IT'S BEEN A BUSY YEAR AND A HALF FOR VIC MENSA, WHICH INCLUDED A NEW BUSINESS VENTURE, making his mark in the art world, releasing new music, and headlining a first-of-its-kind music and cultural festival on the African continent with fellow Chicago-based artist Chance the Rapper. And there's more to come.
Since he first came to fame a decade ago, Mensa's forged a path of notable success. For those needing a refresher, he established himself as a member of hip-hop collaborative SAVEMONEY, hiphop ensemble Kids These Days in 2009, and a solo rap artist before breaking through to mainstream audiences. He debuted as a solo artist in 2013 on Chance the Rapper's high-profile mixtape Acid Rap and released his first song 'Down on My Luck' in June 2014. His upbeat lyrical style drew on elements of '90s hip-hop's positive side and rock and pop music.
Roc Nation signed Mensa and released his debut album, The Autobiography, in 2017. Over the next several years, he released a slew of EPs, collaborations, and singles, including working with 93PUNX in 2019 and I Tape in 2021.
Aside from his rapping abilities and melodic melodies, Mensa is the creator of the Save Money Save Life organisation, which fights racism in the US and finances three health and arts projects in Chicago.
As an activist, he's spoken out on numerous important issues, including gun violence, mental health, LGBTQI advocacy in hip-hop and the persecution of Black people. It's safe to say that there's more than meets the eye when it comes to Mensa.
CHANGING THE NARRATIVE
Denne historien er fra February - March 2023-utgaven av GQ South Africa.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra February - March 2023-utgaven av GQ South Africa.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
I am Legend
For 40 years, Toyota has produced an iconic 4x4. In 2024 it's received a subtle, rejuvenating facelift - and more. The Land Cruiser 76 is made for Africa.
Alternative Investments
We take a look at how alternative investments offer a diverse range of opportunities beyond the traditional, with a particular focus on venture capital
THE HEART OF A CHAMPION
AYABONGA KHAKA IS A RIGHT-ARM medium bowler for South Africa's national cricket team, and earned a national contract with Cricket South Africa in 2018.
THE DEFENDER OF HOUSE
From his debut album Golden Power to the recent hit \"Yes God\", Oscar Mbo is still the king of deep house music. Apart from consistently energising groovists with his beats, he also stands out as the country's most stylish DJ - and a savvy businessman
GOLDEN BOY
With top-charting hits such as \"Adiwele\", \"Sete\" and \"Imithandazo\", Young Stunna is the face of amapiano, and a rising icon. In a remarkably short time, he's carved out his path in the music industry and stands poised to conquer the world
Fierce, Fearless and Flourishing
THESE FIVE REMARKABLE WOMEN LEADING WITH COURAGE, DETERMINATION, AND LIMITLESS AMBITION ARE REDEFINING SUCCESS IN THEIR OWN TERMS
DAMIAN WILLEMSE HUMBLE STAR OF SA RUGBY
He's renowned for his skill and versatility - but the legacy of Damian Willemse is built on inspiring others, both on and off the field
The Visionary Curator: Jana Terblanche's Journey in the Art World
Poetic and political this ambitious yet principled art curator challenges the traditional and champions African voices
Non-invasive Cosmetic Treatments Guide
From advanced laser therapies to cutting-edge injectables, these innovative procedures offer effective solutions for smoothing wrinkles, enhancing skin tone, and contouring the body
Lelowhatsgood The Maverick DJ Disrupting Africa's Cultural Landscape
“Demon’s Kiss” put him on the map but there’s more to this Renaissance man than just hit singles.
