I came across another amazing artist in the South African hip-hop community that I think deserves some attention. Yesterday, we focused on the young Childish K from North-West, which was well received on Twitter. Today, I want to shine the spotlight on Giyani (not the place).
Giyani is an artist from Pietermaritzburg, KZN. He grew up primarily in Pretoria and Johannesburg, where his father, a radio DJ, exposed him to music. His father used to have artists like Zakes Bantwini and Mondli Ngcobo record music in their house, which had a significant influence on Giyani when he was younger.
Giyani’s music career began in Gauteng when he released his first song in 2013 with MDB, who is now known as Maglera Doe Boy. In 2017, he released his first EP, “Mosh,” which blended South African dance music with hip hop, a style he and his collaborator Subs coined as “Mosh.”
In 2020, he released his second project, “Patterns,” featuring Maglera Doe Boy, Gotti Gambino, and other artists like Morris Fuego, who played an integral part in the project. “Patterns” gained attention from YFM and was highlighted on Lula Odiba’s show.
Giyani’s Latest project, “Azania Love Stories,” took two years to develop. The project reflects typical township love stories and incorporates Kwaito and amapiano-influenced production, using R&B vocals and melody-driven raps throughout the album. Giyani describes his sound as Kwaito-Soul, reflecting his deep connection to R&B. The project includes two features—Phangas and Morris Fuego—and production from Staxx Luciano, YoKwame, DJ Unik, and the main producers Morris Fuego and Lyndon Johnson, with live guitar by Sande Clarity.