Afro House producer says patience, preparation and believing in his own sound led to landmark deal
Award-winning South African Afro House producer JNR SA says years of patience and hard work prepared him for one of the biggest milestones of his career after becoming the first artist officially signed to Tech Hub, the new Afro Tech record label founded by Kabza De Small in partnership with Sony Music Africa.
Speaking to TheJournalistDJ.com during the official signing event at Zioux in Sandton, the producer reflected on his journey from remixing Kabza De Small’s music to becoming one of the label’s flagship artists.
‘I Needed to Be Ready’
While many artists would have immediately contacted Kabza De Small after receiving his phone number, JNR SA revealed that he deliberately waited until he felt his artistry had matured.
“I just felt the need of building my sound before I could call him. I needed to be ready. So for this moment to happen, it found me ready. If I wasn’t prepared, it wouldn’t have happened,” he said.
The producer said signing with Tech Hub has come at exactly the right stage of his career.
From Remixing ‘Abalele’ to Working Alongside Kabza
JNR SA explained that his relationship with Kabza De Small began after he created an Afro House remix of Kabza’s hit song “Abalele.”
He noticed that while Amapiano songs dominated the charts, very few producers were reimagining them for the Afro House scene.
“I saw a loophole within the Afro House scene where there were no big Amapiano songs being remixed. So I decided to remix those songs,” he explained.
Their first meeting wasn’t without tension, as Kabza initially questioned the use of his intellectual property. However, the encounter quickly turned into the beginning of a professional relationship.
“We exchanged numbers and the rest was history,” JNR SA recalled.
SAMA Win Became a Turning Point
The producer also reflected on winning the 2024 South African Music Award (SAMA) for Best Remix of the Year for his remix of Brenda Fassie’s classic Weekend Special.
According to JNR SA, the award gave him confidence that he was moving in the right direction.
“It was such a great moment for me. I felt like it was a sign that told me I should keep on going. Look at where we are now—signing a beautiful deal with a beautiful record label and a beautiful team behind it.”
No Pressure Despite Historic Signing
Being the first artist signed to Tech Hub inevitably brings expectations, especially considering the influence Kabza De Small has had on South African music.
However, JNR SA insists he is embracing the opportunity with confidence rather than pressure.
“To be honest, I don’t feel any pressure because I’m good at what I do. I have my own sound and people love my sound. It was bound to happen, and I’m grateful that it happened at the right time.”
Contributing to Kabza’s Music
Beyond his own releases, JNR SA has already contributed to some of Kabza De Small’s recent projects as a co-producer.
Why He Often Records in Zulu
Although JNR SA is Tswana, he explained that many of his songs feature Zulu lyrics because he believes the language naturally complements Afro House music and helps communicate emotion more effectively.
“I feel like the Nguni language is more appealing when it comes to giving out a certain message. It’s also about connecting with Zulu-speaking vocalists and bringing together a beautiful song.”
A New Chapter for Afro Tech
As Tech Hub begins building its artist roster, JNR SA’s appointment as its first signing signals Kabza De Small’s confidence in the producer’s ability to help shape the future of Afro Tech music. With a SAMA award, high-profile production credits and a growing catalogue of acclaimed releases, JNR SA believes years of preparation have positioned him for the opportunity.
“The people love my sound, so I’m grateful for them,” he said.
