#ATYPICALINTERVIEW: SAMEER NAIK

RISING transformative hip hop and

R&B artist Namakau Star, whose real name is Rhema Stephanie Namakau Socika, recently released her debut EP, Landing, through indie label Paradise Sound System.

The seven-track EP includes songs such as Seazn Luv, which shines the light on Star’s “sensuality in a carefree yet honest tone, expressing love and desire without shame or inhibitions”.

Dubbed the “Vibe Goddess” by her fans, the Cape Town-based artist infuses hip hop, R&B and Afrobeat to ensure each song appeals to the ears and the soul.

The 26-year-old artist was also recently selected as a jury member in the Searching For Paradise competition, supported by Paradise Sound System, Women In Music SA, and Trace Africa.

The first song you ever learnt all the lyrics to was … ?

Mary Mary’s Shackles.

Your favourite item of clothing in your closet currently is … ?

My purple bomber jacket.

If you weren’t a musician, what would you be … ?

A copywriter.

How would you like to be remembered?

As a kind and vibrant soul who impacted the youth.

Your favourite restaurant in

South Africa is … ?

Cocoa Cha Chi, it’s just so cute.

You are able to spend the day with any musician in the world, learning from him or her. Who do you choose and why?

Missy Elliot, for her wisdom and her takes on mental health. I would also love to know why she bowed out of the public eye so soon, her approach to music and style has always intrigued me.

A song that defines your life currently is … ?

Breathe by Namakau Star ft Phola, Phola.

Your celebrity crush growing up was… ?

Rihanna.

You’re stuck in a lift with President Cyril Ramaphosa. What’s the first thing you ask him … ?

What’s your take on mental health and how it affects black youth?

What is your definition of love? Love is kind, patient and expansive. It allows people to be the best versions of themselves, but even when they aren’t, it allows them the grace and the space to grow. Love is accountable, love is discipline.