Hard working scholar secures record deal
Despite him still being at school, 17-year-old Tshepo Mahase has already secured a contract as a hip-hip artist.
For Tshepo, a Gr. 11 learner of Letsatsing Combined School in Driefontein, this success has not come easy. While growing up in rural Qwa-Qwa, he did not do nearly as well as his ‘super-smart’ twin sister for many years.
At one time, the teachers even advised his parents to send him to a school for learners with special needs.
But his mother believed in him and realised that most of his talents lay in other fields. She encouraged him to persevere.
‘These things hit me hard emotionally,’ he says.
Struggles like this only motivated Tshepo never to give up.
He developed his musical talent, which also gave him the means to express his emotions.
He has been making hip-hop music since 2014 and, through consistent hard work, is now even among the top ten academic achievers in his grade. His diligence has also caught the attention of his English teacher, Mr Siyabonga Ndubeki, who acts as his manager.
While most others of his age are just trying to cope with school, Tshepo has already released two albums.
The second one is the ten-track Corrupted Blues that he released on 29 October.
Earlier this year, Mahlalela Entertainment also signed him up to record under their banner. Tshepo only accepted this offer after making it quite clear that it could not interfere with his schoolwork.
Tshepo still dreams of becoming an entrepreneur because he wants to employ other talented people who may not otherwise get the opportunity.
However, he says, he is intent on becoming a lawyer. Through his music, he plans to pay for his own studies and those of his sister.
He is extremely grateful for the support of the members of his family.
People who are interested in Tshepo’s music can contact him on his Facebook page Breezy G. S.A or Instagram at Tshepo Mahase 250.
