Eastern Cape Hip-Hop artist Flash Ikumkani unveiled his 9th project ‘Isibane Selali’. The title translates to “the light of the village” and the album aims to highlight artists who hail from “ey’lalini” who have emerged as bright stars in the pursuit of excellence.
‘Isibane Selali’ is particularly a celebration of Xhosa culture in the form of Xhosa rap where Flash Ikumkani alongside his collaborators (Driemanskap, BhutLegend, Bravo Le Roux and many others) rap in their native language. Other features include the likes of Maraza, Anzo and Touchline who are known for rapping in Zulu.
Speaking during the album’s listening session held at Drama last night, Flash Ikumkani touched on his growth and the kind of artist he envisions to be. “What makes this project different is firstly, time, I have grown so much. My perspective in life and how I see things is not the same,” he said.
“The whole album is special to me, but the standout track for me has to be ‘Bendisoyika’ because it took me time to realise that I am that good and so I decided to be me and look where that got me. ‘Amaqaba’ is also one of my favourites because I am ‘iqaba’ coming from the rural areas and I am proud of it.”
The album is a wholesome experience of Xhosa rap and melodic sounds. ‘Isibane Selali’ serves not just as an album but as an artistic statement, challenging norms and spotlighting the authenticity of isiXhosa in the realm of mainstream Hip-Hop in South Africa and beyond.
In Flash’s own words, “It’s Xhosa rap to the world!”
Stream ‘Isibane Selali’ by Flash Ikumkani below:
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