Kwaito music maestro, Mandla Mofokeng did not get his nickname Spikiri (a nail) from being a soft-spoken guy; he got it because he is as tough as nails and he is strong and determined.
With over 30 years of experience in the Mzansi entertainment industry, Spikiri feels radio stations do not respect the kwaito genre. He feels his contribution and that of his fellow kwaito colleagues to the growth of South African music is going unnoticed.
“Radio does not play our music. New school artists do not respect the contribution we have given in South African music industry because of this.”
Spikiri says he respects young artists like Cassper Nyovest, ProKid, AKA, and K.O. who have a vision and who acknowledge the golden oldies.
Without calling out the haters and avoiding to sound, bitter Spikiri acknowledges the contribution Hlaudi Motsoeneng had by the 90% local music rule on SABC radio stations. But, he says, their music is still not being played.
“It’s like we have to go straight to Hlaudi to have our music played.”
Spikiri says his latest album Kwaito Revolution, which features unheard music by the late Mandoza, and artists like Professor, Mshoza and Bricks is not getting any airplay.
“Some of us are breadwinners and that is why Mzansi musicians die paupers. People want to show gratitude after you are dead. Play our music, respect us,” Mandla says.
