JOHANNESBURG, 4 AUGUST: Renowned Producer and DJ Airburn
Sounds is set to release his long-awaited single CRUSH YAM with singer
Mawhoo featuring Optimist Music SA and BoontleRSA.
The song is set to be released on Friday 12 September 2025.
CRUSH YAM is a soothing and melodic sound that represents longing.
It is a heartfelt expression wrapped in rhythm and melody.
CRUSH YAM plays on the innocence of fancying someone and never
seeing it through, the permanent longing, but the fear of
disappointment.
The lyrics tell a story of romance,affection, and the desire to be loved
with a gentle and emotive beat.
The rhythmic Amapiano beat is playful, but like a heartbeat trembling
yet allows one to dance. Each music note is like poetry combined with
dance. It is a mellow yet upbeat Amapiano song that infuses a soothing
guitar.
Mawhoos' feminine vocals create a balance. Both the male and female
vocalists explore their vulnerability and shyness in their approach of
being in love.
Airburn Sounds says CRUSH YAM is a lighthearted song. It feels like a
page from a secret diary, one kept their secrets, it's tender and
vulnerable.
“It is a light-hearted, romantic song. It’s almost very poetic Amapiano.
But also a universal sound for both young and old.”
BoontleRSA describes the song as fun, playful, and melodic.
“Everyone can relate to the song. Everyone has been in love or had a
crush they fear talking to.”
Mawhoo says the song is different from anything she has done.
“It’s innocent, explores vulnerability, and is just a fun song.”
Optimist Music ZA said making the song came naturally and easily.
“We have all had crushes, and the making of the song was organic,
natural, and unforced. This is why the light airiness of the song speaks to
everyone.”
QUESTION AND ANSWERS
1. How did the collaboration with these three artists come about?
I had always wanted to work with Mawhoo. Mawhoo hosted a music
camp, orking towards her album. I had set up my studio at the camp as
one of the head producers. We made a lot of songs. But Crush Yam
stood out. BoontleRSA first came up with the melody for the hook.
Mawhoo loved it and jumped on it. Optimist then came in at the end of
the song.
The music was initially meant to be on Mawhoo’s album, but it didn’t
make it due to technical issues. However, it worked well for everyone
because we took the time to work on it. We re-recorded her verse and
added some guitar.
2. When and how long did it take to work on the music?
I worked on the beat. The song took a few hours to put together. But we
kept it and went back to make some adjustments. You know, as an artist,
a song is never complete – there will always be something you feel you
could have done better.
3. What was the inspiration behind the song Crush Yam?
It’s a really mellow, chilled Amapiano love song that everyone can relate
to – all ages, all races. Not complicated. It’s a simple song, fun and great
for the coming summer.
4. What are you currently working on?
I am already finishing up my next release which will be a single coming
out end of the month featuring Zuma, Azi and S’Villa. Will announce
everything soon. Then, after that, I will be releasing my EP – star-
studded. Big names, great songs, and just good music. Theres a lot on
the pipeline.
5. Describe your sound?
My sound is Soulful, Afro-soul mixed with Amapiano. Crush Yam has an
Afro Soul guitar, so it makes the Amapiano sound very different to what
people are used to. I am very versatile. I started out making Afrobeats
and Hip-Hop. Now, I’m exploring Amapiano infused with Kwaito – that
wave is coming in hard. I produced something amazing for Stilo
Magolide with the same sound. But my style cant really be boxed
ABOUT AIRBURN SOUNDS BIOGRAPHY
AirBurn Sound, real name Thabo Mahundla is a self-taught music
producer and DJ. Born in Joburg Alexandra and raised in Thembisa, with
roots in Limpopo. From a young age, he demonstrated his love for music
and won several DJ competitions as a teenager.
A music marvel, he has produced for artists such as Zanda Zakuza, Mr
Brown, Stilo Magolide, Makhadzi, Temwah, Boity Thulo, Rethabile
Khumalo, Nokwazi and many more.
His music has made it to international shores and he also got an
opportunity to work with USA/Senegalese artist Akon.
He produced the latest release by Jamaican artist Ka$e.
Airburn Sounds latest unreleased work includes features with Sir Trill,
LeemCrazy, Mulest Vankay, Naledi, CZwe, Kabza De Small, Zuma,
Nation365, Naledi Aphiwe, Veyane, OHP Sage, Soulful G, Semi Langa,
and many more.
His hard work and love for an authentic African sound which infuses
Tech, Amapiano, Soul, Dance, Afro and Afrobeats has earned him a place
on the international stage.
Social Media:
Airburn_Sounds