Amanda Black kicks off Apple Music’s new video series
JOBURG – Apple Music’s Song Stories dives into the creative process, inspirations and challenges faced by some of the country’s leading artists.
Apple Music’s Song Stories is a new short form video series that dives into the creative process, inspirations and challenges faced by some of the country’s leading artists – Amanda Black, Ami Faku, Elaine, Nasty C and Sha Sha.
The Apple Music Song Stories offer a glimpse into what it takes to be the artists they are today and includes them sharing specific tales behind their latest tracks.
First up is Amanda Black. With songs ranging from the melancholic and introspective, to the more upbeat and celebratory, we find out more about what has made her such a creative force and sought-after multi-nominated platinum vocalist.
Her most recent track is Afrika, featuring Nigerian artist Adekunle Gold. Since the release of her well-acclaimed first single titled Amazulu, she has gone from strength to strength, and with Afrika she expresses her pride in being an African woman.
In the past she has spoken about how so much of her creative process was linked to her insecurities regarding her Xhosa heritage and growing up feeling uncomfortable in her own skin. This insecurity initially drove her to predominantly speak in English rather than her home-language, IsiXhosa. Discovering poetry led her to an immense appreciation of her roots.
Afrika reveals the extent of her pride in her culture and speaks about the importance and relevance of racial diversity. This is the reason behind her choice of “Black” as a stage name. Her mother played a hugely influential role in her life, teaching her a sense of dignity in her land, her people and her gifts as a musician.
Over the next few weeks Apple Music Song Stories will explore the work of Nasty C, Ami Faku, ShaSha and Elaine.
