Kgomotso Mokgatlhe aka SubVerse / Rapper
How did you find your way into the rap game?
Growing up in the ‘90s, it was almost impossible escaping the influence of Hip Hop culture. My brother kept a steady supply of TDKs and recorded music videos as well. That’s what really built the foundation of my love for the rap game. From then, the early South African Hip Hop scene is what convinced me that it could really be done and I started writing raps of my own.
O Vaya Le Mang…How has the single being received so far?
The track has received quite a lotta love and we don’t expect that to slow down now that the video is out (https://youtu.be/HG5vTXzyQ2A)!! I’m mad excited about the video release and making sure everybody sees it!
You’ll be releasing your second album since 2013, how much work was put into it?
The work is still happening and I’m actually in studio at the moment putting tracks down. I’ve got some special tracks lined up and the style and theme is different from anything I’ve put out before!
Do you have a favourite track on The Take Off album?
It’s way too early to pick a favourite. I can never single out one track but there are a few collaborations up my sleeve that I’m secretly going crazy over!
Tswellopele…How did the album mould your career?
More than anything, Tswellopele showed me the power of will and perseverance. That we (PGP Music) were able to put out such a solid project together, shoot videos, sells CDs, set up gigs and perform – to do all of that independently is an amazing feature. That will forever be a source of inspiration for me. Also, the response that we got was an indication to me that we’re doing something right. There were a lot of lessons that we learnt in the artistic and business sense…I could go on for a while!
What inspires your lyrics?
Experiences and observations. It could be something as simple as something I see or read, or a memory. There’s way too many sources of inspiration!
Motswako, what does it mean to you?
Motswako is the power of expressing yourself on your own terms! It’s powerful stuff if you think about the achievements that have been clocked in the name of Motswako. And I truly believe we ain’t seen nothing yet!
Maintaining consistency in the industry, how do you plan to do that?
I think maintaining consistency is purely a matter of trusting one’s talent and skill. There’s way too many trends and overnight buzzes to try keep up with. If you know what the end goal is, consistency shouldn’t be a fear-driven thing.
Food or FIFA?
I’m tempted to say FIFA…but this completely depends on the time of day, hahaha!
If you weren’t in the Hip-Hop game what would you be doing with your life?
I’d still be in the music scene in some other role. I’m way too passionate about music to imagine myself not involved in one way or another. That and sports.
Follow SubVerse!
Instagram: Subvwarusty
Twitter: @SubVwaRusty
Facebook: SubVerse
Soundcloud: SubVerse
YouTube: SubVerse
–Bridgette Makhela
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