There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that Okmalumkoolkat has been on form, killing every feature he’s been in for the last two years; a hot streak that he is adamant will translate to longevity in the game. We caught up with the jetsetter to discuss his brand new EP, The Holy Oxygen, why he sees himself as a musician instead of a rapper, as well as his futuristic take on local music.
Is there a difference between your persona Okmalumkoolkat and Simiso Zwane the person? Is the person and the persona a part and parcel of your everyday being?
Yes, it’s two different beings. Simiso is a person, alive in the now. Okmalumkoolkat is an idea, he is gonna be alive forever.
How would you describe your sound to someone who isn’t familiar with your style of hip hop and what do you think separates you from the current crop of rappers?
I would describe my music as a potjiekos of styles, which I have labelled as Primustof, Gqomwave, Digital Maskandi, New Age Kwaito and Smanje-manje. I really couldn’t tell you the difference between my peers and I but maybe just listen to the music.
What is your opinion on gimmicks in hip hop and do they have a place in our culture?
Depends how you look at it. You can actually step back and look at the term ‘hip hop’ and the genre being born from Jamaican Sound System Culture, which was influenced by American radio jockeys. The concept of using things like fashion and aligning with lux brands is young so it’s allowed.
For the full interview make sure to cop the December-January issue currently out in stores nationwide!!!