Pretoria producer reflects on broken beat roots, resisting trends, AI in music and why Afro House is only getting started
South African DJ and producer TEKNIQ believes longevity in music comes from knowing your strengths rather than chasing trends. During an interview with TheJournalistDJ.Com, the Pretoria-born producer opened up about his musical journey, why he never fully embraced Amapiano despite its dominance, and his optimism for the future of Afro House.
From the ‘King of Broken Beats’ to Afro House
TEKNIQ revealed that his career began in the broken beat scene, a genre that earned him early recognition before he transitioned into Deep House and Afro House.
“I was crowned king of broken beats when I started the game, but I ventured into Deep House and Afro House.”
The producer says those genres better reflected his artistic identity and have allowed him to evolve while remaining true to his sound.
Why He Didn’t Follow the Amapiano Wave
While many Pretoria producers found success in Amapiano, TEKNIQ says his decision not to fully pursue the genre wasn’t because he disliked it.
Instead, it was about artistic honesty.
“I love Amapiano,” he explained, adding that he simply felt other producers were better suited to define the sound. Although he has unreleased Amapiano records, he hinted that fans may eventually hear them as the genre continues to evolve.
‘Amasiko’ Was Inspired by the Pandemic
One of TEKNIQ’s most celebrated records, Amasiko, was born during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
The producer explained that witnessing people struggle emotionally inspired him to create uplifting music that could restore hope during uncertain times.
He believes musicians had a responsibility to lift people’s spirits, leading him to produce records such as Amasiko and Abu Libra, songs that continue to resonate with listeners because of their emotional and spiritual depth.
New Album ‘Monogram’ on the Horizon
Looking ahead, TEKNIQ confirmed that he is preparing to release a new album titled Monogram later this year.
As a preview, he recently dropped the EP Intro to Monogram, giving fans a glimpse into the project’s direction.
The forthcoming album will include:
- Libra Part 2
- My Life
- Collaborations with Malankane and Abstract
He says the EP serves as an introduction to the broader musical story he plans to tell through the full-length project.
AI Should Assist Creativity — Not Replace It
With artificial intelligence rapidly changing music production, TEKNIQ says every generation faces technological shifts.
Comparing AI to the industry’s transition from analogue recording to digital production, he believes technology should enhance creativity rather than replace it.
“I’m embracing it,” he said, while expressing hope that artists continue to preserve genuine artistic expression.
For TEKNIQ, creativity remains a gift that technology cannot replicate.
Afro House Is Just Getting Started
The producer predicts Afro House will remain one of South Africa’s dominant genres for at least the next three to four years.
He believes the genre is entering the same phase of growth that Amapiano experienced—constantly evolving while creating room for new styles and subgenres.
Rather than one genre replacing another, TEKNIQ sees South African dance music becoming increasingly diverse, with Afro House, Deep House, Amapiano and Gqom all thriving alongside each other.
He also pointed to the growing popularity of Afro House events and increasingly diverse festival line-ups as evidence that audiences are embracing multiple sounds simultaneously.
Supporting South African Music
Closing the interview, TEKNIQ praised platforms that give producers and DJs a voice, encouraging South Africans to continue supporting local music and one another.
“Music is growing. We’re growing as a community. Let’s support each other and grow together,” he said, reflecting on what he believes is an exciting new era for South African dance music.
