At just 18 years old, Percy Matimu Ramuhadi, better known as Young Pizy, is steadily carving a name for himself in South Africa's music industry. Hailing from the culturally rich and musically vibrant province of Limpopo, the young artist, singer, producer and DJ is proving that talent, resilience and authenticity can open doors far beyond local borders.
Born on 2 February 2006 in Thohoyandou's Maungani village and raised in Tshimbupfe Gabeni, Young Pizy's journey into music started not with a microphone but on the dancefloor. "My career began at the age of 13 as a dancer," he says. "I grew up in a family where they played music every day on big speakers. You know Tsongas – some say we are noisy people."
This early immersion in music, combined with the influence of his uncle, who was a DJ, laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong pursuit of sound. "He inspired me and taught me the basics of how to DJ. From there, I started learning how to produce and later began singing."
His home province of Limpopo remains central to his identity and creative inspiration. For Young Pizy, the rhythms of his roots are not just background noise – they are a blueprint. "Limpopo is like the rhythm of life. The traditional sounds, the energetic vibe, and the stories of our ancestors all blend together in my sound," he says. "It is like the baobab trees and the savannah plains are singing through me."
A sound all his own
Describing his music as "Afro-urban fusion with a touch of soul", Young Pizy combines catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics and genre-blending beats that reflect the intricacies of youth, love, identity and real-life experience. "I want my music to be a reminder that we are all struggling and all trying to find our way," he explains.
This authenticity has resonated deeply with a growing fan base, especially online. His recent instrumental track, Flash Back (To Vigro Deep), pays tribute to amapiano heavyweight Vigro Deep. "I used to listen to Vigro Deep's music years back and he inspired me a lot," he says. "So, I produced a track in his style and named it in his honour."
But not just homage tracks are drawing attention. Collaborations such as My Dali, with fellow artist Fistosvalley, and Naku Byela, featuring IG Lunar, showcase Young Pizy's versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles while staying true to his core.
"The collaboration with Fistosvalley came about organically. We have a similar vision and passion for creating unique sounds that blend our cultural heritage," he says. "Naku Byela was with IG Lunar – we connected through mutual friends in the industry and the energy just matched."
Cooking from the ground up
Despite his rising profile, Young Pizy is no stranger to challenges. Early in his career, access to studio time and equipment was scarce. "I used to work in other people's studios, and sometimes I could not produce or record because I did not have my own equipment," he recalls. "But I stayed positive. Whenever I got a chance, I made sure I cooked good music. Giving up was never an option."
He is now working on his first official project – the Xigaza EP – which will include songs across different genres. While he prefers to start with beats before lyrics, his writing process remains rooted in lived experience and raw emotion.
"The EP is coming very soon. I am also working on singles in other genres. There is a lot on the way," he says. In production, he is collaborating with a range of artists including Razie Kay, MetroBeatz RSA, MphoEl, SlenderGirl, MasterG, Geedy Low SA and Prefer Wise.
Asked where he would most like to perform, Young Pizy is quick to name home turf. "Phalaphala Royal Festival. It would be an honour," he says, adding that he would want to share the stage with Geedy Low SA.
Lessons and legacy
With each new release and performance, Young Pizy is redefining what is possible for young, rural artists. His message to aspiring musicians in Limpopo is simple, yet powerful: "Rising beyond limits requires a combination of passion, resilience and hard work."
His music, while full of bangers and energy, also carries a deeper purpose. "Beyond the beats, I hope people take away a sense of authenticity, vulnerability and relatability. I want my songs to inspire people to reflect on their own experiences and emotions. Music should make people feel seen."
As he prepares to launch Xigaza, Young Pizy is focused not only on making hits but also on building a lasting presence in the industry – one rooted in truth, culture and community.
For fans, the best is yet to come. "My first project is coming very soon," he says. "Be ready."