Mohalenyane Phakela
UP-AND-COMING rapper, Juvinile, says he is on a mission to make an imprint on the local musical landscape and has set out to perform in various events to attain his goal.
Over the past year, Juvinile has performed at gigs, festivals and corporate events as he seeks to earn a living from his chosen career. So far, he has performed at some of Lesotho’s major festivals such as the Vodacom Summa Feva in which he shared the stage with South African heavyweights.
He told the Weekender this week that he was motivated by other local artistes who have managed to get sustenance from the entertainment industry.
“I am inspired by such artists as Stlofa and DJ Boots who are able to pay their bills from their music. The local industry is not rewarding but these gentlemen, whom I look up to, are managing to get income from it.”
Born Motebang Nkoko in Mazenod, Juvinile won Hip Hop fans over with the track One Day and the exciting rendition to the pre-school riddle Tlou Ena.
He said his hard work and determination will ultimately separate him from other up-and-comers.
“I have always strived to succeed and never to despair,” Juvinile said. “So every time I fall, I just dust myself off and continue on my journey.”
His single Tjotjo, which features PCFM’s DJ Boots, has been the talk of town. He has also released the banger Monate Si, a remix to South African legendary Kwaito trio TKZee’s track. According to Juvinile, his album My Blood and Tears encapsulates his passion for his craft and where he is headed.
“I rap about things that happen within my environment. I just want to make music that people can relate to and which has a positive impact on people’s lives,” he said.
Juvinile was given the Best Hip Hop Artist award at the Ultimate Music Awards last November and was the second most voted for artist. He said it is only through hard-work and his unique delivery that he has been accorded the honours.
