South African Amapiano artist Tman Xpress has opened up about his evolving creative journey, community initiatives, and the spiritual direction shaping his music in 2026. Speaking on TheGeneralistDJ.com, the Diepkloof-born vocalist reflected on growth, purpose and the importance of staying connected to both culture and community.
From Studio Sessions to Indoor Soccer Courts
While the interview kicked off on a lighthearted note, sparked by a soccer-related injury, Tman Xpress used the moment to highlight a growing weekly soccer initiative bringing together artists from across genres, particularly Amapiano and hip hop.
The sessions, held every Wednesday, are more than friendly matches. According to Tman, they are a deliberate effort to promote fitness, brotherhood and balance in an industry known for late nights and demanding schedules.
“We’re trying to create a relationship between music and sports,”
he explained.
“Most of us grew up playing soccer before music found us.”
Building Community Beyond the Music Industry
The initiative goes beyond wellness. Tman Xpress revealed plans to formalise the movement, with hopes of gaining support from government departments linked to sports, arts and culture.
He believes the crossover between soccer and music can serve as a powerful reminder to young people that career paths are not linear, and that creative success often comes after setbacks in other dreams.
“Amapiano gave us direction again,” he said. “But many of us wanted to be soccer players first. It’s important to show kids that there are options.”
Amapiano vs Hip Hop: Culture on the Pitch
The artist also confirmed his participation in an upcoming genre-based soccer tournament, featuring Amapiano, Hip Hop and Maskandi teams. Tman Xpress will captain Team Jamboree, one of two Amapiano squads competing in the event.
Beyond competition, the match is positioned as a celebration of unity, culture and friendly rivalry, reflecting the same spirit that fuels South Africa’s music scene.
Supporting Thuli P’s ‘AVANA’ EP Launch
The interview took place at the launch of Thuli P’s new EP, AVANA, where Tman Xpress is both a supporter and a contributor. He features on the track “Kubek’ukuya Ngam,” a song rooted in reflection, prayer and social consciousness.
The collaboration adds a spiritual layer to the project, with Tman describing the song as a message for youth, elders and the broader culture.
“If it were up to me, this is how the world would be,” he said, pointing to themes of reduced poverty, shared wealth and moral balance.
Spirituality as a Creative Compass
Known for emotive vocals and soulful expression, Tman Xpress made it clear that spirituality is central to his artistry. He described himself as a spiritual artist whose music is driven by the soul rather than trends or formulas.
This approach, he says, is deeply influenced by ancestral consciousness, prayer and life lessons—elements he intends to amplify in his upcoming work.
A New, Ancestral Sound for 2026
Looking ahead, Tman Xpress revealed that fans should expect a new sonic direction in 2026. While many associate him strictly with Amapiano, he plans to explore a more Afro-ancestral sound, characterised by traditional drums, lower BPMs and pan-African influences.
“It’s not Afro House,” he clarified. “It’s the ancestral Afro side—sounds that connect you to where African music truly comes from.”
The forthcoming project aims to reach beyond South Africa, incorporating textures and rhythms from across the continent.
Tman Xpress on AI and the Future of Music
Weighing in on the rise of AI-generated music, Tman Xpress expressed cautious skepticism. While acknowledging AI as a tool, he stressed that music cannot exist without human emotion and lived experience.
“AI learns from us,” he said. “It can’t create from the soul.”
He argued that while AI can replicate voices or styles, true authenticity—and ownership—remains rooted in human creativity, spirituality and intention.
A Message to the Fans: Music That Heals
Closing the conversation, Tman Xpress encouraged listeners to engage deeply with his catalog, describing his music as motivational and healing by design.
“Don’t sleep on the songs,” he said. “If you’re healing through the music, show it. That support speaks louder than words.”
