Soweto hitmaker reflects on his journey from rapper to one of Amapiano’s most recognisable vocalists
After contributing to some of Amapiano’s biggest records and earning multiple platinum certifications, vocalist Philharmonic says his journey is only just beginning as he prepares to release a new EP while exploring fresh musical directions beyond the genre.
Speaking to TheJournalistDJ.com at the ATK Musiq album launch, the Meadowlands-born artist reflected on his rise from humble beginnings in Soweto to becoming one of the country’s most sought-after Amapiano vocalists.
‘The biggest fish in the universe’
Introducing himself with confidence and charisma, Philharmonic described himself as “the biggest fish in the universe” before highlighting an impressive list of career achievements.
The vocalist revealed that he has accumulated six platinum certifications, including three double-platinum records, an achievement he says represents more than just streaming numbers.
According to Philharmonic, a double-platinum song has surpassed five million streams, making the milestone especially meaningful for someone who grew up in Soweto and had to overcome doubts about pursuing a career as a vocalist.
“For a kid that comes from Soweto, that’s something big. Especially if a lot of people never believed that you’d make it as a vocalist.”
A musical upbringing in Meadowlands
Philharmonic credits his musical foundation to his late father, an R&B musician who inspired his passion for music from an early age.
Growing up in Meadowlands Vale, which he describes as a township filled with talent, Philharmonic initially pursued rap before experimenting with neo-soul. However, it wasn’t until Amapiano emerged that he found the sound that truly resonated with him.
“That’s where all my platinum records come from,” he explained, while adding that he has no intention of limiting himself to one genre.
Honouring his father’s legacy
The artist also reflected on the influence of his late father, acknowledging the musical heritage that shaped his career.
While his father is no longer alive, Philharmonic believes the talent passed down to him continues to guide his success in the industry, allowing him to carry on his family’s musical legacy through his own achievements.
Joining forces with ATK Musiq
At the ATK Music album launch, Philharmonic spoke about his contribution to the project’s second disc, appearing on the track “Umapakisha” alongside M-Keyz, ATK, Sicihe and Springle.
Describing his role on the record, he joked that listeners would recognise him by “the smoothest part ever,” saying his softer vocal delivery has become one of his musical trademarks.
He explained that the song draws inspiration from South Africa’s vibrant party culture, with the concept and chorus being driven largely by collaborator Sicihe.
New EP on the horizon
Although he has been consistently releasing singles, Philharmonic says he is now packaging his latest material into an EP, which he hopes to release around September.
The project will continue showcasing his Amapiano roots while introducing audiences to new creative ideas.
Neo-soul comeback in the works
While Amapiano has established his name, Philharmonic revealed that fans should also expect a return to his neo-soul roots later this year.
He explained that conversations with producers—many of whom have hip-hop backgrounds—inspired him to revisit soulful songwriting. After asking one producer to create Afro-soul instrumentals, he instead received neo-soul production that immediately resonated with him.
If all goes according to plan, listeners can expect new neo-soul music from the vocalist around November.
More than just an Amapiano vocalist
With platinum records, chart-topping collaborations and a willingness to experiment across genres, Philharmonic is positioning himself as an artist with long-term ambitions beyond the Amapiano movement.
“If you don’t know me, now you know me,” he concluded, an apt statement from a vocalist whose voice has already become familiar to millions of music fans.
