Interview

Pyramid sit down with HeMustBeFabulous

October 23, 2024
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Pyramid Magazine had a sit down with HeMustBeFabulous to catch up on his latest release and get to understand where his mind is currently at.

Pyramid Mag: MORA 0420 has been out for a young minute and buzzing the streets, how has your journey in the industry been since you started recording, leading to the release of this project?

HeMustBeFabulous: Honestly, it’s been hard. From being disregarded, switching names and sound seeking to where things are now. It has been a crazy journey. MORA is not my debut project, my alias was PRDGY back then, and during that time, I dropped a project titled “BRODA.”

Pyramid Mag: What inspired your stage name?

HeMustBeFabulous: A girl actually. It was back in high school. We weren’t anything special by the way. She just called me that because she thought I resembled the OG Fabolous’s features, plus our favourite song was by him and French Montana. So, I was called “Fab” throughout my high school years. The ‘HeMustBe’ came after. It was highly because of my insta handle until I fell in love with it.

Pyramid Mag: Can you tell us who are you are worked on your music? i.e., Production, Engineering, PR, Management, etc.

HeMustBeFabulous: No comment 😶 but mostly my brothers.

Pyramid Mag: What’s your favorite song you’ve been featured on, and the reason why it stands out?

HeMustBeFabulous: Welcome Sebokeng by Real Deal Genaro because of my experiences with him. He’s not just a friend he’s a brother to me, so the song means a lot to me.

Pyramid Mag: Can you tell us about your most memorable live performance? And where can people catch your live during this coming festive?

HeMustBeFabulous: Yeah of course. Earlier this year at the Concept store event. It was a crazy turnout honestly. You can catch me live at the Dj Knockout Challenge on the 16th of December at Dickinson Park.

Pyramid Mag: What’s your view on the current state of #VaalHipHop?

HeMustBeFabulous: We are up next. I feel like we are the next face of South African Hip-Hop, but we just haven’t realized it yet.

Pyramid Mag: What music are you planning to drop in the near future? i.e., Singles, EP, Album?

HeMustBeFabulous: All I can say is “Ke dropa neng? Ska ntatela!” I can’t comment on that and I’m sorry.

Pyramid Mag: What do you hope to achieve with your music? Where do you want your music to lead you?

HeMustBeFabulous: Introspection. I’m not an open guy at all but my music helps me with that, so I want it to help me to fully introspect myself to a point where it comes naturally. I want to fully know and understand myself.

Pyramid Mag: What impact do you want your work and music to have on your audience/followers, as well as the industry at large?

HeMustBeFabulous: I figured by sharing stories of my life I can easily connect with a lot of people. People relate to my stories and that allows me to have an impact in their lives. I would also like to change lives in a positive way. I think that’s why God gifted me with this talent. I think that’s my purpose.

Challenge

Scar Stunner: 10K Challenge Top 20 MC Finalist

September 30, 2024
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In a world where every rapper claims to be the best, Scar Stunner follows the real meaning behind his name, Sibusiso, by consistently proving that he is a gift to the game with his raw lyricism. Based in Orange Farm [Vaal Triangle, South of Johannesburg], Scar Stunner is known for his vicious punchlines and metaphors.

The Orange Farm’s Lyrical Powerhouse Needs Your Vote to Make Top 8 in the 10K MC Challenge! Scar Stunner represents the hustle and grind of South Africa’s underdog MCs. With his gritty, real-life storytelling and a lyrical prowess that cuts deep, he embodies what it means to be a true Hip-Hop artist. He doesn’t just spit rhymes, he paints pictures of the daily struggles and triumphs of life in Orange Farm, representing #VaalHipHop. His raw bars, creative wordplay, and unique delivery set him apart from the rest, and it’s no surprise that he’s earned a place in the Top 20 of this year’s competition.

How to Vote for Scar Stunner

Making it to the Top 8 of the Back To The City 10K MC Challenge could be a game-changing moment in Scar Stunner’s career, and your vote can make all the difference.

SMS “BTTC SCAR STUNNER” to 43366

With your vote, Scar Stunner can make it to the Top 8 and get one step closer to winning the 10K MC Challenge. This is more than a competition—it’s about pushing the culture forward and giving Scar Stunner the recognition he deserves. Moreover, if you post a screenshot of your votes on Facebook and tag Scar Stunner and OB Gwala, you stand a chance to win “HIP HOP SAVED MY LIFE” merchandise from O-PRODUCTIONS.

Career Highlights

•Featured on Yfm, Metro Fm, Ukhozi Fm, SlaghuisTv, KasiRapTV, Sotra Cyphers, Slaghuis Sessions

•Shared stages with Big Zulu, Anzo, Pro, HHP, Teargas, Kelly Khumalo, Arthur

•Performed for President Mandela at the Mandela Foundation Charity Concert

•Performed at FNB stadium at the Telkom Charity Cup

Scar Stunner is also featured in the latest Vaal Compilation by Pyramid Mag titled #LostTreasures with a song produced by Kastro LePrince called “Into Enjani”

Here are some of his highlights can check out on YouTube:

News

Dear #VaalHipHop

September 27, 2024
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Raw Beats, a prolific Producer, Engineer and one of the Key Elements behind the hip hop scene in the Vaal, penned a heartfelt letter to the #VaalHipHop Community. It reads as below:

Dear #VaalHipHop Family,

As we reflect on the journey of our vibrant hip hop scene, it’s impossible to ignore the ups and downs that have shaped our community. The passion, the talent, and the fierce competition have all played a role in defining what #VaalHipHop is today. While we’ve seen our fair share of beefs and rivalries, it’s essential to recognize how these challenges have ultimately paved the way for growth, collaboration, and innovation.

The beefs that have emerged within our scene have often been intense, fueled by pride and the desire to assert one’s place in the industry. Artists have clashed, and tensions have flared, leading to moments that seemed divisive. However, rather than tearing us apart, these conflicts have sparked conversations and brought attention to our talent. They have forced us to confront our differences and, in many cases, have led to a deeper understanding of one another’s artistry.

What’s remarkable is how these rivalries have failed to destroy our community. Instead, they have opened doors. Artists who once viewed each other as competitors have found ways to collaborate, creating music that blends their unique styles and perspectives. These partnerships have not only enriched our sound but have also fostered a sense of unity that transcends individual egos.

We’ve witnessed the birth of new working relationships that have emerged from the ashes of conflict. Collaborations between artists who once had beef have resulted in powerful tracks that resonate with fans and showcase the strength of our collective talent. These projects have highlighted the importance of coming together, proving that our differences can be a source of inspiration rather than division.

Moreover, the spirit of competition has driven many of us to elevate our craft. The desire to stand out has led to innovative approaches to music production, lyricism, and performance. As we push each other to be better, we create a dynamic environment that fosters creativity and growth. This competitive spirit, when channeled positively, can lead to groundbreaking collaborations that redefine our sound and expand our reach.

As we move forward, let’s continue to embrace the lessons learned from our past. Let’s celebrate our individuality while recognizing the power of collaboration. The #VaalHipHop scene is rich with potential, and by working together, we can create a legacy that honors our roots while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

In closing, I urge each of you to reflect on the relationships you’ve built and the collaborations you’ve embarked upon. Let’s keep the dialogue open, support one another, and continue to uplift our community. Together, we can ensure that #VaalHipHop remains a force to be reckoned with, not just in our region but on a global scale.

With respect and admiration,

Raw Beats SA

A Fellow Vaal Hip Hop Enthusiast

Raw Beats also recently hosted a Music Workshop in partnership with Vaal University of Technology (VUT), and the link is available on YouTube

Audioble Solutions Masterclass at VUT

Music Showcasts

Vaal’s Lyrical Virtuoso: Quality of Nature Artistic Ascendancy

May 22, 2024
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Meet Qiniselo Nelson Radebe, aka Quality of Nature (QN), a 26-year-old lyrical maestro hailing from the Vaal. His journey began in 2012, penning rhymes for friends who had the vocal chops to sing and rap. As his passion for wordplay and holistic rapping grew, QN spotted a gap in the music scene, leading him to dive into the rap game full throttle in 2020.

QN isn’t just a rapper; he’s a triple threat—rapper, singer, and songwriter—although he admits singing isn’t his forte, he collaborates with vocalists to bring his visions to life. These years of honing his raw talent have armored him for the battles and triumphs that lie ahead. Keep an eye on QN, because this wordsmith from the Vaal is ready to shake up the industry.

Quality of Nature – Myself | Vaal Performance

Quality of Nature – Bad Habits (Visualizer)

Quality of Nature – Sad and Wise
Quality of Nature – Type Fore EP
Insights

On Deck for Success: DJ ZAN-D Pushing Commercial Frontier

April 3, 2024
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The annual radio season has come upon the South African airwaves, and one DJ who’s been spinning the Hip-Hop decks on these waves is DJ Zan-D. Having secured another year on South Africa’s trailblazing commercial radio station known for its commitment to showcasing emerging talent and pushing the boundaries of conventional broadcasting, Y-FM, DJ Zan-D will be vibrating on high frequency on YTKO on Tuesdays between 18h00 and 19h00, as well as IN THE RING on Saturdays from 20h00 to 00h00 with Just Mo respectively.

There’s been many talks about the absence/presence of #SAHIPHOP in the commercial scene. The role of DJs in commercial hip-hop has evolved significantly over the years, transitioning from being primarily behind-the-scenes music selectors to influential tastemakers and key players in the industry’s commercial success. DJs now hold a pivotal position in shaping the sound, image, and promotion of hip-hop artists, albums, and brands. One of the hip hop DJs who’s been very vocal about pushing the envelope to the rise of #SAHIPHOP is DJ ZAN-D.

“SA Hip Hop has gone back to the underground. Rappers are rapping again and no one is trying to release bubblegum. The real hip hop heads are happy with the quality of music that’s coming out. The part time consumers are complaining because they are looking for hits. Part time hip hop consumers are also complaining about the lack of hip hop events but real hip hop heads know where to find their events every week” says DJ ZAN-D.

In addition to the state of #SAHIPHOP, DJ Zan-D also shared his views about #VaalHipHop: “Vaal hip hop has been the exciting over the last couple of years. Artists like Espiquet, Dj Kaymoworld, Hopemasta have contributed profusely to the game. We need more artists to shine now and gents must not remove the foot off the pedal.”

DJs often serve as a bridge between artists and their audience, providing a platform for exposure and helping to build buzz around upcoming releases. As a result, DJ Zan-D has released music that’s available on all Digital Stores.

https://ingroovesafrica.lnk.to/Amaqwa

https://linktr.ee/djzand#359962176

Also check out the ADN Podcast mix he did on YouTube, which is also available on Hearthis

News

Pyramid Magazine named one of the Top 10 South African Hip Hop Blogs on the web

February 28, 2024
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Pyramid Magazine, the premier online digital platform dedicated to documenting the #VaalHipHop movement, has been recognized as one of the Top 10 South African Hip Hop Blogs on the web by a group of panelists from Feedspot. Feedspot is an international platform that has over 250k Influential Bloggers database classified in more than 1500 niche categories.

See the full list on the site:

10 Best South Africa Hip Hop Blogs and Websites in 2024 (feedspot.com)

This accolade underscores Pyramid Magazine’s commitment to showcasing the vibrant #VaalHipHop scene and providing a platform for emerging artists to shine. Pyramid Magazine goes beyond the conventional to deliver inspirational stories, artist profiles, and insightful content aimed at educating enthusiasts about the music industry. From exclusive interviews with rising stars to in-depth features on industry trends, Pyramid Magazine continues to set the standard for excellence in Hip Hop journalism.

Pyramid Magazine’s inclusion in the Top 10 South Africa Hip Hop Blogs list affirms its position as a leading voice in the industry and underscores its ongoing impact of being the voice for #VaalHipHop on the global hip hop landscape. With a finger on the pulse of innovation and creativity, Pyramid Magazine continues to elevate and champion the diverse voices shaping the future of Hip Hop.

Insights

Leqhwa opens 2024 by penning a heartfelt verse on Umndeni Wezitha by Symon Maguire.

February 11, 2024
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In a moment that sparked surprise and exhilaration, Leqhwa’s name blazed across the latest release by Symon Maguire, under the EasternVille Music Affiliate banner. Since the explosive ICE PROJECT, Leqhwa’s presence in the music realm had been veiled in mystery until his associate and #VaalHipHop luminary, Vincent Kheswa, penned a detailed letter unveiling Leqhwa’s status in the scene. The letter, shared fervently on Leqhwa’s Facebook profile, hinted at a seismic shift in the industry.

Armed with nothing but a pen and a soul brimming with authenticity, Leqhwa unleashed a torrent of emotions with his verse on Symon Maguire’s soul-stirring track, “Umndeni Wezitha”. His raw, impassioned delivery resonated deeply with listeners, striking a chord especially among those who found solace in his heartfelt message about the complexities of family feuds.

With each syllable, Leqhwa reignited a fervor for his artistry, leaving fans yearning for more of his lyrical prowess. His seamless integration with Symon Maguire’s melodious vocals bridged the linguistic gap between IsiZulu and Sesotho, crafting a harmonious fusion that transcended cultural boundaries. This unprecedented collaboration not only showcased the boundless talent within the EasternVille Music community but also underscored its unparalleled versatility.

If the tantalizing hints in the letter are anything to go by, audiences can brace themselves for an onslaught of musical masterpieces from Leqhwa in the coming year (2024), promising a resurgence that will undoubtedly redefine the landscape of the music industry.

Umndeni Wezitha is available on all Digital Stores from the project titled INGUQUKO by Symon Maguire

https://artists.landr.com/064837424903

Leqhwa also made the below notable appearances:

Thanks Giving / Kalkoen by T’bu Twiz featuring Leqhwa.

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/tbutwiz1/whos-crown-is-it-anyway

Voodoo Season by Voodoo Island featuring GodZeus, L-Ment, Leqhwa and Zeze Kortez.

https://untd.io/m/6531a3f77d6342a897944993

Tsa Maleven by Masedi featuring Leqhwa and Kxng B The Great

https://cca.ffm.to/sedilaka

Showcasts

Anzo “Islwane” Unleashed: The Freestyle Chronicles

January 31, 2024
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Pyramid Magazine presents Anzo “Islwane” Unleashed: The Freestyle Chronicles which offers a unique glimpse into the artistry and skill of freestyle rap, as Anzo takes center stage to deliver phenomenal verses, weaving intricate wordplay and mesmerizing flows on the fly.

This collection of freestyles marks a captivating journey through the realms of improvisational lyricism. Pyramid Magazine honours Anzo for the incredible work he continues to showcase in the Music Industry and reminds people that he is a lyrical genius with an untamed spirit of Hip-Hop.

Pen Freestyle

Senzangakhona Freestyle

Boss Zonke Cover

Uthini NgoPro Cover

Spirit Cover

Jack Cover

Trap Jumpin’ Cover

ANZO

Sotra Cyphers Exclusive Freestyle

Music

The Jump Off Cypher – (Free) Beat by Raw Beats

January 25, 2024
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Renowned in the realm of Hip-Hop Production, Raw Beats is excited to announce an exclusive opportunity for seasoned and aspiring rappers alike. In a gesture of appreciation on the reception of the Vaal State of Mind, Raw Beats, in association with Sharpeville Creations, is giving away a FREE BEAT, providing a platform for rappers to showcase their lyrical prowess and creativity.

With an illustrious career marked by chart-topping hits such as Vanish and True Religion, and collaborations with industry heavyweights as on Crazy 8, Raw Beats continues to push the boundaries of musical innovation. recognized for his signature sound and impeccable production quality, he remains a driving force in shaping the landscape of #VaalHipHop and modern Hip-Hop.

This rare opportunity to access a free beat from a Hip-Hop luminary like Raw Beats is an initiative not only underscores Raw Beat’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent but also serves as a testament to his passion for the craft. By offering a complimentary beat, he aims to empower artists to express themselves freely and to explore new artistic avenues.

Music

Vaal State Of Mind | Free Download

January 19, 2024
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SHARPEVILLE CREATIONS PRESENTS ~ VAAL STATE OF MIND | FREE DOWNLOAD ~

For the love of Hip-Hop, Sharpeville Creations has been hosting Sessions for the longest time now, with The Jump Off being the most notable. However, December 2023 turned a new leaf with The Vibes Sessions hosted regularly going into the new at The Intersection, keeping the flames 🔥 ablaze. Cyphers are at the core of the Hip-Hop culture, and Sharpeville Creations provided a platform at these sessions to involve not only the rappers, but the DJs and producers as well. The Cypher has now turned into a track produced by the incredible Boom-Bap Specialist, Raw Beats, featuring Darklisted, Lone Judas, InnerCore, Maths Dipalo aka Ntate Beibi and Tha Lord Okest. The magnificent Hip Hop DJ, Terry Wizz, is on the decks on this one.