Amapiano has been a global landmark sound for fellow Africans in the past years alongside Afrobeats. Many South Africans have broken out into the international market because of their constant experimental contrivance to the Amapiano sound and amazing collaborations. EeQue has been in the game for quite some time with some big collaborations under his belt namely, KiD X, Pcee, Mr JazziQ and many more.
He now returns with his debut EP titled ‘Concrete Jungle‘ which features the likes of ThamaTee, 031Choppa, Dutch, Justin99, Pcee and many more. This follows his collaboration on Focalistic‘s ‘Khekheleza‘ which currently sits on over 2,3 million views on the visualizer. When we heard that he was dropping his debut EP, we could not help but to reach out for brief interview to get to know the multitalented vocalist as well as get more details around this release.
Disclaimer: Interview has been configured/edited for reading purposes.
How would you describe who EeQue is?
EeQue is a vocalist, rapper, songwriter from the East Rand. I am a very loving, focused and hard working individual.
When did your journey in music begin?
I first began recording in 2011 but I released my debut single in 2020 titled ‘Mama’ which featured award winning producer, Makwa. I have always been inspired by my family though as they loved music and were able to expose me to various musical sounds. I come from a family with a musical background so that helped with igniting my journey in music.
What made you transition from Hip-Hop to Amapiano?
Well for me, I do not see the transition as I do not categorise myself by genre. If anything, I love to say that I make music and not a genre as I am an artist at the end of the day and like any other artists, it is key to explore various sectors of that art as that is how the evolution of art starts.
How has it been collaborating with Uncle Waffles, Focalistic and Mr JazziQ?
It has been an experience and a half as I have learnt a lot under them within their respective journeys. I have also built solid relationships with them which has allowed for us to inspire one another within our musical journeys. And collaborating with them has also taught me the power of collaborations as my brand has since grown further because we understand how to share each other’s audiences.
How did the ‘Black is Brown’ deal come about?
So funny story, I used to work with Djy Zan who is a member of the ‘Zan’ten’ and at that time he used to send me a lot of beats. This was when I was still residing in my hood. Anyways, as we were recording on one of the sent beats, we then realised we had a hit on our hands and at that time the song circulated amongst people and that lead to the Black is Brown team discovering me as they loved the song. And I guess the rest is history.
With ‘Concrete Jungle’ being your debut Amapiano project, How would you describe the creative process for the project?
It was not that challenging but quite fun more than anything as we got to bounce off a lot of creative ideas amongst each other although we had a set plan when recording the EP as we had a particular sound in mind of which we managed to achieve. I am grateful that the timing of everything when making this project was on point as I got to be in studio with all the right people and this allowed me to explore other sides of my usual art so I am pretty much proud of the work and could not exchange the creation process for anything else.
What message do you aim to transpire through the project?
I wanted people to understand my real life stories and kind of resonate with my journey in life if they can and those that cannot resonate, at least be able to learn from those chapters of my life. I just want people to know me for me and not have an idea of who they want me to be so I would rather have the music speak for itself (which I feel it does).
What inspired the lead single to be ‘Zizojika’?
The song was inspired by a time in my life where I felt uninspired and really lost hope on things for a moment but by the walks of life I was able to make it through the moment which moulded my character and the person I am today. The practical meaning of the song is ‘things are going to change’ when translated in English and indeed I got to witness my life change for the greater good so hopefully it can lift someone up and give them the hope that they need to carry on with life and to continue pushing for their dreams.
What advice would you give to forthcoming artists that aspire to reach your level of growth?
Well for any artist that is trying to break into the industry or get to the stage I am at uhm…, I would advice them to work hard and believe in their craft as the belief they possess for their craft and talent will get them into rooms that seem impossible to walk in and allow them access to people that can elevate their careers further. Most importantly always show respect for people, time and relationships as respect can also bring a lot of much needed growth and exposure to opportunities that will help you in the long run.
What can fans expect from you after the EP release?
Fans can expect a lot of movements in the streets from me so prepare to see me at gigs, clubs and all these places that your favourite artists are at.
EeQue is one of many artist to look out for this year as his debut EP proves just that from the sound experience to the storytelling. It details his journey in the most authentic way and yet artistic way possible. You will definitely enjoy this project as it sets the tone for the weekend and forthcoming Spring season.
Stream ‘Concrete Jungle’ by EeQue below:
