Cruz Afrika has never shied away from calling out people he feels have crossed him, but after several highly public clashes with fellow artists, the musician says he is ready to put old tensions behind him and move forward.
Over the years, the African Trap performer and influencer, whose real name is Tshepo Modise, has repeatedly found himself at the centre of controversy. He previously accused singer Aubrey Qwana of taking his song, Molo, and later became embroiled in a dispute with rapper Emtee linked to an Illuminati conspiracy theory.
Now older and more focused, Cruz Afrika says he has left behind the desire to “chase clout” as he prepares to return with new music. He is also hoping to repair relationships with everyone he has clashed with before and begin again with a clean slate.
His comeback single, Tau, is scheduled for release on 5 September and will include a surprise guest feature.
The track arrives after a two-year break from releasing his own music. During that time, Cruz Afrika concentrated on work behind the scenes, including building the career of his artist, DJ Lisa.
“I have not put out music for two years,” he says. “I was busy promoting DJ Lisa and doing behind-the-scenes work, making sure that when I came back with music, I had a strong product.”
He believes both his sound and his outlook have evolved since his earlier days in the spotlight. “Before, we were trying to trend and become known,” he says. “Now we are making quality music that can last forever.”
Beyond music, Cruz Afrika has completed filming his own reality series, which is expected to debut on Moja Love in August.
“I am excited for people to see a different side of my life,” he says. While audiences may recognise his name from his songs and headline-making disputes, he insists there is much more to him away from the controversy. “People know who I am, but they do not know me beyond the music and the drama. I have a successful business that I run behind the scenes.”
Cruz Afrika first gained recognition as a young dancer and choreographer, working with major names including Zola7, Stoan from Bongo Muffin and Jub-Jub. Over the course of his music career, he has collaborated with Phila Madlingozi, Ntosh Gazi, Red Button, Emtee, Maraza, Zola7, Rhyma and Eindo.
Born in Taung, North West, Cruz Afrika has also earned a Black Entertainment Award (BEA) for his music.
