Hip-hop has become a popular form of expression among the South African youth. With the likes of AKA, Cassper Nyovest and Kwesta leading the charge and inspiring the current generation, the genre is showing no signs of slowing down.
Hip-hop trio Xclusive Music is part of the growing movement looking to make a difference through music.
Qiniso ‘Virus Rap’ Dlamini, Sifiso ‘B Kay’ Ngqulunga and Mlungisi ‘Fist’ Mthembu want to address social ills through their music as well as become role models for the youth. Ngqulunga is the youngest in the group at 17 years old and has been working hard on his writing for four years.
“My dream is to become an international star. And to do that, I have been uploading my songs on the Internet and trying to get my name out there. I want to show those my age that anything is possible with hard work despite my age,” he said.
To pursue his dream, Ngqulunga dropped out of school but he added that this is only a temporary decision.
“Due to financial circumstances I had to leave school but this does not mean that I will not finish my studies when the opportunity arises. Being on stage and seeing people enjoy our music, brings me satisfaction and the knowledge that my decision to leave school is not one I regret,” he said.
Mthembu is the second member as well as the engine that drives the group. Not only does he rap but also produces some of the group’s music. The 23-year-old has been a fan of hip-hop for seven years and is inspired by musician Emtee.
“He has a positive message and supports the community, that’s why I look up to him. It gives me hope that if we get support such as signing with a record label and getting sponsorship, we will make it as musicians,” he said.
His main purpose for dreaming of success is because he wants to make his mother proud and be able to support his family.
“If we believe in ourselves, we can make it. Our genre of hip-hop is trap music and that already separates us from other musicians. It is nice to create our own music, being in the studio is amazing,” he said.
Third member Dlamini is 21 years old and also dreams of being a musician. He is working just as hard as his friends to be successful and become a staple in the music industry.
Their manager Jackie Chiumia has been assisting the trio for a year and wants their talent to shine so they can become signed artists under a good record label.
“It has not been easy but we have a goal and we will work towards it. Xclusive Music is working on an EP that will showcase the talent we have and succeed as musicians,” he said.
For more information on Xclusive Music, contact Jackie on 073 6597 787 or jackievilla531@gmail.com
