It has been an exciting time for Paarl musician Athenkosi Xhontana who goes by the stage name Athi.
The Afro soul and RnB singer has dropped a new single called Ndaliwe (Been dumped) and can’t wait to get on the road and perform it for his fans.
The catchy single is expected to be formally launched in front of an audience and the media tomorrow, Friday April 26, at a venue in Khayelitsha to be announced.
Described by his manager as a multi-talented individual who thinks out of the box, Athi is also hard at work in the studio finishing a full-length Afro-soul album.
He said the new single speaks to all those who have been dumped in a relationship and those who are thinking of doing it.
Athi said he is happy to have come from a musical background where both parents can sing.
He started singing at an early age but started taking it seriously at age 14.
“Like many, I sang at home and on the streets, but now that music is something serious to me, a lot more is coming. Watch this space,” he said.
As he grew older he sang with a group called Chorus and Alatos from Mbekweni.
He later left the group and became a solo artist.
He said he has been lucky to have worked with the likes of Vicky Sampson and Gabi Le Roux. He also recently shared the stage with Paxton Fielies.
“But it is a tough industry. You need to have good people around you.
“I believe in my talent and the people around me. My manager is one of the best,” he said.
He was spotted by his manager Zandisile Rhayi who owns Rhayi Entertainment.
Zandisile said with the talent and passion that Athi has, both parties agreed to the working terms. “Our expectations for him are very high. He has a great talent.”
Ndaliwe will be available from digital stores from Friday April 26 or call Rhayi Entertainment on 073 992 9361 for more information.