The post Zakwe Sparks Debate On Kwaito Artists As Potential Rappers appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
Zakwe Sparks Debate On Kwaito Artists As Potential Rappers. Renowned rapper Zakwe recently shared an interesting thought on social media, suggesting that some Kwaito artists could have made incredible rappers based on their rhyme schemes.
Taking to social media, Zakwe said; “some kwaito artists could make really dope rappers, if uzwa ama rhyme scheme abo… njengo?” (which translates to “if you hear their rhyme schemes… like who?”). This has ignited a conversation among fans about the lyrical depth of Kwaito legends and their influence on South African hip-hop.
Kwaito is the genre that defined the streets of South Africa in the late 90s and early 2000s and has always had strong lyrical storytelling, making it a close cousin to hip-hop. With a laid-back but hard-hitting flow, many Kwaito pioneers crafted rhymes that resonated with everyday struggles, township life, and the hustle to success—elements that are also key in rap music.
Several Kwaito artists have showcased lyrical prowess that could have easily translated into rap careers. Legends such as Zola 7, with his raw and poetic delivery, and Mandla “Spikiri” Mofokeng, known for his intricate wordplay, have always carried a hip-hop essence in their music. Others like Trompies and Mdu Masilela had a signature flow that, if placed on a boom-bap beat, could have rivalled some of the best rappers in the game.
One artist who successfully crossed between Kwaito and hip-hop is PRO (ProKid), who often incorporated Kwaito elements in his rap music, making his style uniquely South African. Following Zakwe’s post, fans have begun naming their picks for Kwaito artists who could have excelled as rappers. Names like Zola 7, Brickz, Pitch Black, Mapaputsi, General, Zombo and Magesh have been thrown into the mix, with many agreeing that the rhythmic and lyrical nature of Kwaito made it a breeding ground for rap talent.
With Kwaito’s DNA still evident in today’s SA hip-hop, the genre’s legacy continues to inspire a new wave of artists blending rap with township-rooted sounds. Zakwe’s statement is not just a reflection on the past but a challenge to reimagine the future of South African hip-hop.
The post Zakwe Sparks Debate On Kwaito Artists As Potential Rappers appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
The post Zakwe Sparks Debate On Kwaito Artists As Potential Rappers appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
Zakwe Sparks Debate On Kwaito Artists As Potential Rappers. Renowned rapper Zakwe recently shared an interesting thought on social media, suggesting that some Kwaito artists could have made incredible rappers based on their rhyme schemes. Zakwe Sparks Debate On Kwaito Artists As Potential Rappers Taking to social media, Zakwe said; “some kwaito artists could make …
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