Yashna International's 'Yano Groove II': a bold celebration of South African identity and 'private school amapiano'

“Neo and I wanted to showcase our growth as artists in our skill and ability to adapt to an ever-changing sound,” said Durban-based singer and songwriter Yashna International, reflecting on her latest EP, “Yano Groove II”.

Since her first “Yano Groove” project, the amapiano genre itself has developed, and International has evolved alongside it. She described the new project as “private school amapiano”, a deliberate step up from her earlier work, both in imagery and music. 

She hopes listeners will connect deeply with the stories told on “Yano Groove II”.

“I want people to relate to the narratives, to feel comfort in knowing that we are all experiencing life in similar ways. This project speaks on love, heartbreak, finding oneself and choosing happiness regardless of our circumstances.”

Her lyrics reflect a period of intense self-introspection, allowing her artistry to mirror her personal growth.

Her journey of self-discovery is rooted in her appreciation of her South African identity. “Throughout my life, I was convinced that God had made a mistake by placing me in South Africa. I even adopted an American accent, lol, so cringe! Growing up, I was heavily influenced by Western culture through TV."

"But as I got older, I started to appreciate the richness of South African culture, from the food to the immaculate vibes our country has to offer. Now I realise God placed me exactly where I was meant to be. He made no mistake. I love where I am from.”

This pride is evident throughout “Yano Groove II”, which features an array of local artists and an unmistakable South African essence.

A key figure in shaping the EP is Neo Ndawo, who serves as producer, engineer, songwriter, rapper, singer and an overall music visionary.

“Neo definitely took the reins for this project. He listens to a lot of music, so he knew exactly what would work in the current amapiano climate."

"We wrote many of the songs together and spent almost a year curating the project to reflect our growth as songwriters, artists and producers. The quality of music on this project is some of the best work I have ever released.”

Additional production contributions came from Biggy Lass and NatiQ106, who helped craft two standout tracks. Featured vocalists Mthunzi, Dearson, NATASHA MD, Born Kxng and Syanda Mculo added depth and texture to the EP, further shaping its distinctive sound.

“Yano Groove II” dropped in November and consists of eight carefully curated tracks. Each song is designed to offer a window into International’s artistic journey while embracing the spirit and culture of South African music.

Since entering the music scene in late 2016, International has established herself as a versatile performer, seamlessly blending music, dance and drama.

Her visuals and performances have consistently captured audiences, earning regular rotation on South African music television channels including MTV Base, Trace Urban, Trace Africa and Channel O.

Through her music, she continues to assert herself as an all-rounder in the industry, and “Yano Groove II” marks another bold step in her ongoing evolution.