‘Gift of the gab’ was key to entertaining
Hip-hop recording artist and TV presenter ProVerb talks to Loni Prinsloo about singing for his supper
What did you want to be when growing up? I really wanted to become a medical doctor, like my father. Unfortunately, I didn’t quite have what it takes, but I’m grateful that I was able to find my calling in life, which is entertainment, and I’m so fulfilled doing what I love. I can’t imagine how my life would’ve turned out had I pursued medicine.
What did your childhood teach you about money?
My mom was and still is meticulous with money. She always paid her accounts and my fees in time and in full where possible, and I attribute my financial behaviour now to my mom and the lessons she taught me. I was in boarding school from Standard 3, and I used to get pocket money and I had to spend it wisely to last me the whole term. This taught me the importance of saving and using money wisely.
What was your first job? How did you manage?
I studied sound engineering at Allenby, now Damelin, and excelled at it to the point where I was offered a part-time job lecturing the part-time sound engineering students. I was later employed as a student adviser, and this was my first full-time job.
What events steered you into the career you have today?
I always had the gift of the gab, and when my mom suggested I try sound engineering after failing IT several times, I got into the entertainment industry, first as a technical producer for DJ Fresh back in 2003, with my first TV gig the same year at Channel O. Around the same time, I was entering battles [competitions] and rap contests and honing my skills. In 2004, I got a recording deal, and the rest, as they say, is history.
What do you most enjoy
about your career today?
I enjoy the fulfilment I get from what I do and that I’m able to touch lives in the process. I try to keep myself motivated and consciously try and motivate others as well. I make positive and uplifting music, and I host and co-produce a TV show that seeks to unearth raw talent.
What are you currently up to in terms of your career?
I host and co-produce SA Idols, I’m a hip-hop recording artist and I’ve just celebrated 10 years in the industry and released my fifth studio album, The Read Tape . I’ve diversified my portfolio and also explored some business ventures outside the music industry, including property, transport, digital marketing and IT — coincidentally. I’m a speaker, an MC and a proud brand ambassador for Volvo Car South Africa, the Banking Association of South Africa, the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, a patron for the Field Band Foundation, the Starfish Foundation and Domino’s Pizza South Africa. This entails hosting store openings, appearances, above- and belowthe-line marketing.
Do you have any role models in business and life generally?
I don’t really subscribe to the concept . . . I prefer to learn all I can from as many people as I can. Everyone knows something I don’t, and every interaction is an opportunity to learn.
If you hit the jackpot, what would you do with the money?
I would invest in long-, mediumand short-term investments and set up a trust so my kids are taken care of. I would also try to set up my folks and set up a foundation to help develop and empower young people. Do you have any money weaknesses or special indulgences?
My family and I do enjoy travel and I don’t mind spending on quality time.
What has been your best investment?
My best investment to date has been on myself, on developing myself and growing the brand. What advice would you give younger people when choosing what they want to do in life? Do what you enjoy and what you’re passionate about — that way you’ll succeed at it.
What are some of your career plans?
To continue growing my brand, diversifying my portfolio and exploring new and exciting ventures, all while solidifying my corporate relationships.
My best investment has been on myself, on developing myself, growing the brand