Q&A with South African songwriter and singer Young Stunna

PUMA South Africa: When did you first feel the drive to make music?

Young Stunna: I like expressing, and like many people my singing started in church. We would hold Sunday services in my home in Benoni, and people would come from as far as Soweto to attend.

READ MORE: Young Stunna and Zee Nxumalo join PUMA Fam at Speedcat Jozi

When did you realise you could do it for a career?

I was about 15 or 16. Me and my brother Dumela, we went to primary school together, started performing Hip Hop songs as the Mighty Kings. That was my first time as a performer.

Lots of young and old people dream of a career in music, so who has guided you, who has got your back and opened doors in the industry?

I got introduced to a whole family in the industry, who support me with songwriting and producing including Mdu aka TRP, Nkulee 501, Skroef 28, and Kabza De Small. I learnt to write songs with these four or five producers working with me on a single song. It is all about collaboration. My photographer Nyiko (@opticalillusion.jpeg) is also always by my side capturing content for my social media channels.

What do you enjoy about the collab process?

We have become a family in the studio. So, I was able to finish my album in three months, working with no pressure.

What was magical about your live gig at Carnival City on 9 November?

It was a dream to perform at Carnival City. I was also the event organiser so, I had to stress about ticket sales, everything. But I have a lot of people who support me, and they all came through for me. We rehearsed for two weeks and on the day, it was electrifying. Breathtaking. It was also closing a chapter on my first album, saying goodbye to it as I was about to introduce a new sound.

Will you ever organise an event like that again?

Yes, because now I know I can organise a live concert, I will do one for my second album.

What attracted you to work with PUMA?

It all started with Uncle Riky (Rick) in about 2021. We walked into a PUMA store, and he said lock the doors and he bought up the shop! I became an instant PUMA fan and have rocked the look.

Now you are an official brand ambassador and star in PUMA’s latest Speedcat campaign?

It was a dream to work with PUMA. The brand is for everyone, and I fell in love with all the creative collabs.

Your advice to youngsters dreaming of a career in the music industry?

Music can change your life for the better. Stay prayed up. I come from a family that worships. Know that praying and sitting doesn’t work. You need to pray and do the work! Whatever you sell on the corner, needs to help your dream.

What would you tell your 10-year-old self?

Things take their time. Don’t give up on the dreams. If you love something, it will give you lots of love back.

A message for your fans as another year comes to an end?

Thank you for your constant love; you always guard my back. I have a lot of stories to tell and 2025 is going to be a great year.