Rising Amapiano star Sykes continues to make waves in the South African music scene, and his journey has been marked by collaborations with some of the industry’s biggest names. Recently, he opened up about his admiration for one of the country’s most influential hitmakers, DJ Maphorisa, describing him as both a mentor and his favourite artist to work with.
In a recent interview on The In’S podcast, Sykes expressed his deep respect and gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with Maphorisa, affectionately known as Phori. Reflecting on their first encounter, Sykes said, “Phori has to be my favourite. I remember so clearly the first time I got to talk to him — I was shaking, you know? I felt nervous because I understood how much he’s achieved and how many hits he’s made. Only to find that he’s the most humble and friendliest person out of all the people I’ve met. Phori is a good guy.”
The heartfelt statement has resonated with fans, many of whom appreciate seeing younger artists pay homage to the pioneers who helped shape the Amapiano sound. DJ Maphorisa’s influence in the South African music industry is undeniable—his production genius has birthed countless hits and launched the careers of several prominent stars. For Sykes, working with him wasn’t just another collaboration; it was a dream come true and a major step in his artistic evolution.
While DJ Maphorisa has occasionally faced criticism and rumours regarding his work with up-and-coming artists, stories like Sykes’ paint a very different picture—one of mentorship, collaboration, and humility. Many artists who have worked with Maphorisa often echo similar sentiments about his generosity, creativity, and willingness to uplift others in the game.
Sykes’ admiration for Maphorisa also highlights the importance of respect and gratitude in the music industry. In a space where egos can often clash, his words are a refreshing reminder that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of humility or kindness.
As Sykes continues to grow his brand and solidify his place in Amapiano, his partnership with DJ Maphorisa marks a significant chapter in his career. With such genuine appreciation and passion for his craft, it’s clear that Sykes is not only destined for greater heights but is also learning from the very best in the business.
