Atlanta-based rapper, Clifford Joseph Harris Jr., known as T.I., has recently embarked on the amapiano trend, delighting South African fans who grew up singing along to his hits, including “Live Your Life” with Rihanna and “Whatever You Like.” This genre fusion has stirred excitement, with T.I. teaming up with Kamo Mphela to release a new single that embraces the signature Mzansi sound.
Amapiano, undoubtedly one of South Africa’s most successful musical exports in the past two decades, has garnered a global following, drawing fans from across the world and capturing the attention of some of the music industry’s biggest stars. T.I. is the latest artist to join this wave, announcing his collaboration with Kamo Mphela and the upcoming release of their track, “Vacay.”
On his Instagram, T.I. unveiled the forthcoming single, scheduled to drop on November 3, 2023, with the caption, “We goin’ UP in 4 days!” The song is set to feature an infectious amapiano beat, produced by Champuro Makhenzo, a well-known figure for his work with the late Costa Titch and a frequent collaborator with Mphela.
This intersection of American and South African sounds exemplifies the growing admiration of South African culture by Americans. T.I. is the latest American celebrity to pay homage to our music and the overall industry with his collaboration with Kamo Mphela. Notably, he has teased an upcoming collaboration with South African DJ Uncle Waffles, adding to the list of American artists engaging with South African music. In addition, parallel, the international media has been heaping praise on singer Tyla for her chart-topping single. “Water,” solidifying South Africa’s influence on the global stage. In light of these developments. It seems like the perfect time to embrace the allure of Hollywood and ride the wave of international recognition.
