Warner Music Africa proudly presents, Sizwe Alakine’s follow-up single AmaVampire. The single succeeds his debut major label release, After Tears.
Opening with an oscillating synthesizer inducing sonic murkiness, AmaVampire imposes a chilling atmosphere conjuring the necessity for immediate light. Accompanied by a hefty Amapiano baseline and the percussive instruments these together recall the utility of the drum within African spiritualism.
Sizwe Alakine’s buoyant delivery initially rests on softer Amapiano timbres which are perfectly matched, together, both vocals and beat exude a somewhat nonchalant demeanour and disrespectful stance towards the imminent dark.
This same delivery, however, is later matched with a vigorous Amapiano baseline colourfully highlighting Alakine’s delivery and flaunting its nimble nature.
Boi Biza’s vocal technique fulfils a touch of this requirement through the exhibition of quiet power in vocality, amid the vague ambience. Meanwhile, like spiritual exorcism 2WO Short boasts robust vocals which put the vampires to flight.
“Creating this record was lots of fun and the energy in the room was mad, this is one for the streets. Rapiano is the evolution of my personal brand, which is also a homage to the sounds that raised me – Rap and Amapiano,” Sizwe says.
Sizwe Alakine, born Sizwe Kevin Moeketsi was introduced to the public as Reason – a now-legendary name within the South African entertainment industry. A multi–talented and award-winning artist, Sizwe’s 15 years in the entertainment industry is embellished with many accomplishments. Amongst his achievements are five South African Music Awards (SAMAs) nominees and four SA Hip Hop Awards (SAHHA).
• Make artist of the year 2013
• Best rap album 2013
• Remix of the year “hape” 2014
• Best Rap Album Nominee 2015
• Best Music Video 2017
• Lyricist of the year 2012 winner (SAHHA)
• Song of the year 2012 Winner (SAHHA)
• Verse of the year (SAHHA)
• Number 5 2017 winner (SAHHA)
No stranger to the silver screen, he has scored roles in some of South Africa’s most popular screen shows, such as, UBettina wethu (lead role), Eye for an Eye (lead role), The Coalition (presenter), Rhymes and Reason (presenter and producer), Rhythm City (Storyline lead), Ayeye (cameo), Isibaya (cameo), Mtunzini.com (Storyline lead).
Sizwe aka Reason has also collaborated and shared stages with some of the world’s top talent, among many others; Swizz Beats, Nas, Timbaland, Mick Jenkins, Sibongile Khumalo, Maphorisa, and Kabza De Small.
His major-label release, After Tears under Warner Music Africa featuring Dj Stokie, Boohle & Tycoon was slated for the 27th May release, and his debut Amapiano album, later this year.
Sizwe’s ability to reinvent himself and capture audiences spanning over a decade within different mediums of the entertainment industry proves his stating power, with his next era having eyes on the global stage.
Cece Smith 
Bongi Sikelo 