SAM DEEP has always worn his heart on his sleeve.
But life had other plans for the Soweto-born amapiano producer, and he's not complaining one bit.
The hitmaker, whose real name is Samukelo Rorisang Mavuso (25), reflected on his journey with gratitude and honesty, saying his first major award wins were unforgettable milestones that represent years of hard work.
Sam, who is recognised for hits like iMpumelelo and Shela, won two Metro FM Music Awards this year and he's over the moon.
He said the awards were more than trophies. They're proof that consistency and self-belief pay off.
"I always kind of express how I feel. It's so amazing, man, and it's my first time winning these, but shout out to my fans, my family, everybody. Everybody who's been supporting me.
"I'm truly grateful. I wouldn't have done this alone, so thank you to you guys too," he said.
Deep said the awards show that if you keep working hard, you'll definitely see the results.
"So, whatever you are, if you're an artist or whatever you're doing in life in general, just do what you have to do, don't seek validation, be yourself and always give your best," he said.
He said that sometimes being in the industry can be demotivating, but music is always his escape.
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"Those moments, I mean, they do come for all of us.
"I'm sure I'm not alone, but whenever I feel like that, I just hit the studio, man, because I guess music just expresses how I feel, you know? So, that's how my songs are made. At that specific time, how I'm feeling, it can be a sad song, it can be a happy song, but whenever I'm feeling down, I just hit the studio or I listen to music in general," he said.
Sam said if he could go back and talk to his younger self, he'd tell him how unpredictable life is.
"I'm supposed to be a soccer star by now. Then, life happened, I ended up doing music, you know. In whatever you do, give it your all, you know, continue doing your best.
"Don't limit yourself. Whatever you do, if you change today or tomorrow, just give it your all because you never know," he said.
He said he used to play for Orlando Pirates Academy.
"Then, I don't know what happened, but yeah, I also loved music, so I don't know what happened. Then, I guess, life happened.
"I went to high school, met different people, I guess, that also contributed.
"I really thought I'd be in the soccer field playing for one of the big teams in Mzansi and internationally too, but now I'm making music and flourishing as well," he said.
