When life threw lemons her way, she seized the opportunity to make lemonade.
At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, she was retrenched from her nine-to-five job and had more than eniugh time on her hands. With very little hope, she hopped onto the social media streets to create content that was inspired by her childhood.
Growing up, not only did Khanyisa Jaceni make up different characters in her head just to keep her company but she also fed off from her deeply musical family who filled her childhood with joyous singing sessions. Her family would gather to share their love for music, not knowing that they were laying the foundation for Khanyisa’s journey as an artist.
Previously, Khanyisa admitted to Drum that she always knew that she’d be in the entertainment industry because from an early age she knew that she could sing and would perform for her family.
While she’s now known for buzz terms like “bottom line” and self-affirmative phrases on TikTok, she’s also known for her angelic vocal talents in top Amapiano songs, topping the music charts.
Read More | At first, her family was worried. Now they get what TikToker and yanos vocalist Khanyisa’s all about
Because of her inspirational journey, Spotify has made her the new face of the Equal Africa ambassador. The vocalist hailing from Mpumalanga joins fellow South Africans Tyla, Sio and Elaine who have previously headlined the programme.
“Equal Africa seeks to spotlight and amplify the voices of African female artists breaking down barriers and making waves in music. In addition, it amplifies their music by exposing their catalogue to global listenership,” the Spotify announcement reads.
It is clearly Khanyisa’s season of winning internationally as she’s done her bit locally and has now bought herself her first big car.
“Khanyisa's musical journey took a significant turn when she became one of the top 5 finalists in the Vodacom NXT LVL music competition in 2017. Following this breakthrough, she collaborated with renowned artists such as Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Malumz On Decks, Mr Jazziq, Lady Ou, Marcus MC, Tsiki XII, and Focalistic, releasing hit after hit that resonated with audiences around the world," the Spotify statement further reads.
“Her latest EP, Half Way, released after the success of Journeys and Soft showcases Khanyisa's exceptional talent and growth as an artist. The tracks Gyjima featuring Sir Trill and Inkhukhu featuring Kabza De Small and Muziqal Chef have become instant favorites, receiving immense love from fans. She is loved for her captivating audiences with her unique sound and undeniable stage presence.”
Through her music and social media content, Khanyisa spreads love and positive energy.
“Facing the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry demanded years of determination. From fear to intimidation, I've become courageous stepping out of my comfort zone," Khanyisa told Drum.
"His (God's) strength drives me, turning barriers into opportunities. I am a living proof of His grace, flourishing as I carve a new trail for women.”
“Her musical versatility, empowering message, and her sheer talent truly embody the essence of the Spotify EQUAL programme. We are excited to amplify her voice and celebrate her as an exceptional artist” says Spotify’s head of music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu.
What many may not be able to guess though is that Khanyisa is actually shy when interacting with people and she grew up listening to the songs of Freshly Ground, Barry White, and Michael Jackson who had a profound influence on my musical taste.
When she first started creating her TikTok videos though, her family did not understand why there’d be so much noise coming from her room.
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They have now grown to understand it all as they’ve seen the fruits of her labour.
Initially, Khanyisa struggled to tap into her personality which has now become the source of her success.
“It was the forehead video that made me gain traction and helped realise that people love my personality. Before, when I was on social media, I did what everyone else was doing. But [after that video], I then discovered that people love my personality and my overview on things,” she previously told Drum
"Then I started shooting them with my personality and here I am today!”
To anyone afraid of following their dreams, the singer's advice is: “Grabbing the opportunity to pursue your dreams spot on is highly recommended, as they hold immeasurable value.”
