Tank The Rockstar on family and Born Into Fame

Born Into Fame is a Showmax Original reality show that puts the spotlight on the children of famous parents. It is an honest look at how their unique upbringing affected their lives - both the challenges and advantages their parents’ fame has brought with it. 

The cast includes AJ Mafokate and Owami Mafokate, who are both Arthur Mafokate’s children; Phila Madlingozi, the son of Ringo Madlingozi; Robbie Malinga Jr, the son of the late Robbie Malinga; Shamiso Mosaka, Azania Mosaka’s daughter; and the man of the moment, Tank The Rockstar, who is DJ Tira’s son. 

Watch the trailer for Born Into Fame

We recently caught up with Tank, who gave us the tea on the show, being born into fame, and so much more. 

How would you describe being born into fame?

I would describe being born into fame as something that is positive. There is a lot that comes with it and it can be a cheat code to get the things you want. Like everything else, it has its challenges, but at this point in my life, I am used to it. 

What are some of the pressures of being born into fame?

There are a lot of pressures. Because I am a musician and my dad is also a musician, most people expect me to be on point all the time, not realising that I am just figuring myself and my sound out. I am still trying to build my career and it is a work in progress. People expect perfection but that is not how life is. 

How has watching the show been for you?

Watching the show has been a lot of fun. It has been really dope and I get a lot of people who interact with me because of the show, so overall, it has been very cool. There are times when I see things I do not like but it is what it is.

When you have kids, they’ll be born into fame. What lessons are you going to impart to them that you learned from your famous dad?

I am going to teach my kids the importance of education. They need to know that school is the basis of everything, and I will be there to guide them throughout the journey. 

What is the best and worst thing about being DJ Tira’s son?

The best thing about being DJ Tira’s son is that I can get whatever I want, wherever I go. There are perks that are there for me - my dad has worked so hard and that affords me a certain lifestyle and access to things. 

The worst thing about having a famous dad is that he is busy all the time, so I don’t get to spend a lot of time with him - there is always a project that he is working on. Another thing that is not so great is that people just expect you to be like your dad; they do not give you a chance to be yourself.

Do you feel like you are living in your dad’s shadow?

I would not say I am living in his shadow but he is a larger-than-life character with a lot of personality.

How do you deal with the negative press surrounding your family?

I really do not pay attention to any of that stuff because if you dwell on something, it starts to affect you. 

How do you know if someone is into you or they are just clout chasing?

I can always tell when a girl is into me and not clout chasing. The way someone speaks to you gives it away. If the things they want to do are always things that will put them in the spotlight, then I know. 

Are you in contact with any of your cast members?

I am only in contact with Shamiso and Phila. I am not close to any of the other castmates and watching the show has made my decision easier because of the things that were done and said. 

Why should people keep watching the show?

People should keep watching to see how the story plays out. It only gets better as the show progresses - a lot of questions will be answered and some things will start to make more sense. 

Join the conversation: #BornIntoFame