Veteran Jazz maestro Don Laka has praised the growth of Mzansi music, saying today's popular sounds are rooted in traditional rhythms.
He also warned that artificial intelligence (Al) will never replace real musical talent.
The 67-year-old legend from Mamelodi in Tshwane said that he's excited to see young artists pushing boundaries, especially in the fast-growing Amapiano scene.
Don, who is widely respected as a pioneer of local sounds such as Kwaito and Afro-soul, said many modern producers recognise the influence of Kwaai-Jazz, a sound he helped develop years ago.
“I’ve always been part of pioneering South African music, the young boys creating Amapiano told me they were inspired by Kwaai-Jazz. When listen now, hear those marching rhythms we grew up hearing in the villages. It's amazing to see our rural sounds travelling across the world,” he said.
According to Don, the rise of local genres shows that Mzansi music keeps evolving while staying true to its roots. He also spoke about the rise of Al in music production, saying technology con help musicians but can never replace real creativity.
Veteran Jazz maestro Don Laka.