Anathi Mnyango (23) gives us an insight to his music production and love for hip hop. He also talks about the direction he plans to take in the industry.
How exactly did you get into music?
I started making beats when I was 2 because I didn’t know where I could find instrumentals for songs, so I made my own.
What were your other interests growing up?
I loved skateboarding and art.
If you weren’t doing music, what would you be working as?
I’d be an entrepreneur, which I currently do apart from my music career.
Is there any studying one needs to do to be a music producer?
People can study, but experience counts. I definitely recommend learning at least one instrument in addition to you taking the chance to learn through experience.
You have strong connections with international producers and artists, how did this come about?
My relationships are through traveling and seeking out opportunities to learn from the people I meet. The DJ Khaled feature came about when I was in Miami in 2010. I visited the We The Best Studios (Khaled’s studios); he liked the beat that I made and saw potential. This is when we started working on the Bananaz song together.
Who’s been the best artist you have worked?
All artists I have worked with, who include Da.L.E.S, Cassper Nyovest, Riky Rick and AKA, have come with their own unique talents, which I have learnt from.
Who would you like to still work with in future?
Hugh Masakela, Kanye West and Stevie Wonder, but I am also willing to work with anybody who has the right talent and attitude.
Why hip hop?
I wouldn’t classify myself as solely a hip-hop producer. I have done work in many other genres, it’s just that hip hop is very mainstream at the moment.
Let’s talk about the album you’re working on.
My album is a going to be variety of sounds, as far as the track selection goes. It will be my unique blend of African flavour with international pop and urban blend.
Feeling On Me has fans falling deeper in love with your music, what’s the story behind the song?
The song is about a personal experience where somebody else’s girl was trying to hit me up.
Any more singles to expect?
My production team and I will drop one more single before the album is released.
We know that you have a trip coming up in September to L.A. Can you fill us in on what you’ll be doing there?
I’m going to work on the album and some other opportunities. You’ll have to wait and see what I come back with.
When it comes to music, parents have still not grasped the concept of their kids starting young. Your mother has been your biggest supporter. What would you say to other parents who are not convinced about their children’s careers?
I’ve been extremely fortunate to have the backing of both my mother and entire family. I think it’s very important for parents to help nurture their children’s talents and encourage them to follow their dreams.
What other avenues can rappers use to make money?
Money in music comes from several avenues. There are sales, performances, publishing, writing, production, sync deals and endorsements.
What’s your advice to young talented people who want to get into the game?
Make sure you are passionate about it and you need to believe in yourself before anyone else will. You also need to keep honing your skills and learning from every opportunity you get; it doesn’t happen overnight!
