Anthony Hamilton, the multi-award-winning R&B sensation, has once again expressed his profound connection with South Africa, often referring to it as his “second home.” This sentiment was echoed during his recent press conference at Primedia’s 702 in Johannesburg. As he prepares for his ‘Up Close and Personal’ show over the Heritage Day weekend, Hamilton’s bond with Mzansi becomes even more evident.
Hamilton’s journey to stardom wasn’t a straightforward one. Despite facing numerous professional setbacks, his unwavering belief in his purpose and destiny in the music industry kept him going. Reflecting on his early days, Hamilton mentioned, “I had to be seasoned. Now that I’m seasoned, the music tastes better, feels better, and sounds better. Life is what shapes you, and I had to go through a little bit of life to make it feel different.” It’s this seasoning, this life experience, that has enriched his artistry, making his music resonate with fans worldwide.
His album, “Comin’ from Where I’m From,” released two decades ago, was a pivotal point in his career. While it technically stands as his second album, it functioned as his commercial debut, propelling him to the forefront of the R&B scene in the 2000s. The album garnered him numerous award nominations and gave fans timeless hits like the title track and the platinum-certified “Charlene.”
South African fans are in for a treat as Hamilton is set to perform at the SunBet Arena in Tshwane. This performance is particularly special as it marks the 20th anniversary of “Comin’ from Where I’m From.” Hamilton’s choice to commemorate this milestone in South Africa speaks volumes about his affinity for the nation.
Hamilton’s versatility as an artist is commendable. While many know him for his soulful R&B tracks, he has dabbled in various genres, from hip-hop and country to rock and blues. He emphasized the importance of not being boxed into one genre, stating, “I’ve done hip-hop, country, rock, blues. [You have to] create different boxes so they don’t keep you in one.”
As fans gear up for his performance, they are encouraged to showcase their heritage through their outfits, celebrating Heritage Day weekend in style. In the meantime, fans can enjoy Hamilton’s latest single, “Alone A Lot,” a collaboration with Louis York.
