Music for Nathi MaQ, born Nkosinathi Maqanda, was never something that only played through speakers. It was part of everyday life while growing up. Whether it was at church services, cultural celebrations or community gatherings, rhythm and dance were always present.

But little did he know that those experiences would later become the foundation of his artistry with the sound that remains deeply connected to African dance music.

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“Kagiso is a township in Krugersdorp, so as with any other township, the people in there are all about rhythm and dance. That has always made me better understand the sounds that the actual consumers of music listen to and still helps me to this day.”

He said being surrounded by music from an early age gave him a unique understanding of what moves people on the dancefloor. It is a lesson he still carries with him whenever he steps into the studio.

Nathi MaQ said his love for music began while he was still in high school. Before pursuing higher education, he spent time as a rapper and was actively involved in music. However, life eventually took him in a different direction.

“I gave up music along the way and focused on education. Then filmmaking was what I fell in love with while I was in tertiary.”

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Although his path evolved over the years, his connection to music never disappeared.

Today, he describes his sound as deeply rooted in African dance music, with every collaboration, percussion pattern and vocal choice reflecting his identity and creative vision.

“I was born and bred in the township, so everything I know about making people dance, I learned on the township streets.”

And he is taking that culture to the suburbs, including Fourways. Nathi MaQ is equally committed to helping artists understand the business side of the industry, something he believes many talented musicians often overlook.

“It has always been painful to watch the downfall of artists I grew up listening to. Some were even close to me.”

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He credits Gumshev, a hip hop duo signed to Ghetto Ruff, as one of the acts that influenced him growing up.

“Those guys took me in as their little brother.” Witnessing artists struggle despite their talent motivated him to share his knowledge and make use of his law degree to help others navigate the industry.

His latest release, Embo, featuring Sannere and BlaQsun, speaks highly of both his musical roots and his vision for African unity.

“This song was inspired by me emphasising to the people I work with that tribal house music is the mother of African dance music. It’s a beautiful song that accommodates all nations. With it, I aim to unite Africans beyond language barriers and stereotypes.”

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