From the small town of KwaSokhulu, North of KZN, 29-year-old Senzo Mfekayi, better known by his stage name Canary, is captivating audiences with his unique blend of Amapiano and Afro Soul. With a musical journey rooted in passion and resilience, Canary is quickly becoming a voice you can’t ignore.
Canary’s love for music started at a young age, fueled by his passion for hip-hop. Under the mentorship of his friend and producer, Sky Musiq, and alongside his brother Phila Dlozi, Canary honed his craft in school, creating tracks that embodied youthful creativity. “My roots in hip-hop remain strong,” he shares. “I’m grateful for the early start and Sky’s guidance.”
His artistic path took a transformative turn when he discovered Amapiano and Afro Soul. “These genres resonate deeply with me,” he explains. “Amapiano’s infectious beats and Afro Soul’s emotional depth create the perfect harmony of vibes and storytelling.” For Canary, Amapiano is more than just music—it’s a movement that uplifts communities and offers a gateway out of poverty for many young South Africans.
His music is a heartfelt blend of Amapiano’s energetic rhythms and Afro Soul’s evocative storytelling. “My lyrics are infused with personal experiences,” he says. “This sets me apart and gives my music an authentic, soul-stirring quality.” Drawing from real-life struggles and triumphs, his songs connect deeply with listeners, offering both entertainment and emotional resonance.
Inspired by the people and stories around him, He says his songwriting process is a testament to his ability to turn life’s challenges into melodies. “A valuable piece of advice I received was to craft catchy melodies and explore unconventional topics,” he reveals. This approach has helped him create relatable, unforgettable hits that push creative boundaries.
He envisions his music as a driving force in the evolution of Amapiano and Afro Soul. “I want to push the boundaries of these genres,” he shares. “By blending traditional elements with modern influences, I aim to showcase the richness of our cultural heritage while creating something fresh.”
For Canary, live performances are a magical exchange of energy. “When I’m on stage, I feel like I’m sharing a special moment with everyone in the room,” he says. Despite the occasional nerves, he finds solace in preparation and staying grounded. “I remind myself to expect the unexpected from the audience—it helps keep me calm.”
With aspirations as grand as his melodies, Canary aims to leave a lasting impact on the music industry. “In the short term, I’d love to win awards like the SAMAs and AFRIMAs,” he says. “Long-term, I dream of owning a globally respected recording label that showcases African talent to the world.”
Through his music, Canary hopes to inspire hope, resilience, and self-empowerment. “I want my songs to celebrate African culture and inspire people to stay positive,” he says. His music not only entertains but also fosters understanding and unity, bridging cultures and sparking meaningful conversations.
For Canary, music is more than a career—it’s a calling to uplift his community and the world. “If my music can inspire young people, showcase African beauty, and touch hearts, I’ll know I’ve made a real difference,” he concludes.
With his soulful melodies and unwavering vision, Canary is poised to soar to new heights, bringing the heart of KwaSokhulu to audiences far and wide.
Article by Mandisa Xhakaza
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