Halo Yagami is carving a niche for himself as an innovative artist by weaving the essence of confidence, self-love, and authenticity into his work.
Image: Supplied
Durban-born and Johannesburg-based Halo Yagami (real name Monde Ngcobo) is making his mark with the release of his latest single, "Phresha”.
At just 29, Yagami is carving a niche for himself as an innovative artist by weaving the essence of confidence, self-love, and authenticity into his work.
With a burgeoning presence resonating across streaming platforms, his new single has already garnered over 1 million streams on Apple Music.
Yagami's sound is a unique tapestry of R&B, maskandi, and kwaito, creating an experimental genre that is both familiar and refreshingly new.
Inspired by the varying musical landscapes around him, he also infuses elements of Afro-pop and electro-soul into his songs.
Reflecting on the influences that shaped his artistry, Yagami cites artists such as Sjava, Jhené Aiko, and Erykah Badu, whose styles have been woven into the emotional fabric of his music.
Halo Yagami is carving a niche for himself as an innovative artist by weaving the essence of confidence, self-love, and authenticity into his work.
Image: Supplied
“I chose these records because I genuinely connect with every single song, old and new,” Yagami mentions when discussing his musical inspirations.
The nostalgic connection to music runs deep in his family, especially through his mother's cherished cassette collection and his father's passion for playing the saxophone.
It was during his teenage years that he discovered his vocal capabilities, singing along to the radio and recognising his talent.
Emphasising his versatility, Yagami not only performs but also produces music for himself and other artists.
“Sometimes it’s hard for me to take professional or artistic advice from someone who hasn’t run the miles in my field,” he asserts, showcasing his commitment to the craft.
This dedication is evident in moments of triumph, like surpassing a million streams independently, which he openly celebrates as a major milestone in his career.
His success was further strengthened when he participated in Apple Music's “Up Next” campaign in 2022, showcasing his first EP, "My Feel Good Live Session”.
"Phresha" stands as an anthem of resilience and individuality, creatively spelling "pressure" to signify the importance of standing out in every aspect, from creativity to fashion.
The track's composition mirrors his internal journey, where emotion drives the instrumental foundation, guiding him through themes of despair, love, and happiness.
“Melody is king to me; it arrives first, and then everything else follows,” he reflects on his songwriting process.
Halo Yagami is carving a niche for himself as an innovative artist by weaving the essence of confidence, self-love, and authenticity into his work.
Image: Supplied
Yagami's aspirations for “Phresha” are equally ambitious.
“I hope my fans get closer to love, whether it’s platonic or romantic,” Yagami offers, firmly believing that love is a transcendent force that binds us all.
He envisions his music as a conduit for emotional healing and expression, inspired not only by his influences but also by the profound connection art has with spirituality.
With plans to release new music and a fresh EP in May, alongside public and private shows throughout the year, Yagami’s trajectory is firmly set to redefine urban music in South Africa and beyond.
The promise of more music, merchandise, and short films points towards a future brimming with creativity and artistic evolution.
∎ "Phresha" is now available across all streaming platforms.