In a landmark moment for South African hip hop, rapper Zakwe, also known as Ntokozo Zakwe, has kicked off his introductory tour across the United States, bringing the vibrant sounds of Mzansi to audiences abroad. Speaking exclusively to ZiMoja, Zakwe expressed his excitement about this milestone in his career.
“Ngiyaqala ngqa! (It’s my first time ever),” he exclaimed cheerfully, reflecting on the significance of his US debut. Zakwe’s journey from the streets of KwaZulu-Natal to international stages is a testament to his dedication and talent, as he continues to push the boundaries of South African hip hop on a global scale.
Having already toured Swaziland, Malawi, Nigeria, Botswana, and now the US, Zakwe’s impact on the hip hop scene is undeniable. The US Embassy in Durban recognised his contributions to the local hip hop community and saw an opportunity to showcase his talent to Americans abroad.
“They loved what I have been doing in KZN for the hip hop community as an underground events planner and musician,” Zakwe explained. “They hit me up to see if I’d be interested in learning more about the culture, the origin of hip hop in the USA, and how their artists make it with rap music.”
For Zakwe, this tour is more than just a performance opportunity—it’s validation of his years of hard work and dedication to his craft. “It’s a stamp of approval, that the hip hop movement I have started is going far,” he remarked. Such things bring joy to me and the rap community as a whole.
Grateful for the support from the US Embassy, Zakwe emphasised the importance of giving back to his community. “I have been assisting a lot of upcoming artists at home in KZN,” he noted. “Some are now signed. So, this feels like I am reaping what I have sowed.”
As he takes the stage in cities like Washington DC, New York, and Raleigh, Zakwe is met with anticipation from his US fans and a warm reception from new audiences eager to experience his unique blend of South African hip hop. Despite the demands of his current tour, Zakwe is already looking ahead, focusing on securing funding for his next project aimed at supporting aspiring MC’s back home.
With each performance, Zakwe continues to break barriers and elevate the South African hip hop scene onto the global stage, proving that talent knows no bounds. As he navigates the highs and lows of life on tour, Zakwe remains steadfast in his mission to inspire, uplift, and represent his roots with pride.
Picture: @zakwesa
