At the 2026 Metro FM Awards black carpet, Thembinkosi ‘TK’ Nciza shared heartfelt reflections on artist recognition, the evolution of South African dance music, and watching his son grow into an internationally connected DJ and producer.
“Being Honoured Matters More Than Getting Paid”
The veteran music executive emphasized the importance of recognition in the entertainment industry, encouraging young artists to value awards and appreciation beyond financial success.
“There’s one thing I like and respect, artists being honored,” said TK Nciza during the interview. “Sometimes getting paid is not as big as being honored.”
He urged the younger generation of musicians and creatives not to overlook the emotional and career significance of industry recognition.
“You’ll always make gigs, but come and appreciate being honored. It’s something very special,” he added.
Supporting His Son’s International Music Journey
Known for helping shape the careers of several South African stars through TS Records, TK Nciza also opened up about supporting his own son’s music career.
Rather than managing every aspect directly, he explained that his role is now more about guidance and support.
“I’m just giving support,” he said. “He has a very strong team that is all over the world.”
According to Nciza, his son recently signed with an international management structure, positioning him for global growth as a DJ, songwriter, and producer.
“I’m just happy to see him developing and becoming a really international DJ, songwriter, producer,” he said. “What’s important is for him to contest with the best in the world.”
TK Nciza Weighs In on the Future of 3Step
The conversation also touched on the fast-growing 3Step movement, a sound many believe could become the next major South African dance genre after Amapiano.
Nciza described 3Step as an extension of Afro House rather than a completely separate genre.
“I think 3Step is a subgenre of Afro House,” he explained. “It’s a slower version of Afro House with a fusion of piano.”
He also pointed out that the sound has existed for years, crediting earlier pioneers while acknowledging the younger generation for commercializing and modernizing it.
“These young people have been able to commercialize it and really make it sound the way it sounds,” he said.
“3Step Will Never Die”
While trends in dance music continue to evolve rapidly, TK Nciza believes 3Step has long-term staying power.
“I don’t think 3Step will die,” he said confidently. “It has been there for long.”
He referenced artists transitioning between 3Step and Afro House, suggesting that the genres will continue influencing one another as the culture develops.
“It will never die. It just has to evolve,” Nciza concluded.
