Rising star BlackTears talks production, new music, and hip hop
BlackTears is a name synonymous with innovation in the hip-hop space. Born Phogole Clifort Mankge, this music creative is based in Pretoria but carries the essence of his roots from Limpopo, Magnet Heights (Tshehlwaneng), where he was born in December 1997.
With a repertoire boasting collaborations with esteemed artists like PdotO, Loki, Bonafide, and Blaklez, BlackTears has firmly established himself in the South African music scene.
Reflecting on his upbringing, he shares, “Truly speaking, I had a tough upbringing, it always felt like people were working against me than with me. Pretoria has shown me love and appreciation in a way that Limpopo has never done. Nonetheless, love that hood and I will always represent it.”
His work includes a wide range and genres from afro-hip-hop, afro-pop, and underground rap to drill beats as well as Amapiano.
BlackTears’ collaborative spirit is evident in his diverse portfolio. From working with industry heavyweights like PdotO, Blaklez, and Loki, he seamlessly tailors his production to complement each artist’s unique style. Sharing his approach, he says, “I always take time and study the artist’s sound before I make the beats.”
“I’m not sure if I’ve ever told anyone this but I have been a PdotO fan since high school. A couple of years later I decided to hit broski up and told him he’s been my favourite since I got introduced to his sound and that I make beats. All I wanted was for him to hear the beats not knowing that he would love my production. No lie broski is a great person.”
“He gave my beats a chance and put me on, got me to work with Blaklez. I produced a song for them on the Lost Diamonds 2. Same with Loki I hit him up, and told him that I owed myself a collaboration with him, luckily he already knew the All My Life joint we connected and operated a freestyle joint with a video.”
One of BlackTears’ notable achievements is producing the hit song All My Life by Emtee & Ayanda Daweti, a track inspired by Nipsey Hussle’s Grinding All My Life. “Our version was more like a tribute song to Nip, Emtee wanted to honour the OG with a relatable and motivational song. I created the All My Life beat back in 2016,” he says.
“In 2020 I got invited to Emtee’s studio camp by Lolli Native, I was just helping out record some songs for the Logan album with Mosankie. Ayanda Daweti also got invited a week later, until one day when Emtee asked me to play him my beats and he picked the All My Life instrumental,” added BlackTears.
With his debut single Amabonus, featuring PdotO and Bula Bull, BlackTears delves into afro hip-hop, delivering a vibrant anthem that addresses societal issues with a blend of joy and introspection. As he gears up for his anticipated EP Crime of the Century, listeners can expect a fusion of trap vibes and afro-hip-hop elements, promising an immersive musical experience.
BlackTears’ recent collaboration with Bonafide Billi and Blow Lepara on Magnoso Mostofong is more than just an album. He says the release of the album is a symbol of triumph to him. “We worked on this album at the beginning of 2020 it was nothing short of a magical experience. The magic soon turned into a nightmare with the 2020 pandemic turning our lives upside down. It was damn near impossible to pick up the momentum of completing this project, let alone release it,” shares BlackTears.
“We completed the project this year, and here you have it. An offering from the soul. Thank you to the collective who prays with us and works with us. Congratulations on this independent release. Without the support of our partners, friends, and family, we literally wouldn’t have the strength to manifest. Thank you!”
Navigating between solo projects and collaborations, BlackTears finds harmony in his creative process. Whether he’s dedicating time to crafting beats or collaborating with fellow musicians, he approaches each endeavour with passion and dedication.
What’s next for BlackTears – as he continues to carve his path in the music industry, he leaves us with a tantalizing glimpse into the future. With his EP on the horizon and ongoing studio sessions with Bonafide Billi, the journey is far from over. With gratitude for his supporters, BlackTears extends a heartfelt shoutout to everyone championing his musical endeavours.
To stay updated about BlackTears’s releases follow him on X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube @BlackTears_SA.
