STOGIE T is a hip-hop star in South Africa. Real name Tobi Molekane, he made his name with the group Tumi and the Volume, who reinvented the South African rap scene. Now on a solo career, he took to the Balattou stage surrounded by a real musical group, which is becoming a trend in the international rap ecosystem.
Not only was there a beatmaker on stage, but also a guitarist, a keyboardist, a drummer and a singer. The result was an extraordinary rap show. Of course it was. Stogie T gives us flow and sometimes very political lyrics, but the musicians have plenty of room to improvise. And many of them have a jazz background, a strong element of South African culture. As for the singer nicknamed Bonj, she’s got a soulful gospel voice that’s hard to beat.
This rock-jazz-soul music with a hint of African influences blends very well with Stogie T’s prose. Some purists might argue that the overall sound isn’t particularly South African… But Tobi Molekane’s lyrics are. Deeply so. He speaks of violence, of the ghosts of apartheid that are always present. But also of everyday happiness and beauty.
Another note: this band truly represents the new rainbow South Africa. There are blacks, whites and coloureds all getting on like a house on fire. It sends out an unequivocal message. And the audience appreciated this unprecedented mix. A pity: the Balattou was less full than at previous Nuits d’Afrique shows. Perhaps the organizers need to do a better job of reaching the potential audience for this kind of concert.
So remember this name, Stogie T, the next time he comes to our land. You won’t regret it.
Photo : M. Belmellat
