The new is now

GMP artist Blacksheep recently released a new video for his song Twamana and it is causing an uproar on YouTube. The video is very unique and a first of its kind in Namibia.

Talk to us about Twamana
Twamana talks about a walk and a part in life we are done with in our lives. A walk in life we do not want to repeat and the fact that we are starting a better chapter. It featured Ryda and AJ Fresh and was produced by the highly talented Zambian DJ Potpher.
Give us a description of each person involved
The first verse is done by ‘Eastside .65 Ryda’ who is from the north. R.Y.D.A. stands for Realise Your Dreams & Achieve. He grew up listening to hip-hop, gave it a try in Grade 8 and realised its working for him. He believes it is God’s great plan for him. On the verse he expresses himself following the words he got from Blacksheep “don’t hold back”, and he did just that on the song. AJ Fresh is a member of the musical group Fresh Family and on his verse he talks about a character that has a burning fire inside him that will stop at nothing.

Where was the video shot and what did you want to portray?
It was shot in Ongwediva on a soccer field by Maya Neto. I wanted the video to portray a Gothic feel and look to it, with a story line of a girl trying to get to set the dinner table with all sorts of weird obstacles in her way such as fire and the spirits. When she finally gets to the table she reveals her face and by looking at me her eyes change and all beings vanish from the table, leaving her alone. I wanted the story line to portray my dark side; it’s my way of expressing it all and showing that I have overcome it all. I have always wanted to shoot a Goth video, and working with both Maya Neto and the designer they brought my concept to life. Bringing this dream picture to life was not a walk in the park; it was hard work, dedication and sleepless nights. This video is first of its kind in Namibia.

What can we look forward to next?
I must say the dark side is over, it’s a closed chapter that’s why I entitled the song Twamana meaning “we are done”. There is nothing but a bright and challenging future ahead. I want everyone to expect bigger and better with every video I shoot and every lyric written. Putting the motherland on the map is the aim yes, but yet a challenge. The new album “Olufo lange” which is to be dropped later this year has made me explore outside my comfort zone not forgetting who I am. For my fans who have always known me to be blunt and strait forward, I have not expressed myself any less on this album. I have worked with a number of great producers and artists both local and international including GMP’s very own JEIYO and Sam-ee-lee Jones on different genres, from house, hip hop to real old school kwaito. I have worked on it all on “Olufo lange”.

June Shimuoshili