Rapper eyeing a hit with single

Poet Mkiva features on Swagga’s ‘One Day’

UP-AND-coming rapper “Swagga” released his latest single One Day featuring world-renowned praise singer and poet Zolani Mkiva yesterday.

The East London-based rapper, who recently made his debut in the music industry as a solo artist, has been nominated for the best newcomer and best hip hop categories for the Eastern Cape Music Awards.

The awards, now in their second year, are taking place next Saturday at the Abbotsford Christian Centre.

“Swagga”, whose real name is Melvin Xesha, said his love for music dated back to when he joined his mother’s choir at the Christian Church Centre in Gugulethu, Cape Town.

By the age of 13, he had already made a name for himself as a local house DJ playing at various events around his community.

He stopped spinning discs to become a rapper and was part of a “crew” (rappers term for band) for many years before moving to East London about two years ago.

Since his move to the city, he has landed himself a recording deal with local company, Rare Breed Studios.

His first single under the label saw him get his first nomination last year at the Beat Magazine Awards for performance of the year.

“I didn’t think my solo career would pick up so quickly, but I am grateful for the label and the work they are doing to promote my music.”

Xesha said when he wrote his latest single, One Day, he had no idea that he would get an opportunity to work with Mkiva.

“When we did the song, my manager said it was okay but there was an element lacking in it.

“Little did I know that he would suggest that we have a great poet like Zolani to join us,” he said, adding that he had enjoyed working with Mkiva. “He is a cool guy and he had a lot of things to add to the song. I was impressed by him and I am glad I got the chance to work with him,” he said.

Rare Breed Studios owner Siphiwo Salakuphathwa said as a label they were trying to develop Eastern Cape artists. “It is important that while we groom these young artists they also get an opportunity to work with big names to prepare them for mainstream.

“It is unfortunate that our artists always have to go to bigger cities for things to start happening for them. We hope to change that for our talented musicians,” he said.

Xesha has also shared the stage the likes of Fifi Cooper, MXO, Amanda Black, Sliq Angel, Lira, Mobi Dixon and DJ Bongz. He said he was looking forward to the release of his debut album later this year. — poliswap@dispatch.co.za