Amapiano star LeeMckrazy is living a dream that once seemed far beyond his reach. The 27-year-old artist, whose real name is Linda Mnisi, is set to share the stage with Amapiano heavyweights DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small, popularly known as the Scorpion Kings, at their highly anticipated show at FNB Stadium in Nasrec, south of Johannesburg, on Saturday, 19 September.
For LeeMckrazy, the opportunity represents more than just another performance. It is a full-circle moment that reflects how far he has travelled in his musical journey and the sacrifices he made along the way.
“Firstly, I’d like to appreciate the opportunity given. It’s my first time being in this light with DJ Maphorisa and Kabza. This means a lot to me and my music journey,” he said.
Before making his mark in the Amapiano scene, LeeMckrazy was a University of Johannesburg student studying Logistics in Transport Management. He also spent time singing in local and church choirs, playing diski and hustling to make ends meet.
His journey has not always been easy. There were periods when financial challenges made it difficult for him to record and release music or even afford studio sessions with other artists.
“I had times when I couldn’t drop my music, times when I had to hustle hard to get to studio sessions with other artists,” he shared.
Those experiences, however, taught the rising star valuable lessons about perseverance and building a future beyond music.
“I’ve learnt not to give up on life because as a person you can’t only focus on one thing. As I’ve mentioned I was a hustler before and I can still open my own businesses and keep generating money,” he said.
Throughout his journey, LeeMckrazy says his mother remained one of his biggest supporters. She encouraged him to believe in his voice and continue pursuing his gift regardless of the challenges he faced.
“She said I have a voice and believes I can do it and that no matter what happens I should carry on because that’s the gift I have and no one will take it away from me.”
As he prepares for the Scorpion Kings stage, LeeMckrazy understands that the music industry requires resilience.
“This game needs a strong heart and a smart mind with pure energy. You must be ready for disappointments, headaches, sleepless nights and risks but all in all put lot of effort in your work and respect others,” he said.
From singing in church choirs to performing alongside two of Amapiano’s biggest names, LeeMckrazy’s journey is a reminder of how persistence can turn seemingly impossible dreams into reality.
