In an exclusive interview with BBC’s This Is Africa, Zambian music sensation Yo Maps shared insights into his rise to fame, personal challenges, and the driving forces behind his music.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Recognition
Yo Maps, born in Zambia, introduced himself to the This Is Africa audience, expressing his gratitude for the recognition he’s gained. “It’s amazing, you know, looking at where I’m coming from a small town to where I am right now. It’s very encouraging,” he reflected. “If you keep working hard, you can achieve anything.”
He also shared a personal anecdote about his early struggles with his mother’s disapproval of his music career. “I used to have little challenges with my mom, because she didn’t want me to do music,” he explained. “But there was something in me. I had that passion for music, so I didn’t give up.”
Yo Maps’ journey began in the church, where his father, a deacon, supported his desire to pursue music on the condition that he sing gospel. However, a turning point came when he produced a secular song that quickly went viral. “I remember my mom saying, ‘This voice sounds like our son. What’s going on?’” he laughed. Despite the initial tension, he persisted and eventually found success.
The Song That Marked His Arrival
When DJ Edu asked about the song that made Yo Maps feel like he had truly “arrived,” he pointed to Season Yanga from 2019. “That song is like a blessing to me,” he said. “It went viral, and people were talking about it, dancing to it. It was one of the greatest bangers I’ve ever produced.”
Music That Speaks to the People
Yo Maps explained that his music resonates with fans because it reflects real-life experiences. “I talk about reality, what people are going through—bad situations, good situations,” he shared. “I also talk about God, love yourself, and perseverance. I believe in working hard; there’s no other medicine for success.”
Though he acknowledged that his music sometimes challenges societal norms, Yo Maps admitted, “I think I am a controversial person.” His honest approach to sensitive topics is part of what makes him stand out.
Vulnerable and Personal Songs
Yo Maps also opened up about how his own life experiences shape his music. “There’s a song called Bana Bandi and another one called Jealous,” he explained. “For me, those songs were about telling people what I’ve been through as Yo Maps.”
The Story Behind “My Hero”
Discussing his music video for My Hero, Yo Maps explained the deeper meaning behind the song. “The video shows my mother suffering while our relatives ignored her,” he said. “After she passed, I saw people who hadn’t been there for her suddenly coming around.” He believes the song sends a message about the importance of supporting people while they’re still alive.
DJ Edu then asked about the album cover, which features an image of a child by a grave. Yo Maps revealed, “The child has lost their mother, and they have no one else. They go to the graveyard to cry because that’s where they feel closest to her.”
Music, Empathy, and Connection
Yo Maps also discussed the challenges he faced on his way to success, particularly the financial struggles of breaking into the industry. “You can’t just take your music to a radio station and expect them to play it for free. You have to pay,” he said. “Back home, my mom didn’t support my music. She wanted me to go to school, so it was tough. But there was something in me that kept me going.”
When asked about unity in the Zambian music industry, Yo Maps was candid. “We’re not united as Zambian artists,” he explained. “There’s no collaboration to create policies that support local musicians. When international artists come to Zambia, the money they’re paid is different from what local artists receive, and it affects us.” Despite these challenges, Yo Maps remains hopeful. “One day, hopefully, things will change,” he said.
Ambition Beyond Zambia
Though he’s already a household name in Zambia, Yo Maps is aiming higher. “I’ve not filled up any stadium outside Zambia yet,” he said. “That’s what I’m working on now, hopefully.”
He also shared his excitement about working with American R&B star Omarion on the hit song Superman. “When Omarion’s management reached out to us, I was more than happy,” he said. “It was a dream come true.”
Taking Zambian Music to the World
Yo Maps is confident that his unique sound can make it internationally without losing its authenticity. “Music is universal,” he stated. “You don’t need to sound like Chris Brown or Drake. You can take the Nyanja-Bemba type of music to the world.”
In the end, Yo Maps remains grounded and passionate about his craft, showing a deep commitment to sharing his journey and inspiring others to follow their dreams, no matter the challenges.
DJ Edu ended the interview by expressing his admiration for Yo Maps’ resilience and success, leaving fans eager for what’s next from the Zambian star.