Hip-hop icon Kwesta talks to GQ about staying original and taking his sound to the world
IT’S BEEN A FEW WEEKS since the artist Senzo Mfundo Vilakazi – who went from humble beginnings in Katlehong to making music with international superstars – became a seven-times platinum best-seller. His originality has allowed him to shape a lane in music that few could ever dream of. In this exclusive, KWESTA shares his views on culture and identity, leaving a legacy and why Katlehong forms the blueprint for everything he touches.
GQ: How does your music celebrate being South African?
KWESTA: My music comes from the fact that I grew up here. All my stories are South African and people can understand that. I mention where I’m from all the time and celebrate it without fear.
GQ: Is that why Katlehong always makes it into your raps?
KWESTA: I want people to know that I come from a beautiful place and that I don’t come from complete hopelessness. That’s why I am so fearless, because K1 raised me and the world must come see this beautiful place.
GQ: How would you define a remixed culture?
KWESTA: I would use the township as a reference, because that’s what I really know and am comfortable with. You see, it was never designed for any sort of greatness – its purpose was to keep a people segregated from what is great. But now we are communicating that the hood is actually better and you can make a mark. To me this is the remix, because the original said you are useless and you don’t belong in society, and now we’re saying you can be Sandton and be hood.
GQ: Is this the reason tracks like ‘Spirit’ and ‘Ngud’’ became so successful?
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
CREATIVE MINDS BEHIND THE CAMERA
A creative director, a filmmaker and a video director - three Ghanaian visionaries share their unique approach to fashion and visual storytelling
Body Odours You Shouldn't Ignore
A little whiff of sweat or muskiness may not be cause for concern, but some smells can signal a health concern that are worth taking a bit more seriously
THE MOST CONSISTENT IN THE GAME
K.O's greatest strength is his adaptability in the evolving music industry while staying true to his roots. From his days as a member of Teargas to solo hits like \"Caracara\" and \"Sete,\" he proves that he is always one step ahead
POWER & PASSION
Off the field and comfortable with SA rugby's MVPs, Eben Etzebeth and Cheslin Kolbe
GUNNING FOR GLORY!
BURNING UP THE GLOBAL STAGE, BLXCKIE HAS A THING OR TWO TO SHOW US ABOUT SUCCESS
Final Edition
From 2025, Jaguar will go fully electric. To say farewell to their internal combustion felines, our motoring editor Dieter Losskarn joined the megabrand in taking their latest F-Type sportscar on one last lap
WRITING THEIR NEXT CHAPTERS OF SUCCESS TOGETHER
The collaboration between Bisquit and Dubouché and Kwesta is kicking into gear with an initiative to drive a new wave of pioneering spirits
Exceeding all the Hype
Group managing director at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa, Michael Kewley injected charm and artistry into the space, elevating its status of luxury
Grand Cruiser
Our motoring editor Dieter Losskarn was pleasantly surprised by how much he liked the new Prado. In fact, it is one of the best SUV/4x4 vehicles he's driven in a long time. Here's why...
Why Does Everyone Have Big, Fake White Teeth Now?
Veneers were once a dirty secret. Now, they're a luxury status symbol and the famous and wealthy are flocking to Hollywood's favorite dentist in search of even more perfect smiles
