Many would argue that hip-hop in South Africa is a dying genre. We’ve seen a massive shift to amapiano and the growth of the local dance genre isn’t going unnoticed around the world. Even local hip-hop heavyweights like Cassper Nyovest have made a sonic shift to dabble in the genre. However, the local hip-hop space is still spewing out talent – and Kiddo CSA is a shining example of this.
The newcomer may have only dropped one single so far, but he is proof that there is still a massive space for hip-hop here in South Africa. The young star has a flow unlike anything we’ve seen in recent months and is able to freestyle like a champ.
He signed to major label Warner Music South Africa late last year and subsequently dropped his official debut single ‘Haibo’. The track is charting on stations like Metro FM and is certainly making a splash around the country. Critics have praised the young rapper’s delivery, writing and rapping skills and is fast making a name for himself within the space.
Kiddo CSA has confirmed that he is working on an EP that he plans on dropping in the next few months and, as his star continues to shine, we get up close and personal with the next big thing in local hip-hop.
‘Haibo’ is your big debut! Tell us a bit about the inspiration behind the song?
The inspiration behind my debut single comes from the sudden surprise of my dreams coming true and everything happening at such a perfect time. It’s inspired by the South African expression ‘Haibo’ – something surprising or sudden to hear. Right now my life is changing in all aspects and hence there’s a repetitive chant to express my current feelings. It’s a vibe and you feel it when listening to the song. The verses explain the struggles I’ve faced before getting to this point. It’ll always be a reminder for me to keep working harder and to get in alignment with my higher self. I’ve been in the mud before but I’m never going back.
A little bird told us the song was written in one day while you were in the studio. Can you share a little more about that?
Yes! Most of my music is made on the spot or in a matter of days. I enjoy channelling my feelings at the same time as I come up with the lyrics and that’s exactly what happened with we recorded ‘Haibo’.
The music video is so great! We love that you don’t take yourself too seriously in the clip. Was this a calculated move?
Absolutely – and it’s something you can expect with most of my music videos. I love bringing out different sides of me and showing off who I really am through my art and I plan on doing that whether it’s through music, acting or filming.
Was this your first time shooting a music video?
I’ve filmed a couple of videos beforehand, but nothing heavy as ‘Haibo’. It took us the whole day to film and I enjoyed every second of it. It’s really crazy how everything came about and it was a really dope experience.
You recently inked a deal with Warner Music South Africa. What attracted you to this label in particular?
The team, the agreement and what is best for the business side of my career. It’s the ingredient that’s been missing and we locked in now. I am really excited about my journey with Warner Music.
What’s the biggest lesson the team Warner Music has taught you about the music industry?
I’ve learnt a lot regarding the business side of the music industry. They reminded me that it’s important to take care of your brand and grow it the right way – and have the right team behind you.
You previously mentioned that your goal is to connect with people through music. Why is this something so important to you?
I don’t like speaking too much about my emotions and I let everything play out through my music and the way I articulate my raps. For me, that’s the most therapy I would ever get. Rapping is a healing process and I know there are other people just like me out there and connecting with them is so great. That is something to boast about, you know? I am proud to give people this therapy through my music. It’s special.
You’ve been teasing new music on social media. Give us a bit of what we can expect from your new music this year.
I’m so excited about this year and what is to come. Musically, I’m giving people elements and vibes they haven’t heard from me before. I will be working with more artists and I’ve been working hard on this every day. I can’t wait for y’all to hear what I got going on right now.
Watch the ‘Haibo’ music video below and read more music news here.
