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We interview SA’s new “it” girl and undeniable musical prodigy – the super-cool, Toya Delazy. This one’s going places folks and we’re stoked we got to interview her before she gets there!
Muso: Toya Delazy
Label: Sony Music Africa
Years performing: 2009 – 2012
What’s it like being the new ‘it’ girl and having everyone know your name?
It’s really cool, but at the same time it can be overwhelming. At this stage, I’m not sure it’s really sunk in but I’m enjoying every moment.
Describe what the last few months have been like for you?
They have been really challenging and I’ve had to grow really fast, but I’ve learnt a lot. One thing I’ve realised is that there’s still so much to learn. Now things are really starting to heat up.
How would you describe fame to the outsider?
It’s like walking into an elevator and as you do, everyone inside the lift stops talking. As they leave, they start giggling. That’s really how I would describe it.
When you first heard people singing along to Pump It On – what did you think and how did it feel?
I was extremely excited. At first people knew the chorus, but eventually they were able to single the bridge and all the verses. I was blown away. I was just so happy I could breathe, because now I knew people loved it.
You’ve been composing music since you were 5 – was there any stage in your life where you didn’t think your life/career would be music?
Oh yes! When I was growing up I really didn’t think it would happen, I had dreams of being a paediatrician. When I decided to do it, I spoke to my family about it and they were a little hesitant, so again I didn’t think it would actually happen. But I’m so very glad it did. I can’t imagine doing anything else now.
There’s really no one quite like you on the local music scene at the moment – were you nervous at all before your music got out there how people would respond?
I was nervous, but I also couldn’t wait to try it out. I had it all planned in my mind. I had done a few small shows and the response was good, but I really didn’t think it would blow up like it has.
What’s your favourite song on Ode?
Right now, I’m loving Love Is In The Air. But I go through phases, so on different days I love different songs. Really I think of each song like a child, so it’s always difficult to pick your favourite.
You have a strong classical background – do you think this should be true of all musos/bands/artists?
No not really, it all depends on what would work best for the artist. My classical background has helped me so much, I’m more structured and I have confidence to play live shows. So for me, it’s been great but that’s not to say that it will help all artists.
How important is it for you to be an inspiration and role model to young South Africans or is simply making music and the process what it’s all about?
At first I started just thinking about making music and doing what I loved, but it wasn’t long before I realised that younger people were looking up to me. I’m a public figure now and I can’t ignore that it comes with some responsibility. I’m not going to change who I am, but I want my fans to be inspired to be themselves – that’s my message. That’s why I hope they look up to me.
If you collaborate with any artist, living or deceased who would it be?
I’d really like to do something with David Guetta. It would be cool to see what concoction we could come up with. I’d also like to work with Mark Ronson and I’d love to jam with Nirvana.
Were you star struck at all at this year’s SAMAS?
I was honoured to be there and it was really exciting. Most of the artists I’ve met earlier at social occasions, but to be there with them was amazing.
What are the SAMA goodie bags really like – we wanna know?
I didn’t get a goodie bag, so I would also really like to know.
What makes you proudly South African?
That fact that we have people like Nelson Mandela in this country makes me really proud – you can’t find that anywhere else. I also really love the fact that our country is so forward thinking, we have an amazing constitution and a country that appreciates equality. It’s a diverse country, I just love it.
Photos by Ross Garrett
