A Rising Voice in South Africa’s Music Scene
Mthatha-born singer-songwriter Makhanj is steadily carving her place in the South African music industry with a sound that fuses R&B, Amapiano, Afrotech, and gospel influences. Known for her emotive vocals and versatile style, she represents the new wave of multi-genre artists who refuse to be boxed in.
Inspired by Giants, Grounded in Faith
Speaking to TheJournalistDJ.com at a recent Scorpion Kings showcase, Makhanj reflected on how the duo’s global success motivates her:
“I truly believe that if someone else can do it, it means I can do it. When I see things like this, it feels like the Scorpion Kings are telling us we can dream just as big.”
Her journey, she adds, is deeply rooted in faith and the belief that “there’s nothing God can’t do.”
Early Journey and Key Mentors
Makhanj’s first entry into Amapiano came through DBN Gogo, with whom she recorded her debut piano track. That connection opened doors to influential names such as Musa Keys, Babalwa M, and Kelvin Momo, accelerating her rise in the genre.
She also credits her family for shaping her musical DNA, particularly her brother, legendary Afrotech DJ Kabila, whose influence exposed her to diverse sounds beyond piano.
Beyond Amapiano: Embracing Afrotech and 3-Step
While many fans know her through Amapiano collaborations, Makhanj is equally drawn to Afrotech and the emerging 3-Step sound:
“You can’t limit us. At the end of the day, we are creators. I love gospel, R&B, Afrotech, Piano—everything. If God gave me the gift, I have to explore it fully.”
New Music on the Horizon
With summer around the corner, Makhanj revealed that she is currently working on a new single with Stix and Deepa Fill, describing it as one of her most unique projects yet. She also hinted at the possibility of a full album, following her last EP Ngiyak’yambo (Flower).
The Story Behind the Name
Born Mbali Makanya, the artist shared the origins of her stage name:
“I used to rap in high school, and my friends combined Minaj from Nicki Minaj with my surname, Makanya. That’s how Makanji was born.”
Her hip hop beginnings, she believes, gave her the lyrical discipline and intentionality that now fuel her songwriting across genres.
Bars, Beats, and Boundless Dreams
Before wrapping up the interview, Makhanj even dropped a quick freestyle—proving that her rap roots remain alive beneath her soulful piano and Afrotech vocals.
As she continues to build her name, one thing is clear: Makhanj is a star in bloom, unafraid to embrace every layer of her artistry.
