Dr. Bone has certainly been making waves throughout the local entertainment industry. His smash hit ‘Noma Benga Khuluma’ features the late iNdidane and has taken radio by storm. He has also just dropped his debut album ‘Lindelani’ which has been flying off the shelves. This week, I sit down with the star and chat about his musical journey, the single and what the future holds.
How did your musical journey begin?
It all began back in 2005 when I lost my dad. I was in a very dark space and needed something to keep my mind busy. I had so many questions but no answers so I took my frustrations out on paper. From there, the pen and paper became my closest friends. Before I knew it, I was in the studio recording.
I’m digging your new single ‘Noma Benga Khuluma’. What inspired the song?
Well, iNdidane is my idol. Ever since I saw him perform back in 2012, I was blown away. His music had so much meaning and I could relate to his story. In the townships there are moments of negativity when one is trying to better their lives. So, I sat down with my Producer Nkocy and we came up with something unique – something that we could feature iNdidane on. Three days later I had the beat but I couldn’t get hold of iNdidane. So, I took it upon myself to write the hook, record it and send it to the guys that work with him.
What do you think it is about the song that stands out?
It’s how we managed to fuse two genres and make it sound as one. The sound is different from what we hear almost every day on our radio stations. Secondly, I’m the first rapper to ever work with this legend.
What’s the one lesson iNdidane taught you that you will carry with you forever?
Umuntu Ngumunto Ngabantu. Respect people. Always be a people’s person and you will go far in life. Be grateful and always pray to God and your ancestors. Be true to yourself for people connect easily with the truth.
Which track on the album means the most to you?
From the intro till the last track, I gave this album my all. I poured my heart out. Every track on Lindelani has a special place in my heart but ‘Noma Benga Khuluma’ is special in so many ways. I’m a kid from Lindelani. A township where dreams are hardly realized. People around you saying it’s not possible. Working with my idol was beyond realizing my dream. From his sick bed, he drove to Durban just to work with me.
Which local and international acts inspire you?
Locally, it’s obviously Mtshengiseni iNdidane Gcwensa. When I was down and out, ready to give up, his music lifted me. It gave me hope. It gave me meaning. If it wasn’t for his music, I believe I would have dropped the mic long ago. Internationally, it’s TuPac Shakur. His music played a big role in fighting for racism in the US and across the world. When you look up to a person, at times you choose what to take from him or her. I learned a lot from him especially with regards to his poetic skills and the ability to convey a message in song.
What do the next few months have in store for you?
I just want to keep running my race. I want to travel the world and represent my country and Africa at large. I want to push harder. Promote my album. Grow my brand. Keep winning people’s hearts. I believe I am going to be the biggest hip-hop artist to ever come out of South Africa. Watch this space.
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