Amapiano artist Mr JazziQ is working to connect South Africa’s vibrant music landscape with its enthusiastic automotive culture, believing that both can achieve global recognition.
The 30-year-old musician, known as Tumelo Manyoni, shared with Daily Sun that while Amapiano is experiencing increasing popularity worldwide, many musicians face challenges due to insufficient structure and professionalism.
“Our genre is powerful. I’ve performed around the world and every time South African music plays, the energy in the room changes,” he noted. “But to really take it global, we need to improve things like media training, time management, and have clear strategies as artists.”
Mr JazziQ reminisced about the beginnings of Amapiano, describing it as a movement initiated by those overlooked by the mainstream.
“We were rebels when we started. No one thought we’d last five years,” he expressed. “To the young ones feeling gatekept today: fight! Llwa ntombo!”
However, JazziQ’s passion for creative expression extends beyond music into the realm of automobiles.
“I’ve always loved cars,” he remarked. “As a kid, I would wait for my uncle to return home just so I could sit in his car and play music. That was my church at eight years old.”
This enthusiasm has evolved into a popular lifestyle event: Stance Social — a one-of-a-kind fusion of automotive culture and Amapiano sounds. Now in its third installment, the event is set to take place at the historic Old Park Station in Newtown, Johannesburg, on 1 November.
“Previously we held it in Alex, but we wanted to make it more accessible,” said JazziQ. “We’ve added new categories to our stance car competitions, and we’ve got some special guests pulling up. You’ll have to follow our socials to see who!”
According to JazziQ, Stance Social transcends mere exhibition — it fosters a sense of community.
“We’ve created a space where car lovers, music fans, and creatives can all come together. That’s what Mzansi is about — vibes, culture, and connection.”
With one foot planted in the music industry and the other on the accelerator, Mr JazziQ is demonstrating that innovation and culture can propel each other forward — reaching new heights.
