Celebrating Namibian hip-hop

Michael Kayunde

Windhoek





Right, good people. It's been weeks since I wrote a full-length column for this publication after weeks of lowkey development and growth of the tjil brand on the digital front.

Since we went digital, the team decided that the monthly editions will be themed. For August, the theme is hip-hop, as we join the world in celebrating this culture that turns 47 this month.

A whole edition dedicated to Namibian hip-hop related news stories and features.

I'm not sure whether it's been done before, but I definitely believe this edition is a big moment for Namibian hip-hop artists, the community and the culture as a whole.

As the custodian journalist for this publication, I would like to thank the editorial team I report to for allowing me to execute this crazy idea.

I would also like to thank the artists featured in this edition for allowing me to tell their stories.

This is my representation of the trust and love I have for those fighting to get to a level they've dream about all their lives.

Hip-hop is big on chasing dreams and upgrading your lifestyle and that of those around you – it's a very ambitious, driven culture. So, this edition is tjil's way of saying we believe in you, and we see all the big dreamers, hip-hop followers and game-changers out there.

For the cover feature, I spoke to reigning hip-hop king Skrypt, who shared an update on his forthcoming EP. He also spoke about getting a call from veteran rapper Stogie-T, previously known as Tumi from Tumi and The Volume, to do a verse for his popular Instagram show #FreestyleFriday.

I literally got goose bumps when I found out that Stogie-T reached out to Skrypt and not the other way round. Stogie-T called Skrypt, bro! I don't think you guys understand how big of a moment that was.

More than anything, I was impressed by Skrypt's modesty, because if I got a call from Stogie-T, I would have broadcasted a screenshot on all my social media platforms – HATERS MUST KNOW!

They say hip-hop is a young man's game, so this edition is jam-packed with features on the leaders of the new school, including Skipper Wills, Kay-Z Bearens and DBS Africa artist Waters, who specialises in R&B.

Let me not spoil it further for you! I hope you enjoy this edition.



Yours in hip-hop.



[email protected]; @MichaelMKAY on twitter