GQ

AUGUST 2022 R70 ( INCL VAT ) F E AT URIN G Una Rams OTHER COUNTRIES R52.17 Msaki Ladipoe Zoe Modiga The World of Birds INVESTIGATION The story of music during apartheid The gospel according to Adekunle Gold FBTUEHLTOEUTNROEGS

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CONTENTS PHOTOGRAPHY BY NIQUITA BENTO SUN-EL MUSICIAN WEARS Jacket and jeans both Louis Vuitton AUGUST 2022 DEPARTMENTS | 06 Letter from the Editor-in-Chief / FEATURES | 72 Sun-El Musician: accidental DJ, reluctant celebrity and award-winning sound designer 80 Five multi-genre musicians share their highlights, goals and dream collabs / 86 The freedom songs of South Africa’s storied past ESSENTIALS | 08 This month’s Threads: Advice, Man About Town, Culture and Curated | 16 Reasons we love publicity powerhouse Melanie Ramjee | 18 The skincare regime for you. Plus, time to get yourself a dope wig (minus the shame) | 22 The real-life diet of chef Kwame Onwuachi | 28 Nigerian superstar Adekunle Gold releases his best work yet / GEAR | 37 BMW iX | 40 Nissan Navara / SPORT 42 The supplement debate: do they really benefit your training? | 44 A CrossFit pro chats fasted workouts and representation / MUSIC | 47 How to navigate the music industry / ST YLE | 56 Have fun with colour, print, texture, branding and embellishment | 66 Your winter fix of cosy knits | 94 Directory 02 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022

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CONTENTS ADEKUNLE GOLD WEARS Shirt Bottega Veneta; jacket, rings and chains all his own ON THE COVERS ON THE COVERS: SUN-EL MUSICIAN Photographed by Niquita Bento. ADEKUNLE GOLD Photographed by Simon Thiselton at Dais Agency. All prices quoted in this issue are approximate and subject to change. 04 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022

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ED’S LETTER Let the y I ’ M N OT E A S I LY T R I G G E R E D, Memories like these and more PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL OLIVER LOVE music are why we chose to dedicate but one thing that can pull this issue to music – to celebrate pl that trigger and release all my people at its forefront, such as memories, beautiful and sad, is our two cover stars. 06 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022 music. For me, two songs top the list, both by the late, great Oliver Nigerian singer-songwriter Mtukudzi, namely, ‘Neria’ and Adekunle Gold and South ‘Mutserendende’. African music producer and DJ Sun-El Musician are megastars The story behind ‘Neria’ is locally and are taking the bittersweet. I first heard the African sound globally. We also song when I went to the cinema talk about the business of music: with my mom to see the movie the ins and outs, the good and in which it appears. The story the bad and more from page 49, tells of a woman whose husband a section I highly recommend has just passed away and has to you read and share with people deal with her in-laws trying to you know who want to enter the take away the assets she and her music industry or are already late husband accumulated. My involved in it. mom lost her husband not long before the movie was released, Music also played a crucial and I recall her being emotional role during the fight against throughout the film, especially apartheid. Our investigation when that song was played. on page 86 delves into the soundtracks behind our long At nine years old, I couldn’t flight to freedom. fully understand my mom’s emotions, but as I grew up Speaking of soundtracks, and understood the reality here’s the rest of my top life of what she’d dealt with, I got playlist. I hope it inspires you it. It must’ve been torture for to list your life tunes – you may her to watch the movie and also find one or two to add from hear the song. Each time I the ones below: hear that track, it transports me to that moment, and even į ‘Cherry Oh Baby’ – UB40 though it’s sad, it reminds me į ‘A Cry, A Smile, a Dance’ of what a bad-ass my mom is because she overcame that, and – Judith Sephuma much more. į ‘7 Seconds’ – Youssou N’Dour į ‘Stimela Sasezola’ ‘Mutserendende’ has a happier memory – me and my maternal – Mbongeni Ngema grandmother jamming in my į ‘Handina Munyama’ grandfather’s vintage 1965 Datsun Silvia 1600 Coupe. She was so – Thomas Mapfumo & pleased as she moved up and The Blacks Unlimited down in the passenger seat. į ‘Alabaster Box’ – CeCe Winans I sat in the driver’s seat while we į ‘The Soul Cafe’ – Kaylow  waited for Grandpa to return. į ‘I’m Gonna be Ready’ Her skin was flawless, her eyes – Yolanda Adams glowing – pure joy! The song į ‘All Over’ – Tiwa Savage speaks about life being a breeze į ‘Can we Talk’ – Tevin Campbell and beautiful, and that moment į ‘Not Afraid’ – Eminem was just that. Every time I hear it, į ‘Uyandithanda’ – Zonke everything in me lights up. į ‘Just Us’ – The Weather Girls į ‘Goodness of God’ į – CeCe Winans į ‘Wandirasa’ – Chiwoniso Maraire į ‘The Dance’ – Dave Koz Till next time! M O L I F E  EDITOR-IN-CHIEF



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THREADS

ESSENTIALS | THREADS An exercise in eccentricity and the TIP ONE fine art of being memorable WORK WITH WHAT YOU’VE GOT Words and illustration by Jason Alexander Basson Accentuate your assets, IMAGINE IF ANDY WARHOL WAS that work alone will only get you so far. To especially the ones you complete the package, you’ll need to become consider defective or A MUSCLE MARY WITH A BUZZ a brand by taking ownership of and carefully embarrassing. If you cultivating a head-to-toe style that remains were bullied or teased for CUT, Salvador Dalí didn’t have consistent (or, at least, on-brand) throughout being fat, take back your a moustache, Marilyn Monroe your career, unique enough that people power and turn your was a brunette, or Colonel Sanders will remember you for it. And when we say “fatness” into your wore jeans and a tee? Would they “style”, we don’t mean great personal style greatest strength and be as noteworthy today? Or, more – none of that looks-good-blends-in sort style signifier. To quote precisely, would they control as of stuff. Party Monster, ‘If you much real estate in the memory have a hunchback, just banks of popular culture, past Iconic style is rooted in eccentricity. throw a little glitter on it, and present? History is littered with examples of this. It’s honey, and go dancing.’ pretty straightforward and can sometimes MAYBE YES, MAYBE NO. be as simple as an oversized pair of glasses TIP TWO (Iris Apfel), a crazy shock of hair (Andy CREATE YOUR I’m not diminishing the work Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat) or SIGNATURE or contributions of these icons a peculiar moustache (John Waters, Hitler, but rather suggesting that there’s Tom Selleck). This ties in with my a connection between style previous point. Most and substance – a space where But what about style chameleons people create their style an individual’s appearance is Madonna and Lady Gaga, who reinvent signifier as a distraction canonised to the extent that it their style for each new album they release? from physical insecurity. becomes inseparable from or Yes, that’s a higher-grade conversation, but, Were you teased for sometimes entirely overshadows essentially, being a chameleon is their brand, having no hair? Wear the their work. and their style exists to shock. Think Catholic most OTT wig you can subversion, meat dresses and so on. find or cover your head WE CALL THIS ‘BRAND’. in tattoos. You don’t need to shock, but something Can you name ten films Marilyn about your style should be shocking, out of TIP THREE Monroe was in or describe her the ordinary, and rule-breaking. Otherwise, ECCENTRICITY ideological or political leanings? how will people notice you? IS IMPORTANT And can you explain the E=mc2 equation in great detail or describe ‘Your style should be Being a style eccentric the photoelectric effect? Perhaps out of the ordinary doesn’t mean you’re you only know what Albert and rule-breaking. a clown or that you look Einstein’s hair looked like and that Otherwise, how will ridiculous. It’s about he’s the guy behind the theory of people notice you?’ being extraordinary and general relativity? pushing your style beyond what people The lesson here is if part of your know or are comfortable plan is to become an icon and leave with, to create an indelible mark on culture and something marvellous history, you may want to consider and memorable. You have to be daring. TIP FOUR UNIFORM Back up your style signifier with a uniform. That doesn’t mean wearing the same thing every day but dressing consistently in clothes that complement it. TIP FIVE REPETITION Drill the message daily until people know who you are. AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 11

ESSENTIALS | THREADS IBRAHIM KAMARA The late Virgil Abloh left some pretty massive shoes to fill as the world has been waiting and watching with bated breath to see how Ibrahim Kamara fares in the role of Image and Art Director for Off-White L ET ’S S TART BY SAYING him his first editorial styling job. WORDS: JASON ALEXANDER BASSON; PHOTOGRAPHY; GALLO/GETTY IMAGES Years later, that steamrolled into HOW MUCH WE LOVE him taking on the role of editor- at-large for i-D, followed by IBR AHIM K AMAR A, not only editor-in-chief at Dazed. To date, because he’s a diasporic African he’s amassed an impressive list showing the world how great this of high-end collabs, including continent and its people are, but luxury powerhouses such as also his resume is nothing short Burberry and Louis Vuitton. of impressive. In terms of Off-White, he’s Kamara was born in Sierra certainly not a random choice Leone during a war, and he and for the brand. Abloh and Kamara his family fled to The Gambia and shared a solid professional and lived there until he was 11. They personal relationship that began then moved to London, where on Instagram and flourished over he’d eventually study medicine, the years, a kinship the brand only to change lanes into fashion. noted. Abloh trusted, worked well with and respected Kamara He worked as a fashion immensely for his creative point journalist and stylist in London. of view. In 2016, he visited South Africa and worked with photographer Kamara’s story and body of Kristin-Lee Moolman (who work can only mean great things shot GQ Style’s first cover). The for Off-White – and he’s certainly two created a Soweto-based, a much-needed voice in fashion. breathtaking photographic series In a world that often overlooks its titled ‘2026’, featuring street- third voice, he’ll undoubtedly cast models dressed in upcycled provide a  unique perspective on clothing. The series gained a lot of everything from inclusivity to attention internationally. representation, upcycling and what the phrases “street style” or After working on his follow-up “luxury” even mean. series ‘Utopian Voices’, Kamara met then creative director for Dazed Robbie Spencer, who gave 12 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022

ESSENTIALS | THREADS Is size inclusivity only for women? And why are we even treating plus- size as a peripheral category? WORDS:JASON ALEXANDER BASSON; PHOTOGRAPHY: THE WORLD HAS JUMPED ON THE INCLUSIVITY BANDWAGON TO ensure inclusivity, why has it taken them SUP P L IED BY SAVAG E X FE N T Y everybody feels represented. But when it comes to fashion, it seems to be so long, and why is it still such primarily happening in womenswear, and menswear brands often exclude a struggle to include plus-size men? plus-sizing when they mention inclusivity. The reality is that if you have Globally, Savage x Fenty has been a pioneer in this space, offering to call it out, then you aren’t doing a body-positive viewpoint for men that’s empowering, attractive and fully the work. If you have to treat plus inclusive without any gimmicks. Yet, they’re one of very few brands doing as a separate category, it isn’t really this. Local brands have celebrated everything from albinism to vitiligo as inclusive. Inclusivity means offering a callout to inclusivity in men’s fashion – but that’s a marketing gimmick sizing for everyone and in every that only speaks to semi-inclusive casting. Only recently, local e-commerce style of clothing. Well-intended as platform Superbalist became the first to include a plus-size category for men it may be, the plus-size category is on its website. So, if the world (and brands) are honestly working towards an archaic callout that’s very much rooted in body fascism No plus-size individual wants to be othered, forced to shop in a separate corner of shame. Why wouldn’t individuals want to access the same types of fashionable clothing as everybody else? Naming conventions don’t help either. Whether you call it curvy, plus- size or whatever politically correct term you think works for today’s consumer, it’s still problematic My question to retailers is this: if they include diverse faces in their campaigns (vitiligo, albinism, etc.), will they create a separate section for those individuals to shop? No! Of course not because that’d be offensive. So, why the inherent assumption that it’s okay to do that for fuller-figured individuals? You may argue that it’s to improve the user journey through quick access, but you’re wrong. Just be better by being inclusive. It’s not that hard! ‘No plus-size individual wants to be othered, forced to shop in a separate corner of shame’ AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 13

ESSENTIALS | THREADS UNI FORM BY LUKE RADLOFF I love a brand whose goal is to transcend outdated notions of what Africa offers and push its design economy to match any major fashion capital. What it does very well are modular, trans-seasonal pieces that emphasise quality and garment development. I’m particularly obsessed with UNI FORM’s outwear and pant offering. And the quality of its fabrication is so good you feel like you’re buying international fashion at a local price point. It elevates classics filtered through the lens of a new South Africa. You’re welcome! CURATED GQ Fashion Director Jason Alexander Basson’s best fits and favourite finds of the month CONVERSE X STÜSSY As a ’90s child who attended many a rave, Mother and a fitted Adidas tee. Among those holy grail or ESP years before I was of legal age, you can brands were Converse and Stüssy, the latter of never overstate the value of brands in that space. which isn’t nearly as available as it was then. But Certainly not for somebody trying to look like he this exciting collab will change that. This One Star belonged in that era when he (clearly) didn’t, in black hemp gives us that ’90s west coast look, wearing standard issues such as the Kangol bucket SoCal style – which couldn’t be more Stüssy hat, three-striped Blackjack pants, Buffalo boots if it tried. 14 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022

ESSENTIALS | THREADS DIESEL X LELO A designer vibrating his-and-hers cock ring, built for her pleasure – but made for fashion. BRANDALISM BY MIKE SHARMAN ‘Life is short. Play naked!’ is some of the sage advice you’ll encounter in award-winning brand savant Mike Sharman’s latest offering Brandalsim (R259, loot.co.za). In this follow-up to his best-seller, The Best Dick, Sharman discusses the teething phases of brand building. Everything from the future of PR and influence to when, how and why to launch. He emphasises manifesto over purpose and how to challenge your public- facing persona. It’s a nugget of gold for anybody with a pulse in 2022. PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED A-E-I-O-U about a student newsroom at the time of a statue controversy. He also made the Top 10 in This incredible debut film series by South Netflix’s Realness Project for his screenplay, African director Francesco Nassimbeni won You Me They Them. A-E-I-O-U isn’t only his first the prestigious Jury Award for Best film, but it marks his debut as a director for Experimental Short at the Cannes Short Film brands. The series is a visual expression of ‘The Festival. Nassimbeni has fast made a name for Many Faces of Depression’, a next-normal himself with various projects, including a novella jewellery collection designed by Gisèle Human for young adults, The Skin I Live In, which has of South African accessories brand Waif, which been translated into six South African sensitively explores and highlights mental languages, and his radio drama The Paper, health issues arising from Covid-19 to offer ways to heal. (Watch the series on gq.co.za) AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 15

For almost two decades, PA S SIONATE ABOUT Melanie Ramjee has worked PEOPL E, developing new talent to earn her title as one of and taking careers (including her the most acclaimed publicists own) to new heights, Melanie Ramjee has worked with some of the in South Africa biggest names in the game. As the managing director of boutique PR PUBLICIT Y agency Tutone Communications, she’s represented numerous local Words by Shannon Manuel Photography by Aart Verrips and international brands, from clothing and music festivals to special sporting events. And, as she tells GQ, she’s loved every minute. GQ: What were your aspirations when you first entered this industry? Do you feel you’ve achieved what you intended? Melanie Ramjee: I was young, eager and wet behind the ears, but ready to play a part in the entertainment industry. I first entered the industry by running the door at a club while throwing down some rap verses in hip-hop cyphers. Later, I started an entertainment company with my then-boyfriend. That grew into a record label, and the rest is history. Tutone Communications came years later. I registered my agency back in 2009, just as the 2010 FIFA World Cup mania was starting. I quit my cool corporate job and, after a three-month sabbatical, borrowed a laptop and R500 to register the company. At Tutone Communications, we offer strategic PR solutions for corporate entertainment and other lifestyle brands. We currently represent artists including TxC, Uncle Waffles, Taylor Jaye (Namibian), and Pheelz (Nigerian). Other brands we work with include Cotton Fest, YFM, Trace Urban, Johannesburg Film

ESSENTIALS | WOMAN WE LOVE Festival, Rubicon (clothing), and the MR: I’m old school, so I come Because we have instantaneous and are trying to do their Special Olympics. from the days of the fax machine. access to media platforms via social own PR? Back then, you had to fax a press media, young artists can do MR: Call relevant newspapers and I’ve definitely achieved what release with a cover letter to one their own ‘PR’. online platforms and find out who I first set out to by making an impact media person at a time. Imagine the does their entertainment stories. in the industry. My aspirations have nightmare! Breaking news was so Before choosing a publicist, the Chat to journalists, befriend them grown a lot since my teens, so I’m much slower. These days, everyone questions you should ask yourself and get their details. Email them still working on new ones daily. can create content, trend online and include: are these artists successful your info and follow up after even film breaking news on their and blowing up? Does the PR a few days. Network at events and GQ: What attracted you cellphones, all instantaneously. We agency represent anyone under the launches to ensure you connect with to PR and entertainment press one button and send a press same genre? Do you know any of the right people who can give as a career? release to 3 000 media participants. those artists they rep so that you can you exposure. MR: Entertainment was always call them for a reference? What are in my blood. Truth be told, PR GQ: What are your tips their rates? Do they believe in you? GQ: How can an artist found me. Back when I started an for creating wealth as Do you feel their vibe and energy? create a well-rounded entertainment company/record a publicist and building GQ: What should artists do if publicity strategy? label in the ’90s, I fell into my PR a successful career? they can’t afford a publicist MR: Call me! role. I was good at writing and MR: Study your craft and know even better at dealing with people. everything about it, never stop Jitahidi My partner did A&R (artists and learning and growing. Live your Maxi Dress repertoire), while I dealt with the craft. Pay your dues (that way, you Angalia AW22 media. That worked for us. learn the ins and out of the industry OPPOSITE and last longer here). Time is money, PAGE GQ: You’re considered so don’t waste it on useless things. Dress Rubicon a blueprint for success within Work never sleeps, so stay focused Myth of your industry. What do you and, most importantly, know your Origin Range think of this, and who has worth and don’t settle for less. influenced you? MR: Wow, a whole blueprint! GQ: Can you tell us about your Maybe one of many, really. work, particularly within the I definitely took the longer way to music industry? get to where I am now. I didn’t study MR: I co-founded a record label PR or business per se, which meant called Eargasm Records back in the it took me a long time to figure some early 2000s. We released hip-hop stuff out. I always encourage young legends of the time, Mizchif and people to take the study route if Spex. We’ve represented amazing they can to fast-track their success. local and international clients and Education is power. brands that have grown with us over the years. We’ve also worked on My influences include industry remarkable concerts and festivals powerhouses such as Lebo that have launched the careers Motswenyane, Marang Setshwaelo of many young talented artists and, of course, my legend herself in the country. Penny Steyn. And women like Basetsana Kumalo and Melanie GQ: Name some of the artists Bala, who paved the way for us. you’ve worked with. MR: Local artists/brands: TxC, GQ: As one of the top women Riky Rick, Sho Madjozi, Kwesta, in the industry with an inside Gigi Lamayne, Stogie T, Ntosh Gazi, view, is PR generally a male- Una Rams and Bonang Matheba. dominated arena? African-based artists: Mohombi, MR: Entering the PR industry back Niniola, DJ OBI, DJ Cuppy in my 20s, I only knew PR as and YCee. a female-dominated industry, so International artists: Kendrick I never felt jaded by those notions. Lamar, Migos, J. Cole, Jill Scott, John All my mentors were women. There Legend, Keri Hilson, Chris Brown, are many male industry leaders Rick Ross, Trey Songz, Mary J Blige in the PR world, but I just keep it and Kim Kardashian. moving – there’s space for everyone. Challenges come and go, so I never GQ: When is the right really focus on them. I simply focus time for an artist to hire a on the belief that everyone has publicist? What should they their season. consider before doing so? MR: I always say, further down GQ: You’ve been in this the line than you might think. business for a long time. How has PR evolved? AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 17

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ESSENTIALS | GROOMING PHOTOGRAPHY GALLO/GETTY IMAGES, SUPPLIED The wig Missile worked with Minnie men need more convincing revolution Dlamini, Bonang Matheba and before they commit to Khanyi Mbau, and more, before wearing a wig because it It’s time to strip he saw a gap in the market for requires a lot of attention? the shame away weaves specifically created PM: Yes, most men opt for chiskop for men. simply because they haven’t been WHETHER YOU’RE exposed to alternatives. I’m seeing BALDING OR TRYING TO Originally from the DRC, more new faces lately requesting my CHANGE YOUR LOOK, Missile sees himself as services. I feel I’m giving men their PAT RI CK M I S S IL E I S T H E a professional wig designer. dignity back. MAN FOR EVERYTHING GQ chatted to him about his mission to help men find GQ: What inspires you? MAL E WE AVE S. Yes, you their self-confidence. PM: Firstly, it breaks my heart read that right – if you want to to see young men experiencing get yourself a dope wig, Missile GQ: Why weaves, wigs and premature balding and losing can plug you. He introduced toupees for men? all hope. Restoring [hair loss] keeps his male weaves three years ago Patrick Missile: As a me going. Balding can bruise and over time, the Pretoria- professional wig designer, I realised a man’s confidence – without that, based businessman has seen I could create something to it’s hard to navigate life. many guys warming up to his accommodate my male customers groundbreaking hair technique. and complete their entire look with GQ: What’s the biggest a new hairstyle, a toupee or hair lesson you’ve learned so far? ‘Balding is something that can replacement. PM: I’ve learned to be comfortable bruise a man’s confidence – with experimenting, specifically and without confidence, it’s GQ: Take us back to when serving men, who can be very hard to navigate life’ the beginning? demanding. I’ve also learned that PM: It all started 12 years ago and appearance means alot to men and became my life’s mission. At the women, which I take seriously. time, the male hair-replacement system wasn’t popular – it still isn’t – GQ: Any exciting plans among African men. Initially, I was on the horizon? looking for practical ways to help PM: I’m planning to diversify my my customers who suffered with offering to accommodate all ethnic hair loss and balding patches. groups, not just Africans. After all, men from all walks of life GQ: Men usually take time to experience balding. warm up to new ideas. How – ANELE GEQIWE do you market your services? PM: Besides social media, word-of- PATRICK MISSILE mouth brings me new customers. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege Professional wig designer of being profiled by local and pat_perfect_beauty_palace international media houses. That’s helped me tremendously. GQ: You’re used to glamming up celebrities. Is there a difference in doing the same for ordinary men? PM: Even though I’ve worked with A-listers, I treat all my customers like celebrities. I believe we’re all stars in our own right. Everyone who walks into my salon deserves special treatment regardless of their social status. GQ: Most men who experience balding opt for a chiskop (shaven bald). Do AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 19

ESSENTIALS | GROOMING ‘Each time I venture into a new industry, I come in with fresh eyes and am never contaminated by the conventional wisdom of it’ The about your constant a culture blueprint ripe for mastermind career changes? a business opportunity. IF: For me, the people, culture With over 40 years of expertise, and fundamentals of business GQ: Why the name “Sorbet”, renowned founder of the Sorbet Group are exciting, whether you’re and what made the Ian Fuhr is proof of culture-led business selling records, beauty products brand successful? success or coaching. I don’t look at my IF: I was given a list of names life as full of career changes. to choose from. Sorbet jumped Instead, each move I’ve made has out at me. I liked the ice cream helped me develop and refine my part of it because Sorbet ice ideology of Cultureneering. cream is known for being fresh and colourful. That’s what we Each time I venture into a new wanted our stores to represent, industry, I come in with fresh instead of traditional dark, eyes and am never contaminated dull salons. by the conventional wisdom of it. That allows me to try new things People often comment on and break the mould. what a great name it is. In hindsight, it is, but the business GQ: The record company you builds the name, the name owned, Munjale Productions, doesn’t build the business. signed artists such as the late Hugh Masekela and GQ: What’s your next move? Letta Mbulu. Describe IF: I’m busy living it. I’m hoping that experience. that through our business IF: I met the two incredible interventions, we can slowly artists, Caiphus Semenya and but surely transform mindsets Letta Mbulu, in the early ’80s, and and turn the tide of racial decided to leave K-Mart to launch polarisation in South Africa. a record business with them as my Business has the power to affect partners. Letta’s first album was deep, on-the-ground change. a huge hit, and the business grew nicely. I then signed up Hugh, – ANELE GEQIWE who was based in America at the time, and the hugely successful local band, The Soul Brothers. GQ: Tell us about yourself. apartheid South Africa. Moreover, GQ: How did the Sorbet IAN FUHR PHOTOGRAPHY GALLO/GETTY IMAGES, SUPPLIED Ian Fuhr: I’m a South African the realities of racial polarisation Group come about? serial entrepreneur, the founder and white privilege, and what it IF: I was having a massage one Founder of the of the Sorbet Group of beauty takes to overcome our biases. day, and the masseuse asked, Sorbet Group and salons and, most recently, The why don’t you look at the beauty The Hatch Institute Hatch Institute, a coaching and I’ve written three books: industry? But I couldn’t imagine business consulting organisation Get that feeling (2014), The myself in that industry. And she involved in transformation and Soul of Sorbet (2018) and said, well, you know, there’s not helping business leaders across Cultureneering (2021). Business one significant multiple-unit the country discover the power culture, leadership development, branded chain of beauty salons in of Cultureneering™. executive coaching, team South Africa. dynamics, life coaching, customer Cultureneering can be defined service and race relations are This excited me. Over the as building a strong culture in among my areas of expertise. previous 28 years, I’d developed a diverse workforce that lays the what I believed was a framework platform for obsessive customer GQ: You started your career for successful business culture. service. I’ve spent over 40 years in retail at K-Mart, jumped If you could create a working building cultures and businesses, into the music industry environment based on a sense of and during that time have learned and then the beauty space, belonging and a common purpose the importance of understanding and now you’re in business of obsessive customer service – what it means to grow up in coaching. What excites you you had a recipe for a successful business. By 2004, I’d developed 20 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022

GQ PROMOTION Flying high AMSTERDAM-FOUNDED Aviation icon Amelia Earhart CLOTHING RETAIL ER Scotch inspires Scotch & & Soda brings the essence of Soda’s winter range Amelia Earhart back to life through its winter 2021 range. But, moreover, the collection masculine and feminine touch. strives to underpin a feeling of Additionally, there are versatile In its collection, which ease and comfort. You can see this pieces that can be matched with champions individuality in its relaxed workwear denim everyday essentials such as the and authenticity, the brand cuts, such as the Italian organic purple blazer velvet suit and empowers self-expression cotton selvedge Vert jeans, a colourful printed trousers. through unique designs that are genderless teddy housecoat, reflective of Earhart’s. chequered wool-blend overshirt Lastly, the Scotch & Soda and track pants, each offering footwear options include the Earhart, known for her light, easy loungewear and laid- hiker-style suede Avion, the vintage wrinkle-free dresses, back options for indoors. Mafei, a reinterpreted gumboot pants, skirts and outerwear in suede with practical crafted off parachute silk and While Earhart functioned in rubber soles all executed with fabrics designed practically a male-dominated space, in an a functional edge. And for a for active women, was an era where work suits were only lover of accessories, a leather icon in the aviation industry designed for men and poorly capsule encompassing wallets, whose plane mysteriously fitted women in the practice, the cardholders and laptop cases disappeared in the Atlantic occasion wear floral jacquard completes the collection. Ocean on a mission to complete trousers and the metallic green a circumnavigational flight of fil coupé dress shirt introduce For more information, the globe in the late ’30s. a confident mix of Earhart’s visit scotch-soda.co.za The range’s outerwear infuses comfort and function, influenced by Earhart’s bomber jackets, which she wears in-flight. In addition, the water- repellent double-layered hybrid jackets, a cotton-twill parka and an oversized, quilted poncho add to the layering statement, bringing unique functionality to the items. Taking on Earhart’s iconic look, the utility suits, which boldly reference menswear, are available in various guises. These comprise a navy twill jumpsuit, blazers and cargo pants, denim shirts and jeans, all of which offer a contemporary view on uniform dressing. The range also borrows from Earhart’s quotes, such as ‘No borders, just horizons, only freedoms’, to inspire a sense of freedom and practicality in the designs. This can be seen in its jackets and shirts. The prints in the material reflect the elements related to the aviation icon, such as clouds, suns, mountains, panoramas, elevation maps and compass points. All these are playfully infused in the apparel to emphasise Earhart’s spirit.

CHEF’S SPECIAL Top Chef-alum Kwame Onwuachi caught up with GQ about being on set, his most-treasured meals and experiencing the world’s best cuisines

ESSENTIALS | PROFILE PHOTOGRAPHS GALLO/GETTY IMAGES KWAME ONWUACHI WOULD GQ: Anyone who’s worked ‘I try to have 15 dishes per challenge, we’d be in food service in any a little bit of full when we got home. Later in PREFER YOU NOT CALL HIM capacity knows that there balance. It’s good the competition when there are isn’t much downtime, even to have a time fewer dishes to judge, I could order A CEL EBRIT Y CHEF. Still, it’s when it comes to getting where you just takeout if I needed something else. hard to not take note of the James a meal in. How are you going sit down with the Portland has an incredible food Beard award-winner’s profile over about keeping yourself fed team and scene so I was ordering some really the last few years. After a breakout throughout the day? eat something. dope stuff. There was a great chicken run on Top Chef: California in KO: Honestly, I’m eating That’s important’ and rice spot, a West African place, 2015, he went on to open Kith/ throughout the shift. As executive Jamaican, I could really go on. And Kin in Washington, DC, to rave chef , I’m constantly tasting food KO: It wasn’t quite pleasant. We I mean, other nights I’d just order reviews, write the bestselling to maintain it’s quality. That’s when were stuck eating catering food Domino’s! Thirty minutes or autobiography Notes from a I’m doing most of my eating. I’ll when we were on set. We’d spend less, man. Young Black Chef, and return to probably have one meal a day when all day cooking these incredible, television as part of Top Chef: I’m working as a chef. I always intricate meals and then have to GQ: Those early challenges Portland’s judging panel. try to instil a family meal in my pick up food from a takeaway. It really do a marathon for restaurants where the staff gets the was trash. Or they’d have us order the judges. I know Padma Most recently, he’s partnered chance to eat something together. breakfast from a cafe or something, Lakshmi has talked about with ORLY to launch a line of I wouldn’t say the days of just so by the time the food was how they can run up to nail polish and published working straight through service are delivered to the hotel room, it was 20 000 kilojoules a day a cookbook – a spiritual follow-up over, but I try to have a little bit two sunny-side-up eggs (that were or more. Even later in the to his autobiography – titled My of balance. It’s good to have cold and semi-solid because they’d season, when the numbers America: Recipes from a Young a time where you just sit down with been cooked 45 minutes earlier) and are lower, the dishes are just Black Chef. Despite the rise of the team and eat something. toast you could throw off the wall. so full of butter and fat. this definitely-not-celebrity, That’s important. You’ve really gotta take, like, one Onwuachi wants you to know that GQ: You’ve gotten a bit of bite of each dish. It’s hard, especially he isn’t too good for Domino’s. GQ: What does that one a raw deal in that sense when you like something. You want GQ caught up with him to talk meal a day tend to be? because the next time you to eat more but there are six, seven about how he eats in a busy KO: It could be anything. Usually, were on the show was during other dishes ahead. restaurant kitchen, the signature it’s what we’re serving. A family meal Top Chef: Portland, when cuisines of the cities he’s called could be so many different things. you served as part of the GQ: You grew up in New home, and the best dish he’s ever We’ll usually give it a theme such judging panel. Given that the York and now split your time eaten on Top Chef. as Thai, Jamaican or Italian. I don’t season was filmed during between the city and Los want to eat the same things every the quarantine period Angeles, but you also ran GQ: Longtime fans of Top Chef day, you know? There’s too of the pandemic, was a restaurant in Washington, know about the evolution of you much good food. the food situation there D.C. for quite a while. What and your colleague Geoffrey better or worse than your stands out about each of Gourdet for being best-dressed GQ: That’s a good first season? those cities in terms of in the culinary world, which is guiding principle. KO: We didn’t have to eat catering the food they offer and one of the long-term narratives KO: Don’t get me wrong: I’ll diet because we’d eat during the shoot, how that interacts with of the show. When you’re on and do the whole chicken breast, which was way better. Earlier in their communities? set these days, which cleaning brown rice, broccoli thing if I’m the season when there are four to KO: It’s hard to say. Obviously, products do you keep on getting ready to be on camera or LA’s Mexican food is unmatched, hand in case your Rick Owens something. But I’m in New York but so is their access to incredible catches a stray bit of sauce? right now, so this morning I had ingredients year-round because of Kwame Onwuachi: I try to eat a bacon, egg and cheese sandwich the growing seasons. DC’s Ethiopian clean. I eat with intention, making for breakfast. I hit a pizza parlour cuisine is the best in the nation. sure that I lean over the table and last night then got to do caviar with And then New York’s variety and take the necessary measures. I don’t chips at a champagne bar. It’s all quality of your average restaurant have anything on hand, but there’s based on cravings for me. That’s how is higher than anywhere else. always someone on set with a stain I try to live. And if I can’t buy it, I’ll There’s so much competition in remover or something in case things just make it. such a condensed space that it’s just get a little crazy. But I’ve never really necessary for survival. The volume is gotten a mess going. GQ: Let’s talk about your just unmatched, too. I think there’re time on Top Chef a bit. probably more French restaurants in Almost every season is set New York than there are in France. in a single city – except for your run, which saw the cast But with New York, it also tour throughout California depends on where you grew up. and stay in hotels. Given the I grew up in the South Bronx, change of setting, how was so Dominican, Puerto Rican, the food situation? Ethiopian, and Chinese takeout are king. – TRES DEAN AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 23

ESSENTIALS | TRAVEL When GQ had a chance to explore this gem, we loved everything about it. A few things that stood Welcome out that we have to give you the 411 on.  to The Beverly The versatility of the rooms Hills Hotel Whether you’re into old-school glam or Award-winning luxury in Umhlanga contemporary style, The Beverly Hills Hotel is eye-catching. Every room and suite has stunning Indian Ocean views, no matter what floor you’re on. From its standard rooms to presidential suites, each of its 89 rooms has a private balcony or terrace and features an en-suite bathroom, unlimited WiFi, complimentary garment pressing, a porter and valet service, 24-hour room service, Nespresso machine, flatscreen with DStv, and more. There’s also a selection of cabanas and suites, which offer enhanced luxury and space. Junior suites feature upgraded bathrooms, and cabanas have easy pool access and a private outdoor space while its presidential suites have some of the best views on the KwaZulu-Natal coast. The very best dining experience Be it a romantic dinner, family or private group outing or sundowners, dining at the Hotel is top- notch. Its dishes are innovative and delicious, best accompanied by one of its fine wines, cocktails and mouth-watering desserts. You could easily spend an entire day there! IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR AN UNMATCHED STANDARD OF LUXURY, hospitality and intuitive service, consider The Beverly Hills Hotel in Umhlanga. Established in 1964, the award- winning venue is centralised on the Umhlanga Rocks beachfront, offering guests tranquil ocean views from every room, boutique spa treatments, culinary excellence and access to its iconic outdoor pool.  Positioned between Umhlanga’s famous pier and lighthouse, the Hotel has classically elegant interiors complemented by modern-luxury amenities such as unlimited WiFi, Nespresso machines, pillow choices and flatscreen DStv. You can savour culinary excellence in style at The Sugar Club, where orchids and ocean views set the scene for afternoon tea, its famous Sunday lunch buffets and refined dining. At Elements Café Bar, the oysters are fresh, the champagne is chilled, and there’s nowhere better for sundowners. And if relaxation is what you’re after, the hotel’s heated outdoor pool or boutique Mangwanani Spa are more than perfect.  24 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022

ESSENTIALS | TRAVEL ‘You can enjoy Indian Ocean oysters with seasonal and delicious dining choices and cocktails that are a taste of summer in a glass’ BOOK YOUR STAY Beyond its à la carte offering, The Beverly Hills oysters with seasonal and delicious dining Hotel is famous for its Afternoon Haute Tea choices and cocktails that are a taste of summer To get in touch with Buffet on Saturdays and its always-popular in a glass. Inspired design elements such as ghost The Beverly Hills Hotel, visit: Sunday Lunch Buffet. Depending on your dining chairs, comfy couches and statement chandeliers southernsun.com/beverly-hills/ preferences, you can choose to dine at: set the mood, but the views from the floor-to- contact-us ceiling sliding glass doors are a talking point. The Sugar Club offers a menu of exceptional Its bar selection is as classy as its setting with dishes, stunning views of the Indian Ocean, premium liquor mixologist-crafted cocktails, delicious desserts and famous buffets. champagne and Cape sparkling wines alongside virgin cocktails and local and imported beers. A member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, Its all-day dining menu combines fresh seafood, the cuisine at The Sugar Club is prepared using beautifully presented local dishes, salads, pizzas, fine ingredients with refined techniques to offer café classics and desserts. guests a menu of dishes as perfect for a romantic date night as they are for a family dinner. An In-room dining  is available for guests who award-winning wine list and selection of Auction wish to experience the fine cuisine from these Wines add to the occasion. Umhlanga restaurants within the comfort and privacy of their room. These restaurants, bars Elements Café Bar  is Umhlanga’s go-to and alfresco settings can also host private and group events. – ANELE GEQIWE spot for gourmet café dining with uninterrupted oceanfront views. You can enjoy Indian Ocean AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 25

GAME OF CLOUDSDhoigXhbdoexmcaonndsocloenstsintiulleh, calvoeuadpglaamceinagtiMs microorseoafttt?raAcstilvoewtshuapnpelvyearnd But for Phil Spencer, the man at Microsoft responsible for its household-name gaming device, hardware is still key. For him, the shift to the cloud physical platforms entirely. has been about creating a hybrid One where it’s easy to ask: does approach, one that allows Microsoft TWO Microsoft need to make consoles to expand its market beyond Xbox DECADES AGO, anymore? fans. He told TheVerge in 2020 that when tthe first Xbox arrived, It’s a tempting prospect. Supply he didn’t think the latest generation it used the internet for small-scale chain shutdowns and a global of consoles would be the last ones multiplayer, and every game came chip shortage – spurred by the the company shipped, and his on a disc. Microsoft built a massive Covid-19 pandemic – have made stance on the matter hasn’t changed. business selling consoles that grew the Xbox Series X/S very hard to ‘We’ve lived through two years of to play games beyond those discs. find without constant vigilance or real constraint in the market,’ he As the company looks forward to overpaying a reseller. Meanwhile, says. ‘Giving people more choice in its next 20 years, it’s doing so in the Xbox gaming app launched how they can play games definitely an industry shifting away from on Samsung smart TVs under its has been a good thing, both for our gaming brought to you by a single OMEN Gaming Hub at the end business and gamers.’ device, one where mobile inevitably of June, allowing anyone with the Cloud-based gaming via will overtake Xboxes, and cloud right Bluetooth controller to stream platforms such as Google Stadia gaming is eradicating Xbox titles without a console. haven’t had the smoothest of

ESSENTIALS | TECHNOLOGY launches, but Similarly, Samsung won’t end with ‘IT’S VIDEO companies Xbox. Lee says the idea wasn’t GAMES including Sony and to build its ecosystem around THAT MAKE Microsoft are better poised Xbox, but rather to work with it THE SELL, to make this work. Sony and companies like it. ‘Working WHETHER IT’S just merged its cloud gaming with Xbox really gave us the HARDWARE service, PlayStation Now, with foundation in terms of how to OR CLOUD its more popular PlayStation build this service and how to move GAMING’ Plus subscription. Microsoft has forward,’ Lee says. ‘From the get-go, name recognition that makes the our philosophy has always been to AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 27 service easily identifiable over offer the discovery experience that would-be competitors. is very open.’ Spencer also notes that while cloud gaming can bring in new Spencer points to the company’s players, there will always be library of games – as well as its ‘people who are looking for recent acquisition of Activision dedicated, high-end devices Blizzard – as a key focus for the to play games in the highest company going forward. fidelity they can in their homes’. For many of those players, that Indeed, it’s video games that device is an Xbox, something make the sell, whether it’s hardware even the head of Samsung’s or cloud gaming. Without a strong service business team, Won-Jin lineup to woo players, it doesn’t Lee, agrees with: ‘The hardcore matter how many TVs Xbox gamers will always play their overtakes if no one wants to play. games on consoles.’ The Xbox App will be available – MEGAN FAROKHMANESH on Samsung TVs first, but not exclusively. The company says it’s exploring other partnerships.



ESSENTIALS | ADEKUNLE GOLD Nigerian superstar Adekunle Gold is setting his own rules when it comes to creating the music that forms his legacy THE GOLD Words by Shannon Manuel Photographs by Simon Thiselton at Dais Agency Photographer’s assistants Dan Landsburgh and Nicholas Freemand STANDARD AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 29

ESSENTIALS | ADEKUNLE GOLD IF THERE’S Ebenezer Obey, so I listened to those artists. LEFT TO RIGHT I listened to a lot of highlife and juju music, Top own design; ONE THING THAT some apala and fuji, beautiful sounds from pants Salt Murphy; ADEKUNLE GOLD, Nigeria, but I was also listening to Backstreet sunglasses Prada; Boys, Westlife, Boyz II Men and Usher. When also known as AG Baby, is passionate about, I was older, the first album I bought with earrings and it’s unlocking new levels of his artistry and my money was Overexposed by Maroon 5. necklace both Lovisa expressing himself on his terms. With successful I didn’t have one style of music that I liked the albums and singles under his belt, the highlife most, I enjoyed exploring music in general, and Top AKJP; pants, singer, songwriter and graphic designer is one of all of these people have informed my writing gloves and shades the brightest stars in the Nigerian music industry. today.’ He names Bruno Mars and Post Malone as His blend of Afro and soul over uptempo beats two of his current favourite artists. all o wn design; have made him a global favourite. boots Zara Gold has been on an upward trajectory since He recently released his highly anticipated he first burst onto the music scene with his 2014 album Catch Me If You Can via Platoon, his track release ‘Sade’, a cover of One Direction’s fourth studio album. Combining themes of the ‘Story Of My Life’, which enjoyed massive importance of growth, embracing the unknown, airplay from radio stations in Nigeria. After the fame and success, and shedding expectations of release of ‘Sade’, Gold released his first official others, the album is a layered experience into the single titled ‘Orente’ through YBNL Nation, essence of Gold. after signing a two-year music contract with the record label in 2015. However, the road to ‘Catch Me if You Can is my best work yet,’ success wasn’t easy. says Gold. ‘I’m grateful for every moment that has led to each song on this album. The only way ‘It was harder than tough, and I had to I can describe it is that this album is 14 tracks overcome a lot,’ says Gold. ‘When I was in the of awesomeness – they’re conversations about choir as a teen, nobody really believed in me my life. It’d be impossible for me to choose my as a bonafide singer. And when I was older, favourite because they all have their place. It’s my I encountered many closed doors when looking fourth studio album and the fourth level of my for opportunities. During that time, I also tried adventure game, which is how I view my musical my hand at reality music talent search shows. career. Level one was my debut album Gold in I auditioned for MTN Project Fame twice but 2016, level two was About 30, 2018, and level didn’t qualify and was told I wasn’t good enough.’ three was Afropop Volume 1.’ He says that while he experienced a lot of ‘It gets really interesting at every level; there disappointment and could’ve easily given up, are new characters, villains, and challenges to he decided to double down on his goal. ‘It was deal with. And that’s how my projects are. Catch time to focus on my reality, so I started working Me If You Can is really about how I’m not done, on my writing more. I found a sound for myself. how I’ve only just started and a sort of challenge I did a lot of covers. I worked as a graphic to those who think they’ve seen the best of me – designer and made music on the side until quite literally, catch me if you can.’ I discovered Olamide, one of the best Nigerian rappers. He’d just launched his label YBNL THE MUSICAL JOURNEY Nation and had signed two artists. I designed the logo for his label. He didn’t know I was singing. Gold discovered his musical talent at a young I released my cover ‘Sade’, and he listened to it, age. ‘I grew up in a Muslim family, but my dad liked it, and that’s what got me signed. was a liberal man and allowed us to go to church. I joined the choir very early, and that’s where ‘The struggle and hustle to get to here were I first picked up my interest in singing. Growing really long and tough. The only right thing to up, our home was always filled with music. My do for me is win. I’ve had to prove to people that dad used to play a lot of King Sunny Adé and I’m capable of doing something great. It’s really crazy that many people didn’t get it then, some of whom still don’t get it now, despite what it may look like in terms of social media views. My only response to any adversity is to focus on the win, even if it’s not instant. I focus on whatever it takes to be the best version of myself. I make sure everything I do creatively surpasses the last thing I did. I read somewhere that you’re only as good as your last promise, so that always guides me.’ » 30 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022



Top AKJP; pants, gloves and shades all own design; boots Zara

ESSENTIALS | ADEKUNLE GOLD CREATIVIT Y AT ITS FINEST ‘I don’t think I’d be able to function if I couldn’t ‘I don’t create for the sake of creating. I want create,’ says Gold. ‘We express ourselves through all of my songs to outlive me’ creativity. As we create, we learn more about ourselves. We open ourselves to new ideas, say yes, that’s my work, and it’s good. All that Gold has experimented with different sounds on build confidence to try new things and, by matters is that I like it first. I don’t rush my each album, which he’s immensely proud of. But creating a creative space, you create a safe space sessions. On some days, I’ll write three songs it hasn’t always received a favourable response to experiment and just be yourself. The fact that in one session, but, on the other hand, if all from audiences. I can create a song in the corner of my room, the I have after 12 hours is one line, then that’s studio or wherever inspiration strikes, release it okay too. ‘The thing that amazes me most is how people and have millions of people listen to and sing it are so reluctant to allow an artist to get into a new back to me is mind-blowing. I’ll never be able ‘It’s always madness putting a project thing. People are so comfortable with the first to understand it. It’s also what I love most about together. I started making Catch Me If You Can version you put out, the thing they know. They being a musician – reaching people, having an in 2020and had no idea what I’d call it then. But don’t want you to change and sort of condemn impact, and allowing them to share my passion I knew I wanted it to mirror my feelings at that you for exploring something new. We’ve all seen through my songs.’ moment. I wrote so many songs, and it was it happen to many artists when they veer off their tough picking the final 14. It was supposed to be “usual” path and try something different. As When it comes to his creative process, he says out last September, but I wasn’t really satisfied, a creative, if you ever give into those criticisms, he doesn’t follow a specific game plan. ‘I don’t and felt I could do more, so we pushed back it’ll be the death of you. have a set process. I make songs that are true to the date. I don’t really have places where I feel my current energy. I make sure that whatever I’m most inspired, but I prefer writing songs outside ‘Thankfully, I was smart enough to step feeling in the moment – whatever my heart and the studio, in the corner of my room and my outside the boxes people wanted to put me in. mind are saying – is all that I do. This is the real own space.’ When I came out with my first sound and album, truth of my art,’ says Gold. it was pure highlife – that’s what I was enjoying FAME AND THE CRITICS at the time. It was the sound that was inspiring ‘If I’m feeling that I want to rap tomorrow, me and the space that was fuelling my creativity. then I’ll do it. There’s no method to it. It’s not like When it comes to the downside of fame, he When my first album was released, I knew my I’m trying to find the perfect balance. The one states that one thing he can say with absolute next one was going to be a bit more pop. And thing that I cannot change no matter how hard certainty is that the power of being unknown when I released it, many naysayers said the first I try is my voice; it’s the one thing that’s going is underrated. ‘Once you’re in the public eye, album was better, but I saw it coming. I knew to be constant in my entire existence and career. your life isn’t your own anymore. People want it was going to happen, but I didn’t give up and I’m going to speak my truth. I don’t promise to intentionally misunderstand or misconstrue guess what? Months later, people were saying anything except that what I produce is going to what you say. Before I became well known, that that it was the best album. be good. Just know that whatever I put out, I’m wasn’t happening. You want fame but forget super-confident about it. And if you don’t like it, there’s no privacy, and I struggle with that. ‘It’s also crazy how people don’t want to that’s okay. I like it.’ But, hey, I’m doing well every day, and as time discover this themselves, they want the opinion passes, you grow older, and you realise all these of others. They’ll follow what other people say in One thing he does keep in mind when things don’t even matter. I don’t get sucked in, so reviews, on social media and the radio, and only making music is its long-term impact. ‘I don’t it’s okay. then will they give it a chance. If you’re a fan of an create for the sake of creating. I want all of my artist, you should trust in their work and discover songs to outlive me, not in the sense that they’ll ‘Nowadays, I don’t talk much on social media for yourself if it’s good or not. simply still be available after I’m gone, but they’ll because it’s just boring when you say something, still invoke emotion and affect people. I never but people change it to suit some other narrative. ‘In 2020, I went full-on Afro-pop and got That’s not to say that if I have something to say, some people asking, why are you doing this? want to create something that’s just disposable. I won’t; I just don’t have the energy anymore to When I look back at my career, I want to be able I want my music to be something you listen to put myself out there for people who want to to say, I did everything, and I wasn’t scared to for life, that new generations listen to. That’s intentionally put me in the wrong. I put all that explore different sounds and be great at it.’ energy into my music. Music gives me an outlet how I think. It’s a longevity game for me.’ to say anything, and I really enjoy the freedom ‘With each album, I’ve reached more He explains he’s not one to produce of it. I also don’t put energy into what others people, increased my numbers, gotten on are doing on social media. My time goes into more stages, which screams growth. If you get within specific time frames and has never my work, and I only compare myself to myself. too comfortable and set in your ways, you’ll liked the idea of being pressured to make Music is my outlet to say anything and I really never grow. Now I’ve released my best work creative work. ‘For some people, having enjoy it.’ yet that I know people will compare to my previous albums, but will that stop me? No. My a time limit or a deadline works, but next project is almost done and is going to be I’ll never put out any song that I’m not 100% happy with just because of another upgrade.’ » a time frame. For example, it took me seven months to finish the track ‘High’ (ft Davido). Sometimes, if I’m looking for a word or feel I need to add something to a melody, I’ll leave a session and come back to it. I take my time to put out something because once I put it out, I can’t take it back. I need to be able to AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 33

ESSENTIALS | ADEKUNLE GOLD COLL ABORATING With added popularity comes crossover – most FOR SUCCESS evidenced by remixes and additional verses added to already popular Afrobeat tracks. Gold has collaborated with numerous high- Two of the most well-known tracks of late are profile artists. His latest album features Ty Dolla WizKid’s  ‘Essence’  featuring Justin Bieber and $ign, Stefflon Don, Lucky Daye, Foushée and Fireboy DML’s  ‘Peru’  featuring Ed Sheeran. Davido, among others. When choosing his While these are direct collaborations, there’s been collaborations, he says that the only thing that an increase in American artists showing interest matters to him is the music, not the name. in and using Afro sounds to elevate their sound and gain traction on the charts. ‘When I write, I don’t collaborate much because sometimes collaboration can feel Sharing his thoughts on this, Gold says gimmicky or just about the numbers, which is music will always have many influences and can okay, but you can’t forget about the music. You never be considered singular and that a broader can get the best rappers and artists, and it doesn’t conversation needs to be had about giving credit do anything. Collaborations between big names where it’s due. ‘If you’re making something haven’t always hit the mark because the song that’s Afrobeat, talk about it and say that you’re mightn’t be as good. If you look at people I’ve influenced by a Nigerian artist, or a Ghanain, or featured in the past, they’re not always the most Kenyan. Acknowledge the African artist who has popular artists but complement the sound. inspired you.’ ‘When I write music, I already have in the Asked about the person who inspires him back of my mind who I think will take the sound most, Gold says that has to be his wife, Nigerian to an entirely new level and balance it well. That’s singer-songwriter Simi. ‘She’s an amazing how I choose my collaborations.’ songwriter, sound engineer, vocal producer and creative. She’s the first person I play my songs for The past few years, however, have seen and really helps me produce the best I can. There a rapid evolution of the Afrobeat scene across are certain songs I don’t want to give to anyone Africa, and Nigeria is leading its explosion. except Simi because I know she has that touch. Afrobeats have not only captured a new Western She mixed my first album, part of the second, audience, but influenced the sounds of some of and a few of my best songs, including ‘Okay’ and America’s biggest artists. Asked about the rise of ‘Mercy’. We work well together.’ the Afrobeat wave that’s been taking over the US and other parts of the world, Gold says that while After marrying in 2019, they welcomed it’s great, the fact is that Africa has been making their first child the following year, a daughter amazing music for a very long time. named Adejare. Speaking about the impact of fatherhood, he says that becoming a father has ‘I think the world is late on the beauty that is been one of his life’s greatest joys. ‘Being a father African music, which has been around for a long has made me grow so much more. Not that time. It’s been the best genre for a long time. The I was making bad decisions, but I feel I’m making percussion, the guitars, the melodies, the reading better decisions now. I’m also more aware of – African music has so much soul and diversity. being present. If I’m required to be away for We have RnB, amapiano, Afro-pop and highlife. two months because of my music, I find ways African music is for any mood. The world is lit to beg my team, “Can’t we make it one month?” on it, and I’m glad they’re finally catching up, As much as I’m a superstar, I also want to be but it should’ve been happening years ago. And a dad.’ there’s still catching up to do because the genre is so broad. Regarding the legacy he wants to leave his daughter, he says, ‘I want her to know that I did ‘African music hasn’t changed. I don’t it all, that there are no limits to what you can think its success is based on the fact that achieve. People didn’t give me a chance, but I international artists are featuring more African broke down all the doors, and my resilience paid artists or utilising more Afro beats. African off. I just want her to know that I lived and that artists have always been doing the work, and she can too.’ the internet has made them more popular – there’s more access, exposure and sharing music.’ Gold is excited about returning to London, where he’ll perform for the first time in four ‘I’m living my best life at the moment. years. His last London performance was the I’m living by my own rules, making music that sold-out About 30 concert in 2018. In October, he’ll play at the O2 Academy Brixton. I love. It’s nothing but gold, baby’ ‘I’m living my best life at the moment. I’m living by my rules, making music that I love and setting my own standard. For a long time, I held myself to a standard people created for me. Now I’m in a place where I feel free to say how it is. What I’m releasing now reflects this, and it’s nothing but gold, baby.’ 34 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022

Top AKJP; pants, gloves and shades all own design; boots Zara

GQCOZA G E A R From coupés to SUVs made in Germany, Italy and beyond, read up on the newest cars we’re obsessed with pgHead 96to < < For more inspiring images P H OTO G R A P H Y BY W I N STO N S U SS E N S , SAS H A O L S E N , S U P P L I E D BY R I M AC M E D I A G A L L E R I E S , H AY D E N P H I P P S LUXURY S T Y L E Up-to-the-minute fashion and runway news, < Must-haves, all daily style upgrades and exclusive behind-the-scenes action things trending, and exclusive hands-on reviews of coveted items worth the splurge v follow Parting shot US On the back page of every issue, we feature ON one last stylish image from our GQdotcoza GQ cover shoot. Sun-El Musician was GQSouthAfrica photographed by Niquita Bento. GQ South Africa 36 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022

BMW ELEC TRIC Words by Walter Hayward LOVE Combining a heavenly ride and tech-laden cabin, BMW has created the ultimate luxury EV experience AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 37

LET’S BMW should compensate me for being an influencer with the GET number of times I’ve had to wax lyrical about the iX to random THIS OUT OF THE WAY: THIS CAR strangers. Don’t get me wrong, I loved it, and I believe I spread IS A MASTERPIECE, A SUBLIME the EV gospel dutifully. But like any religion, its deities garner COMBINATION OF DRIVING mixed followings. DYNAMICS AND CUTTING-EDGE Did I just refer to the iX as a deity? Possibly, but stick with me. TECH. Say what you will about When it was first unveiled, it caused its styling, but that all falls by the a backlash. The media called it an wayside when you’re blasting from affront to all things holy, some even 0-100km/h in utter silence. going as far as calling it the worst- looking BMW ever – I believe I’ll confess, I wanted to dislike it that prize goes to the F07 5-Series based purely on its styling, yet, like GT. The iX doesn’t come across most of BMW’s latest designs, it’s as visually appealing onscreen or rather gorgeous in the flesh. What paper, but right here, the key in my genuinely surprised me was how hand, it’s stunning. much attention this thing draws. I was stuck in traffic next to a red Ferrari F8 Tributo, and guess who pedestrians were staring at? Cue sunglasses emoji.

GEAR | BMW Our tester came in a sultry ‘IT’S BEEN Aventurine Red shade with A WHILE a snazzy Titan Bronze trim around SINCE I’VE its windows and enormous 22-inch HAD THIS alloy wheels. From certain angles – MUCH FUN its rear three-quarters mostly – it’s IN A striking. And I think that’s what LARGE SUV’ BMW’s designers planned. It took me a while to get used to the front But let’s forget about aesthetics for styling, the grille is divisive, and a second. The driving dynamics of the lights are a bit awkward, but the iX are otherworldly. Because of it works, especially in darker its low centre of gravity – thanks to paint jobs. batteries in the floor – it’s perfectly composed and stays flat on corners. Step inside the voluminous It’s been a while since I’ve had cabin, and you’ll soon forget this much fun in a large SUV. The those sinful looks. It’s positively acceleration alone will have you futuristic, from its dual-screen giggling like a child. setup to its buttonless dashboard and floating centre console. Once you reach your desired Running BMW’s latest iDrive 8, speed, the ride feels effortless and the infotainment system is a doddle the cabin silent. Despite its massive kerb weight and wheels, it glides IPLHLOUTSOT GR RA TA IPOHNY BSYU PS IP LM IOEND ABBYRBAMN OW W I C Z BMW iX xDRIVE50 and features wireless Apple CarPlay across rough surfaces with the poise and Android Auto. of a – dare I say it – Rolls-Royce > > POWER 385kW, dual-motor, Cullinan. Blasphemy? Not at all. all-wheel drive Our car came specced with Electrification and luxury motoring a gorgeous red leather interior go hand in hand. > > 0-100KM/H in 4.6 seconds – dyed using olive extracts. > > RANGE up to 630km Sustainable! Also specced was its However, it’s not all smooth (WLTP figures) crystal switchgear – very glitzy but sailing. One criticism of the EV > > PRICE R2 225 000 rather blinding when the sun hits at movement comes in the form of (before options) just the right angle… public charging infrastructure – BMW.CO.ZA or lack thereof. If you’re seriously Speaking of which, it has an airy considering an iX, ensure you can cabin thanks to a giant sunroof. It’s charge it at home and treat it like unfortunately fixed and sans blind, a smartphone – plug it in overnight but that’s where the next party and have a full charge by sunrise. trick comes in. It’s electrochromic, Relying on current public chargers meaning at a touch of a button, will leave you painfully frustrated. I can dim it, blocking out unwanted Put briefly, Mzansi desperately sunlight – a smart solution but needs more DC rapid chargers. a pricey optional extra. Overall, this is the most polished car I’ve ever had the pleasure of driving. It’s all you could ever want from a luxury SUV; fast, comfortable and stylish. If you’ve got the dosh and charging capabilities, I’d say, go for it. Be prepared, however, to spread the EV gospel to eager listeners. It’s a surefire way to make progress. Amen indeed. AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 39

GEAR | NISSAN POWER An award-winning offering with a fresh face, Nissan’s updated Navara proves its worth despite having serious rivals Words by Nare Kekana 40 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022

P HOTOG RA P HY BY CO RNÉ L VA N HE E RD EN NISSAN SELLS ITS audio speakers (six in dual labs), Bluetooth ‘In perfect a tractor-like 450Nm of peak torque connectivity with audio streaming, easy- shape to between 1 500 and 2 500rpm and its NAVARA IN OVER 80 to-use cruise control operations on the perform on sequential turbochargers provide steering wheel and daytime running lamps the country’s exceptional lag-free accelerator response. COUNTRIES AND HAS for foggy overcast conditions. most rugged The latter is an additional factor that terrains, make contributes to the Nissan Navara having the PRODUCED MORE THAN When it comes to off-road credentials, it a classic best engine in the 4x4 double-cab class. the models boast a 12.5m turning circle, buy for the 15 MILLION UNITS. South 224mm of unladen ground clearance, 4x4 fanatic’ PRICE African motorists form 600mm wading depth, a 32-degree part of the lucky bunch approach, 22.9-degree ramp break-over The all-new Nissan Navara models come to have experienced this and 19.8-degree departure angle. The with a six-year/150 000km warranty and road beast. The locally interior is designed with comfort and style a six-year/90 000km service plan. You can manufactured pickup has for any trip. expect a starting price of R337 900 for the become a true legend of the entry-level model, while the top-of-the- roads, scooping the 2022 FEATURES range Navara variant 2.5D Pro-4X 4×4 Car of the Year accolade retails for R740 000. in the 4x4 double- Notable safety features that come cab segment. standard with the model range include forward-collision warning, autonomous The Navara’s reputation emergency braking (AEB), a savvy driver for reliability and power attention alert, hill-start assist and trailer- precedes it. And for local sway control. A striking feature is its customers, the model’s combination of high power with economic availability in single- and fuel consumption, making this revamped double-cab options, in model better than its predecessors. perfect engineering shape Additional safety features include an to perform on the country’s intelligent around-view monitor, lane most rugged terrains, departure warning/intervention capability make it a classic buy for the coupled with a rear-cross traffic alert, high typical 4x4 fanatic. With its beam assist and blind-spot steady on-road dynamics warning/intervention. and hard-hitting engine, it competes with the likes of ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION the Ford Ranger – which often lags in that turbo tug. Its premium four-cylinder turbo-diesel The ride quality is smooth engine produces 140kW at 3 750rpm and with level braking and steering consistent in both on- and off-road driving experiences. DESIGN Nissan’s new model is designed to be tougher with advanced off-road capability and increased payload capacity (one tonne). Adding to that are its technical specs, supported by a full suite of safety features and a refined interior to top its road rivals, such as the Mazda BT-50, Isuzu D-Max and the popular Toyota Hilux. Its 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display system is its first interior standout to support Apple Carplay and Android Auto. It’s packed with four AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 41

VITAMI NS, MINER AL S, such as some sugary drinks. Micronutrient supplementation HERBS AND AMINO ACIDS may be necessary for athletes who eliminate specific food ARE SOME EXAMPLES groups, those restricting food intake to manipulate their body O F N U T R I E N TS T H AT C O U L D composition (e.g. reduce fat), vegans, vegetarians or people IMPROVE OR COMPLEMENT with allergies. YOUR DIET. If you’re active, Do supplements boost you need more energy from performance? Not directly. carbohydrates, protein and fat They help you train better, to replenish what you burn and better training leads to off. Other ingredients such as better performance. caffeine, bicarbonate of soda and creatine can further alleviate Finally, do your homework. feelings of fatigue. Base your decision on the science behind supplements using Supplements can in certain credible resources rather than the situations be more practical, such opinion of the company selling as using a protein supplement the product. And don’t assume rather than carrying three boiled every natural supplement is safe eggs to the office for your protein in terms of health and doping fix at 10am or trying to eat an (more on that in FAQs). enormous amount of food in one sitting if you’re a hardcore athlete. HOW TO: PREP But a supplement should complement a healthy and What are you eating at the varied diet, not make up for poor moment? First, consider the nutrition. Think about why you quantity: if you’re not eating the need it. Perhaps to help buffer energy your body needs, use lactic acid if you’re training at a meal-replacement supplement. a high intensity, for example. If you’re deficient in macros – And are you already getting everyone wants to know about enough nutrition from real those – such as carbohydrate food? Many people think the or protein, supplement with more supplements you use, the a carbohydrate drink or whey better you train. The truth is, protein. Then, look at quality. not everyone needs them. Consider a multi-vitamin-mineral For example, if your protein supplement if you’re not eating intake isn’t deficient, adding enough wholewheat starches, fruit a whey protein drink won’t make and veg, lean protein, and milk a difference. products. Timing is also crucial. If eating real food before training The jury’s out on whether causes you to feel nauseous, or if you need micronutrient you can’t get to food soon enough supplementation. If you eat good quality food sources to provide optimal energy, you don’t, but you do if you consume junk food with low nutrient density, Drink this, ditch that! Are training supplements a help, hindrance – or just plain pointless? Registered dietician at Sports Performance Hub Nicki de Villiers shares the pros, cons, myths, how-tos and FAQs As told to Lisa Abdellah

SPORTS | OPENER L-arginine, an amino acid sweat, but it does help you ‘If your protein that relaxes the blood retain fluid better. intake isn’t deficient, vessels, allowing more adding a whey blood to transport P O S T-W O R KO U T protein drink won’t oxygen and nutrients make a difference’ to the exercising muscles. We talk about the three P H OTO G R A P H BY N ATA L I YA VA I T K E V I C H / P E X E L S .CO M afterwards, plan to replace Combined with Rs of recovery: refuel, kidney. (Creatine doesn’t a quickened heartbeat and it with a supplement. a stimulant, it makes every rehydrate and repair. You cause renal problems but elevated blood pressure. muscle work harder and have a very small window can exacerbate existing Side effects include heart PRE-WORKOUT increase in size. Having in which your glycogen ones.) More research is palpitations, nausea and bigger calf muscles is stores recover at a faster needed to understand vomiting. More than 800 You need to eat for what desirable, but an enlarged rate after training, and its short- and long-term dangerous reactions have you’re going to do, so heart can’t pump blood that’s when you should safety among under-18s. been reported with use of your energy intake before as efficiently as one that refuel with carbohydrates. Creatine also enhances the herb. These include a workout must align isn’t, which may lead to recovery, so don’t be heart attacks, strokes, with how long and hard complications such as Athletes might tempted to cut your rest seizures and deaths’. you’re going to train. Fuel a stroke or heart failure. consume protein and short and overtrain just every training session forget about the rest. But because you feel better, GQ: Is it possible with carbohydrates and Some contain your carbohydrates-to- as that can lead to an to take too many protein, such as toast with carbohydrates, others protein mix during this overuse injury.  supplements? peanut butter or yoghurt don’t, decreasing your window should be around Each micronutrient has with fruit. perception of fatigue 3-4g of carbohydrates GQ: How soon an upper limit, which, without fuelling (1-1.5g per kg of body after you’ve prepared if exceeded, can cause There are pre-workout your workout. Or mass) for every gram of a supplement harmful side effects, supplement pitfalls to manufacturers might protein (0.3-0.4g per kg drink should you either because it works consider. They often add branch-chain amino of body mass). Consume consume it? against the absorption contain a stimulant, such acids (BCAAs) that the a minimum of 20-25g of That depends on two of another nutrient or as caffeine or Guaraná, body converts to energy protein. You don’t need to things: preservatives contains ingredients, whose chief function – but not as efficiently rush your protein intake and temperature. Some such as iron, that can be is to decrease the as carbohydrates. By all because protein has supplements contain toxic. Extreme amounts of perception of fatigue, so means, drink espresso a longer anabolic window preservatives that make vitamin C can increase the even though your body with breakfast before than carbohydrates. them last longer, but risk of renal stones, and is tired, you don’t feel training to decrease your The timing of protein most companies try not excessive caffeine intake, sapped. Some contain perception of fatigue, but through regular meals to use excessive amounts. an ergogenic aid, can combine it with a meal to throughout the day, Usually, once you’ve negatively affect sleep and fuel your body.  every two to three hours, mixed it, you carry it to heart rate. enhances hypertrophy work rather than store it DURING – but ideally not at the in a fridge. So, the idea is The sensible thing to cost of carbohydrates. to consume it within 12 do is look at how the body Most sportspeople have (Biokineticist David Leith hours, after which you excretes ingredients, some a decreased availability defines hypertrophy as should discard it. through the liver and of carbohydrates during strain or stress that causes others the kidneys. If you a workout. Carbohydrate a muscle to grow in size). GQ: Do fat put the liver or kidneys on serves as the preferred burners work? a double-shift, you’ll be fuel source during high- The recommendation Nope. Fat burners usually in trouble in the long run, intensity training and the for hydration is to replace contain a stimulant that especially if the kidney is only fuel source during what you’ve lost during decreases the perception dehydrated. If you take anaerobic activity. training (a litre per kg), of fatigue during training, supplements but don’t A carbohydrate drink will but not many people so you lose fat because you drink enough water, the supply this high-energy weigh themselves after work hard, not because of kidneys must excrete an fuel to the muscles. every training session, the pill. Ephedrine works, excess without enough A repeated caffeine dosage so an alternative is to but it’s banned because water to help perform can make a difference if start drinking when you it gives athletes an unfair the task. According to you’re training for longer feel comfortable. Straw- advantage. It’s also bad for the US National Kidney than two hours because coloured urine indicates your health. According to Foundation, ‘dehydration it stays in the blood for adequate rehydration. Harvard Medical School, can also contribute to around this time. ‘just because a supplement the formation of kidney FAQS comes from natural stones and urinary tract Another thing that sources doesn’t make it infections, both of which can cause tiredness is GQ: Is creatine safe?  safe. Ephedra can cause can lead to kidney damage dehydration. So, drink Sportspeople use this if left untreated’. water. Adding some supplement to increase carbohydrates and muscle mass, boost electrolytes (salt intake) strength and enhance enhances fluid retention, training. It’s safe to use leading to better in appropriate dosages, rehydration. It’s not that and if you don’t have you need to replace the a renal problem because salt you lose when you whatever you excrete in excess happens via the AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 43

‘Pressure is a privilege’ Veteran and CrossFit pro Chandler Smith chats to GQ about fasted workouts and representation within his sport TA K E A LO O K AT T H E TO P qualified to talk to a large group on the other days, the first thing of people, and that’s what gets me I do is work to get breakfast started. C ROS S F I T AT H L E T E S O F T H E going every day.’ Or, I say work, but that’s a gross exaggeration: I make a bagel and L A S T D OZEN YE ARS, and it’s GQ recently caught up with eggs. Then the next thing I eat will hard not to notice that white men the Puma-sponsored athlete to be a carbohydrate source during the have swept every CrossFit Games learn more about what he eats middle of my first workout session. podium. Chandler Smith, a US in a typical day (or maybe more Army veteran and Black athlete, of what he doesn’t eat), just how GQ: How long is your wants to change that. He placed much goes into performing at this first workout? sixth at the 2020 CrossFit Games high level and his go-to sneaker CS: Usually from 9am to 11am (an effort that included a 280kg for almost every workout. or 11:30am, during which I’ll have deadlift) and is now working either a carbohydrate powder or with the sought-after coach Ben GQ: How do you usually start apple sauce to keep the energy Bergeron to take his already- your mornings? levels up and myself fueled for the intense training to the next level. Chandler Smith: Most days, afternoon session. After that, I’ll I’m up at 7:30am. The exceptions shake up some protein powder or ‘Being a competitive athlete for that are on Tuesdays and have some biltong. in this space is very important to Thursdays. I’ll wake up at 6:45am me,’ he said. ‘I recognise that if because I go swimming in the GQ: Will you eat lunch I wasn’t doing it, then there might morningson those days. I’ll do between the two? not be a voice for promoting those swimming sessions fasted, but diversity, equity, and inclusion within CrossFit. I’m uniquely

SPORT | PROFILE PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF CHANDLER SMITH CS: Lunch changes between ‘I recognise that a row. So I’ve stopped with that. feel to put all your energy ground beef, rice, brussels sprouts, if I wasn’t doing it Instead of using a lot of butter in my into CrossFit as a career? chicken and potatoes with mixed then there might cooking, I’ll use a spray of olive oil or CS: There’s a huge lifestyle change. frozen veggies – not a lot of variety, not be a voice another alternative. I’ll have a bagel All I’ve known in my adult life is the but enough to keep me interested. for promoting instead of a muffin. I don’t think I’ve army. I graduated from high school, diversity, equity completely changed everything, but went to the United States Military Once I’m home from the second and inclusion I do believe that everything when Academy, and then spent 10 years training session, I’ll look for more within CrossFit’ practised can be improved upon. in the army or doing army-related carbs, really whatever’s around work. The norms and lifestyle you the house. Last week it was mango with what you put in your GQ: What’s the difference live within the organisation are sorbet. I know this makes me sound body – which isn’t surprising between the two training very different from the ‘real world’. boring, but then dinner is anything considering your physique. sessions you do? In my life, I have five controllables: I didn’t have for lunch. I make a lot CS: The funny part is that I didn’t CS: Within CrossFit, we’re asked to sleep, recovery, nutrition, training of salmon and rice. I also have focus on my nutrition before do combinations of movements or and mindset. I’ve never had full a chicken burger recipe that’s great. moving to Boston. I came here to exercises that come from what can control of them before because of visit in the summer of 2020 and broadly be defined as three different my service. Now that I do, I have the GQ: Any dessert trained with a group of athletes. areas: monostructural, weight opportunity to maximise my inputs preferences? During that time, I was, like, man, lifting, and gymnastics work. So the and outputs. CS: It’s usually yoghurt before bed. this is the healthiest I’ve eaten in morning session usually focuses a good long while. And everyone on improving those modalities in GQ: Is it a lot of pressure GQ: Barely counts! It sounds around me was pretty surprised that isolation, and each session involves to be one of the few men of like you’re quite diligent I was a pro athlete but not focused multiple workouts. colour competing at on my diet. Before, I was eating a this level? lot of fast food, which in terms of The afternoon session is what CS: I could be viewed as a negative, kilojoules, I was able to justify. I think most people typically but one of my favourite things I’ve I remember there was a time I consider ‘CrossFit’– the breathing been saying out here is, ‘pressure is bought three litres of Ben and Jerry’s super-hard, ending up on your back a privilege’. You have to do the best because they were half price at the and being dramatic, all that stuff. with what you have. supermarket, and my roommate was, like, ‘that’s just not going to GQ: If you had to pick one GQ: Where does your mind fly anymore.’ shoe to do all of that, what go when you’re pushing your are you reaching for? limits physically? GQ: How does it feel to be CS: It’s the Puma Fuse. The soles CS: Firstly, I think that I gain eating better now? are a little softer than what I’ve strength from these things – and CS: It’s good. I wrestled when had in the past. I can do a lot that I’ve done way worse. In I was younger and that definitely more running workouts in them training, you push yourself breeds a bad relationship with food. without experiencing foot pain super hard so that in competition, I didn’t ever want to be someone but can still lift in them too. there isn’t anything that you who diets again, after all the haven’t seen before. I have an weight-cutting. But, I realised that GQ: Now that you’ve retired extremely high threshold for what being a professional means that it’s from the army, how does it my body is capable of handling. something that you’re focused on So as long as I remember that no 24/7. That includes what you put CHANDLER SMITH one’s actively trying to hurt me, into your body. So here I am, newly which has been the case in other focused on that. CrossFit athlete situations, then it can’t be that @blacksmifff bad. Another thing that comes GQ: What are some other to mind is how privileged I am small changes you’ve to be able to represent many made since you’ve been communities. There aren’t a lot eating healthy? of African Americans and other CS: Something that’s been huge people of colour in CrossFit. for me is not having juice or cool There are also not a lot of veterans drinks around. I didn’t necessarily right now. All these groups want drink cool drinks before, but I’d me to succeed. So the best thing have them fairly regularly. And I can do is honour what they’ve orange juice? Man, having orange taught me. By expressing my juice is like eating eight oranges in fitness at the highest level, I’m representing them and working hard to share their stories, as well as the lessons I’ve learnt along the way. – EMILY ABBATE AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 45

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THE BUSINESS OF Navigating the music industry can be challenging. From record labels to ownership of music and making money, we shed light on what constitutes the business of music Words by MOST MUSICAL ARTISTS Shannon Manuel will tell you entering the music industry isn’t for the faint-hearted. With competition in the industry at an all-time high, carving your space takes hard work, thick skin and a high level of understanding of the various parts of the music industry and being an artist. » AUGUST 2022 | GQ.CO.ZA 47

Record label vs. GQ: When should an with data, make improvements independent artist consider signing to their strategies, and because artist with a label? they’re independent, labels MC: Ideally when it comes don’t need to develop artists as knocking on their door. I say they used to. But thanks to the this because record labels internet, record labels can now are a business. Many people source creatives doing the above chase record labels, but well. And use their muscle to I feel you’re always in a amplify what’s already there. better position if the record label is chasing you because GQ: What are the pros you can negotiate and cons of joining a finer deal. If reversed and a record label? you have to chase the record MC: With a record label, label, it may offer you a deal you work with a team of where you have very little experienced music industry leverage to negotiate and experts who promote, market benefit from its terms. and develop your brand. They understand the dos and don’ts GQ: What do I need to of building artists in your genre know before signing and can help you grow your a record label deal? audience and support your MC: Since the internet, image. Record labels put labels aren’t actively resources behind promotional developing artists as much releases, videos and photo as they used to because it’s shoots to ensure your music given the power to creatives gets in front of the people you who can use it to build their want to hear it. They also ensure fan base and release music it’s up to mixing and mastering and other content. Artists standards. Through their can develop their brand and, networks and depending on how This is the biggest decision most new musicians face, says Munya Chanetsa, founder of Master Of The Industry (MOTI) and South African musician Musa Keys. GQ: What’s the purpose of a record label? MUNYA CHANETSA Munya Chanetsa: It’s imperative to distinguish that in the music industry there are record labels and publishers. You mustn’t confuse Founder, Master Of publishers with digital distributors or aggregators. Record labels deal The Industry (MOTI) with performing artists – those you see on television and the ones you hear on the radio – whereas publishers work with songwriters moti_africa and producers. ‘RECORD LABELS HAVE THE FINANCES, Record labels offer licensing deals, direct artist deals and, if you’re MUSCLE AND CHANNELS TO an established or big enough brand, you can explore a joint venture. PROMOTE MATERIAL PROPERLY’ Record labels offer distribution services, and provide marketing and promotional support that includes digital strategies and artist branding. They also have the finances, muscle and channels to promote material properly, and can provide financial support for video and photo shoots. They subsidise studio production costs, including mixing and mastering, which are often overlooked. They can also bridge the gap between local and international acts. 48 GQ.CO.ZA | AUGUST 2022