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Google “vernec rapper” and the names Pro and Zuluboy pop up. What they both have incommon is spending a significant portion of their lives in Durban townships (Lamontville and Inanda respectively). A latest addition to this list is uncanningly also from a Durban township (Inanda) and predictably raps in the Zulu language. I’m talking about the kasi rap kid OZ who is increasingly getting popular due to his rap single IMAL’ YAM’.
Born Lindokuhle Osborne Simamane, Oz’s came into the spotlight 2006 as part of the kwaito crew LVK (LoVeforKwaito). LVK’s single ‘Ayihlale Phansi” became Oz’s launch pad into the industry as SABC1 religiously played their music video for a solid 2 years. In 2009 Oz decided to go solo and embrace his true love hip hop.
OZ has featured in several rap project's including the 2010 FIFA world Cup inspired "Siyabangena" which featured other rap talents's such as Kay E and Succezz Lepora. He also landed a verse in Kofifee's single "Freak Me Baby". It is however for his single "Imal' yam" that the name OZ is raising eyebrows.
Imal’ Yam's beat is explosive and energetic, while OZ's lyrical content is street and freshly delivered in a personalized vernacular flow with a KZN accent. In this single OZ throws intelligent, punch-lines and avoids the use of similes, as he narrates his hunger, the benefits of and the hurdles of being financially independent. Through IMAL’ YAM’ OZ proves both his originality and his clinical approach to songwriting.
“OZ” is more than just music, it is a brand…smart musicians realise that longevity in the industry is only achieved through good music but a strong brand need to accompany the music”, OZ commented. It thus came as no surprise when we later discovered that OZ is working on launching his line of leather belts, wallets, cellphone pouch and hand bags in 2011.
“I‘ve just finished recording my first EP titled “Direct Translation” and shooting the music video for IMAL’ YAM’ this month end” he added. “I’m good at what I do and want the whole world to know I am here to stay” he added. With budding rotation on radio, his top 10 position on ReverbNation.com charts and his latest coverage on Music Industry Online (MIO), one can rightfully assume that it’s only a matter of time before OZ becomes a true household name in vernacular rap.
A free download of the tune is available from Channel24.co.za. Follow this link and marvel for yourself at his artistry.
