Crystal Park resident Johakim Badhuza has proven there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
He shared his story about being homeless to becoming a successful rapper.
Also known as Spesh Maan, his motivation to make a success of his life derives from once feeling useless.
“I have slept in the graveyard, eaten from a dustbin, applied for a nanny job and held a board on the side of the freeway asking for a job, all to survive as I had nothing to eat and nowhere to stay,” Johakim said.
“I lost my two blood brothers right in front of my eyes and never felt so useless in my life, but I kept on praying and pushing hard and I never gave up on my career.”
He grew up in a village called Ha-Khomoatsoana Pitseng Leribe, Lesotho.
“I am the founder of the Sparadunah language, which sounds similar to Portuguese and Esperanto languages,” he explained.
“I fell in love with the arts, and then I started taking part in school activities. I was well known as a dancer in my hood and that led me to the music industry.”
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His first record, D’KOKOTANE Musik, was released in 2012 and he drew inspiration from Ntate Lebohang Lets’ohla.
“As for hip hop music, Chereh Sputswe, Papazee and HHP were my icons,” he added.
“I write my own music though it requires skills, like the proper use of words and flowing content delivery. If I could, I would love to be on stage with KidX or Costa Titch as I love their music.”
The artist said Covid-19 delayed his journey to success due to its effect on the music industry.
“The virus outbreak shook the music industry. There were not enough gigs for artists and outdoor events were cancelled,” Johakim explained.
But a delay is not a denial for Johakim.
“I am already in discussions with one of the artists, KidX, about collaborating and am going to start shooting a music video soon,” he concluded.
