“There’s No Kabza Without Phori”: Nota Baloyi Hails DJ Maphorisa as Father of Amapiano
In a lively chat on the Piano Pulse podcast, South African music boss Nota Baloyi stepped in for host Sfiso and shared his sharp views on the music world. From breaking down how to brand artists to giving props to DJ Maphorisa for changing his life, Nota kept it real. He even pulled a prank about an AI artist taking over charts, sparking talks on how tech could shake up Amapiano and beyond. The episode, dropped just days ago, has fans buzzing about its raw takes on the industry’s highs and lows.
Piano Pulse, part of the Podcast and Chill network, brings fresh chats on Amapiano and SA tunes. With Nota at the helm, the show dived deep into topics like why young artists shun mentorship and how poor branding holds back big stars. His words come at a time when SA music is booming globally, but faces new threats like AI-generated tracks stealing streams from real creators.
Branding vs Marketing: Nota’s Masterclass for Aspiring Artists
Nota kicked off by explaining the gap between marketing and branding artists. He called branding a “promise” that fans expect every time. Marketing, he said, is about buying ads or pushing exposure, while promotions build buzz without cash swaps. “A brand is a promise,” Nota stressed, using examples like engine fuel stations where you know what you’ll get.
He urged artists to brand through image, style, and sound. For image, he praised Tyla for her rooted look that screams black pride and empowerment. On sound, Kelvin Momo’s “private school piano” vibe stands out as his brand. Nota suggested linking Momo to brands like Jeep for chill, outdoor feels that match his calm tracks.
For style, he hailed Mahoota as a top pick, tying her Durban girl energy to luxury spots like Oceans Mall or hotels. He slammed many Amapiano stars for mismatched looks, like Gucci outfits that clash with ancestor-themed lyrics. “Which Amapiano artist can you put next to international stars based on branding? None,” he claimed, noting no one rivals hip-hop’s Hennessy ties.
Nota shared how he monetises branding through deals, like flying SA rappers to link with global names like Nas. He warned that without strong brands, artists miss out on big cash from endorsements.
Hailing DJ Maphorisa: “Phori Changed My Life, Gave Me Two Benzes”
Nota gave big ups to DJ Maphorisa, calling him the “pops” of Amapiano. He said Phori built careers for stars like Gabza De Small and Focalistic, putting food on tables. “There’s no Gabza without Phori,” Nota declared, stressing Phori’s sweat in reviving acts like Mafikizolo and teaching swag to Wizkid.
He shared his own story: “I drive two Benzes because of Phori. He changed my life.” Nota slammed young artists for not respecting mentors, saying this “no sunning” attitude hurts the game. He hit at Young Stunna for calling Gabza his pops, insisting all are Phori’s “sons” in the biz. This echoes Nota’s past praises, where he credits Phori for his success, including hits like Sister Bettina. Fans online agree, with one X post saying Nota “schooled those kids” on respecting OGs.
Babalwa M’s Stage Flops and Live Performance Woes
Nota didn’t hold back on Babalwa M’s Joburg Day gig. He slammed her casual outfit – baggy jeans and hoodie – as disrespect to the big stage. “She looked like she just bought bread and milk,” he said, urging female artists to wear fresh fits worth at least R5,000 to R10,000.
He rated her live vocals low, a 4/10, saying she relies too much on studio autotune without bringing it to shows. “She doesn’t perform with a band, just on the track,” Nota added, noting bum notes ruin her sets. He compared her to Beyoncé, who keeps autotune consistent.
Nota shared tales of Kwesta fumbling drunk interviews, but stressed artists must own up as adults. Online, clips of Babalwa’s shows back his point, with mixed fan reactions on her energy.
AI Invasion: “Three Years Left Before Machines Take Streams”
In a twist, Nota pranked hosts about AI artist Zanya Monet charting at number 5 on Apple Music with a 23-track album. They checked – it’s real, but he joked it’s AI. “AI can make 400,000 tracks an hour,” he warned, while humans upload 200,000 daily to Spotify.
He said AI steals from the 70% streaming pool for artists, leaving humans broke. “Computers don’t buy houses for parents,” Nota quipped. He urged building fan communities and brands AI can’t copy, like live shows and culture ties.
This ties to global fears, with AI music rising. Nota said festivals will stick to branded stars, but new acts must focus on humanity in art.
Industry Shifts: Sony Changes and Award Noms
Nota spilled on Sony restructuring for local tunes, adding A&R folks to scout streets as SA music out-earns international. He claimed ex-director status at Orchard SA, part of Sony.
On SAMAs, he slammed delayed noms – cut-off in March, awards in November. “We’re judging old music,” he said. He suggested Zoom votes for fresh picks.
He questioned collabs like Samthing Soweto pulling from a track, asking if it deserves awards if it “uncollaborated.”
Nota’s Life: Manager, Gifts, and Future Gigs
Nota gifted hosts tees, saying he passes on freebies. He revealed manager Sandile handles admin while he dreams big.
He plans a Limpopo trip for a pal’s mom’s birthday. No events soon, but he’s open.
This episode shows Nota’s mix of wisdom and spice, keeping SA music talks alive. As AI looms, his call for strong brands rings true for artists aiming to last.
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