The award- winning, Loyiso Gijana - known by his stage name Lloyiso, has big plans for his music career.

Lloyiso first rose to fame after impressing judges and viewers with his exceptional singing abilities on "Idols SA" as a teenager. Since then, he has established himself as a prominent artist both locally and internationally.

EP, Lloyiso, new music, seasons — Lloyiso, Image: Supplied

In 2021, he signed with Republic Records, a global record label, and in April 2022, he performed at Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz's wedding.

The 23-year-old is preparing for the release of his debut EP, 'Seasons'. The EP, which is currently available for pre-order, drops on March 31.

GQ had a chat with Lloyiso to discuss his debut EP and his next move.

GQ: How did you first get interested in music, and what was your earliest musical memory?

Lloyiso: My earliest memory was when I was around 12, singing at church. I had been given my first solo and when I finished performing, I could see the way I had moved the crowd.

GQ: Did being on Idols SA somehow prepare you for the music industry?

Lloyiso: Definitely. It showed me how the music industry works. More importantly, it taught me how to work under pressure.

GQ: What sources of inspiration did you draw upon when creating your latest EP "Seasons”?

Lloyiso: Lyrically, the project was inspired by my real life - either things I was going through while writing or by situations that had happened in the past. Fans are going to hear a lot of raw emotions because I’m speaking from the heart.

GQ: Can you explain how your artistic growth is reflected in the EP and share the reasons behind your decision to title it “Seasons”?

Lloyiso: I’ve never put out a body of work before so that in itself is a sign of growth and accomplishment. It’s called ‘Seasons’ because this EP is representative of all sides of me.

The title track ‘Seasons’ and ‘Where Do We Go (When We Need Love)’ are incredibly vulnerable, even sad I would say to an extent. But then there is ‘Give a Little Kindness’ which is all about self-love and feeling like anything is possible. As humans, we’re never just one thing. It’s important to celebrate every part of ourselves. That’s also a sign of my artistic growth - having the ability to admit that.

GQ: How was the experience of performing at Brooklyn Beckham and his wife Nicola Peltz’s wedding last year?

Lloyiso: It was a beautiful experience being a part of their special day. I wish them both happiness and a long life of love together.

GQ: Which local artist would you like to collaborate with?

Lloyiso: Black Coffee. I love how even though he’s an internationally recognized producer, he still represents South Africa in everything he does.

EP, Lloyiso, new music, seasons — Lloyiso, Image: Supplied

GQ: You signed with International record label, Republic Records in 2021. How did that happen?

Lloyiso: I was making music in my bedroom and posting on social media a lot. That’s how I was discovered.

GQ: Last year you were nominated at the All Africa Awards for Songwriter of the Year. How do you come up with ideas to create songs?

Lloyiso: I write from my heart and about what I know. The best music is created that way.

GQ: What more can your fans expect from you in 2023?

Lloyiso: Lots more music, hopefully a tour and definitely new merch coming soon.