AmaKST Unveils Debut EP “The Return of the Prodigal Son”
Bulawayo’s vibrant music scene has been given a fresh spark as the AmaKST duo, comprising King Sera and Twiza TM Cool, recently released their much-anticipated debut extended play (EP), The Return of the Prodigal Son. The eight-track project, officially launched on November 25 last year, marks a significant milestone for the Nkulumane 12-based artists, as they embark on their journey in the booming amapiano genre.
In an interview with NewsDay Life & Style, vocalist Twiza TM Cool shared the challenges the duo faced in bringing the project to life. Initially scheduled for release on November 23, the EP was delayed by two days due to unforeseen setbacks. “The album was meant to be dropped on November 23 , but we ended up releasing it on November 25,” Twiza explained. “We had some issues that we faced and could not drop it.” Despite these challenges, the duo persevered, ensuring that the EP reflected their passion and commitment to their craft.
The EP features a mix of dynamic collaborations, including contributions from Tee_Beats, D’Jelmar, Ashley, Longnus Huncho from Tanzania, and Kayoto. Tracks like Iyano (ft Ashley), Black Label, Beke Le Beke, African Sounds (ft Longnus Huncho), and Bhalansa Tsotsi (ft Kayoto) showcase AmaKST’s ability to fuse infectious amapiano beats with meaningful lyrics.
Drawing inspiration from the former South African amapiano duo Amaroto (Zuma and Reece Madlisa), AmaKST is determined to create a lasting legacy. “We have been helping some up-and-coming artistes in the community, managing them so that we can get to the top of the mountain together,” Twiza said. The duo has also been active in their local community, organizing events such as the Kasi to Kasi Chillout to promote local talent and provide a platform for aspiring musicians.
With The Return of the Prodigal Son, AmaKST sees this as the beginning of a promising journey in the amapiano industry. “This is just the start of greater things to come,” Twiza said, hinting at their ambitious plans for the future.
As Bulawayo’s amapiano scene continues to grow, AmaKST is undoubtedly a duo to watch. Their dedication to their craft, combined with their commitment to uplifting their community, makes them a rising force in Zimbabwe’s music industry. Fans can expect more exciting projects and performances from this dynamic pair as they continue to push boundaries and make their mark.