From the streets of The Orchards in the north of Pretoria to national stages, alternative artist Imani Basquiat is steadily carving his name into South Africa’s evolving music landscape through a sound he describes as progressive soul.

Known for blending elements of soul, funk, disco and contemporary alternative music, the northern creative has already built an impressive résumé with only a few years in the industry.

He is a two-time SAMA nominated writer, has secured multiple features in Hype Magazine, charted on Apple Music’s alternative charts, and performed at major events including Cotton Fest and Homecoming Africa.

Despite the growing recognition, Basquiat said his love for creativity started long before the spotlight found him.

He explained that his upbringing played a major role in shaping both his artistic identity and worldview.

“My parents were and still are where all of this came from. I was exposed to the expansive world of creativity from a young age.

“My upbringing was rich with freedom to explore and express myself through visual art, fashion, writing and later music.”

Growing up surrounded by music also left a lasting impression on him. Basquiat recalls how his parents hosted disco parties at home, moments that unknowingly planted the seeds for his future career.

“I saw how music made people feel carefree and alive. Years later, that same chord was struck within me,” he said.

That passion eventually led him to start recording music with high school friend and SAMA award-winning producer Feziekk.

Through experimentation and collaboration with producer Baitu Manong, Basquiat said they developed the signature progressive soul sound that listeners now associate with him.

While many emerging artists often seek quick fame, Basquiat said patience became one of the biggest lessons throughout his journey.

“The biggest challenge was developing patience with the journey and understanding the nuances of the industry itself.

“I chose to play a longer and more worthwhile game than what most artists gravitate towards because of its ease,” he explained.

For Basquiat, success is measured less by awards and more by the impact his music has on listeners.

He said one of the most defining moments in his career came when a supporter shared how deeply one of his songs had affected them emotionally.

“That’s when I realised there was way more value in the music and putting it out there than whatever accolades may come with the journey,” he said.

His breakout single Groove Theory became a turning point in his career, attracting national attention and introducing audiences to what he believes is his most authentic sound yet.

“Groove Theory was inspired by the disco and funk sounds I grew up on, fuelled by a relationship experience I had gone through.

“I think people gravitated towards it because it felt truly like me.”

Outside of music, Basquiat is also involved in fashion and creative direction through his luxury streetwear brand ARTMAFIA.

He describes himself as a modern-day renaissance man with interests ranging from skincare and selfcare, to live shows, galleries and fitness.

Together with Baitu Manong and Regopotswe Molapo, Basquiat also co-founded Forgotten Soul Records, which he describes as more than just a label.

“It’s a creative hub that’s going to churn out some of the best talent the world has ever seen,” he said.

Basquiat has his sights set on global recognition, immersive creative projects and building a lasting legacy through his music.

“Don’t be afraid to bet on yourself,” he said when asked what advice he has for young creatives.

Do you have more information about the story?

Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.

For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East

For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok or WhatsApp Channel