Ntsako XVI is quickly becoming one of the most exciting new names in the evolving amapiano scene following the release of his buzzing single “Ngeke.” Featuring Shaun 101, Ch’cco, Scotts Maphuma and Uncool MC, the track has already gained major momentum online and introduced fans to Ntsako XVI’s fresh new sound called “Nyakanyaka.”
Speaking in an interview with The Yanos Mag, the producer opened up about the inspiration behind the song, the rise of the dance trend on TikTok, and his vision for the future of amapiano.
1. What inspired the creation of “Ngeke,” and at what point did you realise the track had the potential to become a major moment in your career?
The inspiration behind the creation of “Ngeke” was to make a happy and groovy song for the dance floor. I realised the song had potential when it started gaining traction on TikTok from a mixtape we had shot.
2. “Ngeke” has already been linked to more than 80,000 TikTok creations. Why do you think the song has connected so strongly with listeners and creators online?
It connected strongly with listeners because it’s catchy and carries a good feeling. Most importantly, it’s just a really good song.
3. You describe your new sound as “Nyakanyaka.” How would you define this era, and what makes it different from traditional Amapiano?
It’s a sound created to bring fire to the dance floor and introduce something fresh while staying different from other sounds. What makes it different is that many of the elements are inspired by different genres, which gives it a unique identity.
4. The collaboration brings together Shaun 101, Ch’cco, Scotts Maphuma and Uncool_MC. How did each artist contribute to the energy and identity of the track?
I think each artist contributed perfectly because they all understood the concept and matched the energy of the song.
5. The production blends Amapiano, Gqom, dark tech sounds and tribal percussion. How did you approach balancing all these influences without losing the song’s mainstream appeal?
To balance everything, I used sounds that mainstream listeners are already familiar with, which made the track more relatable and not too different.
6. You mentioned that you usually focus on instrumentals. What did working with strong vocal performances teach you creatively during the making of “Ngeke”?
It taught me that being versatile is important and that stepping out of your comfort zone to create something new is a good thing.
7. The log drum plays a major role in the song’s identity. Why is that sound so important to your production style and the overall Nyakanyaka direction?
It’s important because it introduces the sound to the listener before they even know it’s Nyakanyaka. It’s also something I always make sure stands out in most of my songs.
8. Your music is designed for “real spaces and real people.” What kind of atmosphere or feeling were you hoping fans would experience when hearing “Ngeke” in clubs or at events?
I wanted people to feel free and dance their lungs out, but most importantly, to experience a good feeling, good vibes and the excitement of hearing a great song.
9. South African Amapiano continues to evolve rapidly. Where do you see yourself fitting into the next generation of producers shaping the genre globally?
I see myself improving as a producer and growing the sound to reach its highest quality. Most importantly, I want to keep learning through working with more musicians locally and globally.
10. With “Ngeke” introducing this new chapter, what can fans expect from your upcoming releases and future collaborations later this year?
Fans can expect more music and a wider variety of sounds from me, beyond just creating songs for the dance floor. They can also expect more collaborations, as I’m currently working with many different artists.
As amapiano continues evolving globally, Ntsako XVI sees himself helping shape the next generation of producers while continuously improving his sound through collaboration and experimentation.
With “Ngeke” introducing the Nyakanyaka era, fans can expect even more music, fresh sounds, and exciting collaborations from the rising producer throughout the year.
Make sure to stream “Ngeke” HERE.
