Groove Cartel Presents: Leandra.Vert – The Lioness Lighting Up Amapiano

Leandra.Vert opens up Groove Cartel’s new season with a voice that is nothing short of mesmerizing. Her ability to paint vivid pictures with her lyrics tells stories of life, love, challenges, and possibilities. Raised in the Vaal and influenced by R&B greats like Sade, Ari Lennox, and SZA, Leandra.Vert’s unique style sets her apart in the Amapiano genre. With collaborations featuring top artists like Musakeys, Kabza De Small, and Maphorisa, her talent is undeniable.

In an insightful interview with AshMopedi, Leandra.Vert opened up about the inspiration behind her track “Angipholanga.” She explained that the song was born out of a period of emotional turmoil when she was struggling with the direction of her life and career. “I was really stressed out. I felt like things were not coming together. I would go to sessions, and nothing was happening for me at that point,” she shared. The track captures her state of mind during those difficult times, reflecting on how the struggles of being an artist can weigh heavily on one’s mental state.

Now, with the song released and receiving positive feedback, Leandra.Vert is in a much better place. “I’m in a happy state. I feel like things are slowly coming together. They’re not where I want them to be, but they’re getting there,” she said. Achieving her appearance on Groove Cartel was a significant milestone for her, ticking off a major item on her checklist.

Leandra.Vert also shared her musical journey, which began after she moved to Johannesburg post-schooling. She initially worked as a waitress before making friends in the music scene, leading her to start recording R&B tracks influenced by artists like Alina Baraz and SZA. Her big break came in 2022 when she was discovered by Musa Keys and transitioned into Amapiano, a genre where she has since made a significant impact.

Looking ahead, Leandra.Vert revealed that she has a new single and a full project set to drop soon. She’s excited about exploring a new sound that blends soulful Amapiano with Afro Tech. “I just want to be my own individual self. So that’s why I’m tapping into this sound,” she explained, hoping that her audience will embrace this fresh direction. The project, which is set to release in September, is described as deeply spiritual, reflecting her connection to African roots and emotions.

Before wrapping up, Ash asked about the inspiration behind her stage name, Leandra.Vert. She admitted that it was inspired by her love for Lil Uzi Vert, with “Leandra” meaning lioness and “Vert” symbolizing light. Together, her name embodies the fierce and luminous energy she brings to her music.

Leandra.Vert is not just a voice; she is a force in the Amapiano scene, bringing depth, emotion, and a unique blend of influences to her music. Her journey from the Vaal to the world stage is a testament to her talent and resilience. This Groove Cartel episode is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the evolution of South African music. Shot in the African wilderness of Sibani Lodge, we finally unveil the face behind the songs that have captured the hearts of many.