Alexandra-born producer Nothing’s Music is living proof that talent from the township can make waves far beyond its borders. In a heartfelt interview, the multi-talented artist and IT graduate opened up about his musical roots and dedication to creating soul-stirring beats.

“Being a child from Alexandra, the streets were full of rhythm and vibing,” he recalled. His sister’s love for R&B, where she’d scribble lyrics into book pages, sparked his early interest. At just 12, his late cousin taught him to listen to songs and mentally break them down into instruments, planting the seeds of a production mindset. By 2010, a producer friend handed him his first computer, and a visit to the 41 PLC home studio changed everything.

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Initially a rapper, Nothing’s Music quickly discovered his gift for making beats, especially after the crew’s regular producer found a day job. He started producing for himself and friends, then expanded into recording, mixing, and full productions for other artists. As an IT graduate, he realised his qualification alone wouldn’t sustain him. “I resorted to my passion, and I would still make that decision again.”

His influences run deep and wide: locally, Skwatta Camp, Flabba, ProKid, Thandiswa Mazwai, Lira and Selaelo Selota; internationally, Common, Eminem, André 3000 and Sade. He draws from South African greats like Hugh Masekela. “Music is one culture. I am not genre-specific but rather fluid.” His productions often blend soulful, rhythmic sounds that speak to the heart, mixing conscious vibes with raw township energy.

The producer’s process starts with melodies or hooks, often captured on his phone, then builds beats around them or lets a strong instrumental inspire lyrics. He favours FL Studio but knows Cubase and Reason well. Challenges such as Beats In The Streets live productions push him to create full songs in a day.

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Alexandra’s rich heritage, from Dark City Sisters to unsung kasi legends and Flabba’s influence, shapes his sound. “The sounds are often raw… hard and aggressive,” he noted, reflecting the place of his birth.

One standout project is Patrol by Keoraps (formerly Noisy of Skraal). The track, about the tough realities of security work, required a deep understanding of the artist’s story. “It is important to sit down with the artist… As soon as he explained, I began to embody the song and produce it like it was my own.”

In a tough industry, Alexandra’s son stays true to his roots, proving that passion and perseverance turn local dreams into powerful music.

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