‘I haven’t got my big break yet’
Anatii wants to work with more big artists
DESPITE rapper Anatii being one of the biggest names in the local hip-hop industry, he doesn’t believe he has had his big break yet.
“I don’t think I’ve achieved success yet,” he insists. “My career is a constant journey and I work on my dreams every day.”
Although the producer and musician, whose real name is Anathi Mnyango, celebrated his 24th birthday a few days ago, he started working in the industry at just 14.
With legendary producer and composer Lebo M as his mentor, he worked on a compilation for soft drink giant Coca-Cola in 2009. He says his love for music comes from his late father, who was a radio DJ in the 1980s.
“My mother also loved music and I grew up in a home where music was always playing.”
Since then, the musician managed to add impressive accolades to his name, which include releasing his own album and collaborating with the best in the business. This includes fellow rapper AKA, with whom Mnyango released the single 10 Fingers earlier this month.
Although the pair are said to have had a spat last year, he insisted they have a great working relationship. “We have really good chemistry and share the same sentiments.”
He reckons the single has been well received because of its inspirational lyrics and says people can relate to it.
“The song speaks about where we come from and is motivational, but is also fit to play in the club.”
He adds that the release also came as a surprise to their fans. “People didn’t expect music from AKA and myself, and the response has just been amazing.”
Although he has worked with the biggest musicians locally, as well as abroad, including DJ Khaled and Omarion, he plans to add a few more collaborations to the list.
He insists he would enjoy working with any artist who is passionate about their craft and would like to partner with fellow musicians Wizkid, Travis Scott and Young Thug soon.
“Each working experience is unique, and it depends on how we vibe in the studio.”
Although Mnyango has enjoyed collaborating with other musicians, he says the highlight of his career was when he released his album Artiifact in September, which was the number one seller on iTunes in South Africa at the time.
He admits he received direction from his colleagues, which he says has proved invaluable in his career.
The best advice he ever received came from his manager, AKA and Omarion. “They told me that I must make music I enjoy.”
His advice to others who aspire to follow in his footsteps is simple: “Realise your dreams, stay focused, don’t be deterred by negative energy.”