South African Amapiano vocalist Thatohatsi recently opened up about the support she received from Sleazy during the early stages of her career, sharing a heartfelt message that detailed how the producer stood by her before her rise in the music industry.
Thatohatsi has become one of the fastest-rising voices in Amapiano through collaborations with some of the genre’s biggest names, including Kelvin Momo, Kabza De Small, ShaunMusiQ and Mellow & Sleazy. Known for her emotional delivery and soulful vocals, the singer has continued to establish herself as one of the notable new-generation artists in the genre.
In an emotional tribute, Thatohatsi described Sleazy as one of the first people to support her when she was still uncertain about her own talent. “This guy is one of the first guys to believe in me when I never even believed in myself,” she wrote.
The vocalist explained that Sleazy constantly encouraged her during studio sessions, especially during moments when she lacked confidence in her music. Reflecting on their early recording sessions, she shared that he continued motivating her even when she felt her verses were not good enough. “He was the first guy to cheer me up after recording a verse that wasn’t even that dope,” she said.
According to Thatohatsi, Sleazy repeatedly reassured her about her abilities until she eventually realised he genuinely believed in her talent. “He reminded me how good I am and how things would really work out one day almost every day,” she added.
She also recalled how dedicated he was to helping her grow as an artist. “He actually meant it when he called almost everyday gore ke tle studio because he knew how happy I was when I arrived there and get to record,” she wrote.
Beyond music, Thatohatsi detailed how Sleazy assisted her financially during difficult times. She revealed that he would send her money for transport to studio sessions and sometimes send extra cash so she could help out at home. “This guy here would literally send cash for I to come to studio,” she shared.
The singer also reflected on personal moments that strengthened their bond. She recalled that Sleazy was the first person to take her to Sandton and expose her to experiences she had never seen before. “Ke bone Di bilide le ma yagaya for the first time in my whole entire life, is this guy here,” she wrote.
Although the two artists no longer communicate as often as they once did, Thatohatsi said his role in her journey remains significant. “You will forever remain in my heart and I would never trade you for anything,” she concluded.
Today, Thatohatsi continues to rise as one of Amapiano’s standout vocalists, while Sleazy remains part of the successful production duo Mellow & Sleazy, whose influence on the genre continues to grow.
