Pop sensation Jimmy Nevis reckons that the honesty and openness of his music have cemented his prime position in the notoriously turbulent music industry over the years.
“I write from my soul, I write about my community, I write about things that I know - things that are relatable,” he told The Star.
The Cape Town-born musician has been topping the charts since the release of his first single and album back in 2012.
At just 24, he has also worked with some of the best in the game, and continues to reach new heights in his career.
Now, the singer-songwriter and producer plans to set a new tone with his new single Don’t Wanna Fight, which was released last month. His mantra of injecting truth into his music prevails in the release, as Nevis said was the theme of the song.
“The inspiration behind the song is honesty. The song is about acknowledging that even though I’m part of a very fake industry I’m going to try and stay as real as possible,” he said.
He added that Don’t Wanna Fight was about staying real. “The song is about not wanting to fight between being different versions of yourself, but just being one honest person.”
Although Nevis is now a household name on the pop scene, his musical journey began as a child.
“I grew up in church, so I would sing in the worship band and also take part in community events.”
He got his big break aged 19 when he released his first single, Elephant Shoes.
Nevis said he worked hard to get his music to the public.
“I wrote and recorded the song in two weeks, and personally dropped it off at different radio stations.”
Five years later, he is still a force to be reckoned with, and has produced some of the best local pop music.
This genre of music is closest to his heart and what he is most passionate about.
“Pop music is the reason I sing. I love making music for everybody. I love music that is trendy, music that is constantly evolving.
“I’m also a big fan of the pop industry,” he said.
Over the course of what he has described as an incredible journey, he has also worked with some of the best local artists.
They include Kwesta, Mi Casa, Sketchy Bongo, and Pascal & Pearce, and he still hopes to collaborate with rapper AKA, singing sensation Lira and US hip-hop sensation
Jay Z.
“At the end of the day, it’s about who I connect with creatively.”
He said now is the time for local artists to shine in their own right.
“Now more than ever, we are able to compete commercially without compromising our sound or culture.
“Look at Black Coffee and some of the artists in Nigeria.
“I’m so proud. We’re in a good space.”
As for his plans for the future, Nevis said he hoped to win a Grammy award and launch a limited clothing line. He will also be a co-coach on The Voice SA.