KARIEGA – In a world where musical talent often emerges from major metropolitan centres, one producer from Kariega is proving that exceptional artistry knows no geographical boundaries.
Anda Macuba, also known as TheAudioAnda, whose musical journey began at the tender age of 12, recently claimed victory in Soul Candi’s prestigious Mix on the Move: Next Gen 2025 competition, marking a significant milestone in a career built on passion, persistence, and unwavering dedication to the craft.
The announcement, which sent waves of excitement through the town’s community, represents more than just a competition win; it’s the culmination of years of artistic development, personal growth, and a deep-rooted connection to music that traces back to childhood influences and family traditions.
From DJ-ing at high school parties to formal music technology studies, from battling self-doubt to conquering national stages, this is the story of an artist whose success serves as both inspiration and testament to the untapped creative potential that exists in South Africa’s smaller towns.
Speaking to UD Express, Macuba said, “Firstly, I come from a family that appreciates art, and has invested in it throughout my upbringing. From my dad being a founding member of a jazz club and loving literature, to being introduced to different genres when music was played around the house. I believe that really rubbed off on me.”
He added, “My musical journey began at a very young age. I was probably 12 years old when I started investing my time and efforts in understanding the craft, and eventually creating my own music. From DJ-ing at parties in my high school years, to releasing my own creations – I finally made a decision to formally study music technology in 2018.”
Sharing his experience of taking on the competition, he said that entering national competitions has helped him get over his personal feelings of self-doubt and whether his art is good enough.
“It has also given me a lot of reassurance and courage. Competitions can be a bit daunting and frustrating, because in all honesty, no one really wants to lose. However, the process helps you develop tough skin.”
Macuba added that, like the Remy Martin competition — another competition he entered previously — his preparation and process are somewhat identical.
“I take a few days to fully focus on the task at hand whilst taking regular breaks just so I don’t get too lost in what I’m creating. These breaks also help in gathering inspiration from other things outside of the creative process.”
Macuba had always wanted to pursue music.
He shared that he has always been creatively inclined, so it only made sense to him that he should be in the creative space — whatever role that was.
Coming from a small town like Kariega has its drawbacks, especially in the arts sector. But having the privilege of visiting family in major cities really exposed me to a lot of possibilities.
He added that winning this competition felt a bit long overdue considering the number of years he has put in to perfect his craft.
“It has also made me appreciate the journey even more. I would simply call it divine timing. After all the excitement and congratulatory messages, one question remained at the back of my mind: ‘What’s next?’ I feel like there’s so much more to be done, because this is just the beginning, in my eyes.”
He said that he also wants to urge creatives to invest more effort into their art and for people in positions of influence and power to invest more resources into the creative space.
“Kariega has so much to offer to the world,” he concluded.
