not only captivated by the instrumental intricacies but also drawn in by a compelling and infectious melodic motif. This amalgamation of experimental techniques aims to push the boundaries of the sonic landscape, offering a fresh and dynamic listening experience for fans and newcomers alike.
You already know that visuals are my favourite thing to look at when I have heard a track I enjoy and I cannot wait to see what you have in store for us. What role does visual art play in complementing the message of the single, if applicable?
Visuals are very important because we can use them to show viewers how to dance to the song and enjoy it.
Before I release you, please answer one more question. How has your personal growth or experiences influenced the creation of this particular piece?
Throughout my journey in the music industry, my personal growth and accumulated experiences have undeniably played a pivotal role in shaping the creation of this particular piece. Over the years, I’ve witnessed a significant evolution in my craft, marked by a continuous commitment to elevating the quality of my work. The culmination of experiences has fueled a desire to transcend the ordinary, steering clear of mediocrity. This drive is deeply rooted in a refusal to settle for anything less than excellence, pushing me to constantly explore new sonic territories and break barriers within the musical landscape.
As I’ve matured as an artist, my aspiration extends beyond merely creating music; it’s about forging connections and bridging worlds through my artistic expression. This single, in particular, serves as a testament to this ethos, as I strive to weave a tapestry of sounds that not only reflects my personal growth but also resonates with a diverse audience. It’s a conscious effort to craft music that transcends boundaries, forging a universal connection that goes beyond the confines of genres or geographical borders. This commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and fostering a global musical dialogue is a testament to the transformative power of personal growth within the creative process. Yeah, Reg, that’s how I feel, thank you for your wonderful questions.