LISTEN: Rappers follow the beat to a better future

Koketso Matlaila (23) and Porai Moyo (17) are making a name for themselves despite their difficult circumstances in Windsor East.

Matlaila aka ‘City’ and Moyo aka ‘Vindict’ competed in a rap music competition held by Patrick Khayo, the owner of Windsor Community Charity Shop in November last year. The competition prize gave them the opportunity to record a rap album to be released on 14 February. It contains solo numbers as well as collaborations between the four rappers featured on the album. One rapper, ‘Kingwise’ had to drop out and a fourth member, Njabulo had school duties to attend to.

Matlaila and Moyo hope to advertise the album on social media and sell it out of their backpacks on the streets of Windsor East. Matlaila, who won first place, said that he gave his R1 000 prize money to his family. “I was bullied when I was little. They did not believe in me. I want to show people that you can make something out of nothing,” said Matlaila.

Moyo, who is a pupil at Roosevelt High School, came second and won R500. “My mom sings in a choir and my dad plays instruments. They are very supportive, but want me to focus on my school work first,” said Moyo. He further explained that people see Windsor East as “that place with the drugs”, but he wants to show them the talented side of the community. “There is such a stigma regarding Windsor, but with our music we can uplift the people of Windsor as it uplifted us,” said Moyo.

“Do not fear your talents, it can take you places you’ve never been,” said Matlaila in a rapping manner. Matlaila is a second-year animation student at the Boston Media House in Sandton, but had to drop out before starting his third year, due to financial restraints. “I want to further my music career and inspire young people to stand for their dreams.” Moyo concluded that he wants to rap on TV.

Details: Windsor Community Charity Shop, 084 258 6422.

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