The Big Bro Theory represents a homecoming for Kwesta, one that reflects both his personal growth and his pivotal role in shaping the sound of South African hip-hop. Picture: Instagram/kwestadakar
Image: Instagram/kwestadakar
South African hip-hop heavyweight Kwesta has released his sixth studio album “The Big Bro Theory”.
A much-awaited project, this is Kwesta’s first solo project since his 2021 album release “g.o.d Guluva”. However, the top rapper hasn't been sitting idle, in 2022 he released a collaborative album “Speak N Vrostaan”.
Born Senzo Vilakazi, the multi-award winning rapper has evolved into a big brother of the music industry, something he says started after the pandemic, without his permission even.
Kwesta opened up about the transition he found himself in at his listening session for “The Big Bro Theory”. Attended by some of Mzansi’s top entertainers Yanga Chief, Moozlie, DJ Zinhle, Morda, and L-Tido to mention a few.
In a discussion, moderated by fellow rapper and podcaster Zingah, Kwesta broke down the 12-track album, taking guests behind the making of the album.
Kwesta explained that after Covid, he found himself feeling lost like they couldn’t find themselves in the new environment, with new talent taking over the hip-hop scene and the shift among South African listeners.
He explained how transformation ultimately revealed maturity and perspective. How some people now doing well will later look back at the older generation with mixed feelings.
Ultimately, for Kwesta the process instilled his belief in his legacy, acknowledging that some influential figures left a real mark, even if not everyone recognized it at the time.
The new album sees, Kwesta accepting his big brother role and comfortably stepping into his new position as a big brother in the industry. He has learned to let the kids be, do things their way and be at arm's reach when needed.
“What I like about this album,” he said thoughtfully to IOL, “is that it's focused on the youth, but still from the perspective of someone trying to be a good man.”
Kwesta admits that he is still learning how to be a mentor, despite his 20 years in the industry. “I know from being young myself, that I hate anything that's forced on me, so I don't want to force, whatever I think I know anyone.
“I gotta find a delicate way to send a message without taking away from who I'm sending the message,” he shared.
One way, Kwesta has evolved is in how he moves as an artist. In 2019, he announced his decision to stop performing in clubs. His partnerships started getting more lined with the building of a strong brand, which he has successfully done.
Brand Kwesta has aligned with top brands such as French cognac brand Bisquit & Dubouché, and most recently motoring brand Jaecoo South Africa.
“The fact that brands still want to work with brand Kwesta after 18 years? I must be doing something right.”
Kwesta credits authenticity for his staying power. “I don’t chase brands. If a brand’s vision aligns with mine, we work together. It’s always about finding that shared message and moving together.
As with any evolution, there’s always a risk that fans may feel left behind. But Kwesta isn’t pretending to be the same man he was when he started.
“To be honest,” he says, “you can listen to the album and react honestly. I’m not asking anyone to feel what I want them to feel. I’m growing, into new things, out of old ones. That’s just life.”
For “The Big Bro Theory”, Kwesta worked with artists he admires, speaking passionately about their talents and contributions to his album. Rapper Kid X features on track five “Contra”. Kwesta calls “Father of Zen” his favourite rapper from his generation, opening up about their deep friendship and respect for each other.
Kwesta went on to declare rapper Touchline, as his favourite rapper among the new school generation of rappers. Touchline who attended the listening session, listened on as Kwesta big bro called him his favourite rapper. “I’m not in any way trying to put him in a position of pressure.
“I’m blatantly saying that if I was to leave the game tomorrow, any day and Touchline was the last rapper left I would be fine with how it.”
Other features included, Blxckie, Ndabezinhle Mtungwa, Nkosazana Daughter, Makwa, Thabsie, Blaq Diamond and Amanda Black.
“The Big Bro Theory” gives listeners a mature, Kwesta one, Senzo Vilakazi, who’s evolved and is in a good place in his life. He doesn't need rap gimmicks and never has and “The Big Bro Theory” reminds you why he is Kwesta.
IOL Entertainment