In 2020, Azana’s soulful voice became a familiar sound in the Afro-pop and soul music scene with her feature on Sun-El Musician’s soul-awakening hit, “Uhuru.” Just four years into her singing career, the 24-year-old songstress is now setting her sights on the world of acting.
“I’d like to play a role not too far from who I am. A character perceived as shy but slowly breaks and grows into herself. A character that isn’t afraid to do risky things and push remarkable boundaries,” Azana revealed in an exclusive interview with Sowetan S Magazine.
“Everyone knows that I can sing. So, my next move is to challenge myself and see if I can truly embody a character that evokes emotion through the screens. Just like the way the late Henry Cele did with his most memorable role ever, Shaka Zulu. He had so much presence with that character to the point where we all associate him with the iconic Zulu warrior. To this day, I personally haven’t seen someone who embodies a role the way he did. And that’s what I want to do when I finally get my very first role.”
Though she doesn’t watch much television, Azana has her favourites. “Before it was cancelled, Isibaya used to be my go-to show. The storylines were well-written and impressively carried out by the actors… it truly goes down as one of the best drama series to ever come out of Mzansi,” she said.
On the music front, Azana is not slowing down. She recently released a joint six-track EP, “Kwa Khanya,” alongside music maestro Sam Deep, with “BoGogo” as the lead single.
“From the beginning of my career, I made it clear that I’m not an artist who sticks to just one genre. I am a multilayered artist who still plans to explore more. I want to try out Afro-tech and Maskandi. In the same breath, I won’t run away from doing Afro-pop and spiritual amapiano, which I am known for,” said the sultry singer. “Everything will have its time and I am fully aware of when the time has come for me to tap into something… be it acting or trying out a different genre or niche.”
Besides her keen interest in acting, Azana aims to grow her presence as a sought-after vocalist for international DJs who are dominating the global music charts.
“So far, my career is growing so beautifully. I’ve worked with big names in the industry but I’d really love to work with Black Coffee and Calvin Harris. These two international DJs produce music that is calming and soothing, which suits my voice range.”
