We had the privilege of sitting down with one of the dopest female rappers in the game and the first lady of Emtee Records, BABYG!RL ZAE. We talked about her album, being signed to Emtee Records, and her experiences in South African hip-hop. Sit down and read this interview to get to know her better.
How does it feel to be the first lady of Emtee Records, moving with the guys who are always in the streets?
It feels good. I feel like I have a platform to really represent women, and I absolutely love that. Thank you so much for the opportunity, and a shoutout to Emtee.
How did the signing come about? Who approached who, and what led you to Emtee Records?
It’s a crazy story, but in summary, I had a song that’s still not out, and you should watch out for it. I thought Emtee would be an amazing feature on it. We got into the studio, we cooked and one thing led to another. He told me I’m talented and that he wanted me on Emtee Records, and I said, “Let’s go.”
For fans of Emtee Records who are just getting introduced to you, can you describe what it’s like to work with Emtee as a record label owner?
Honestly, he brings a sharp mind and experience to South African trap, and it means a lot. There’s nobody better to learn from. He has so much wisdom, and he shares that wisdom with all of us at Emtee Records. Sometimes in studio, we’ll pause the track and just talk. He’ll give us guidance on how to communicate as artists and understand each other’s headspaces. Even at gigs, he shows us the way. Working with him has been fun, and I’m very grateful to be in this position.
How long have you been making music, and how would you describe your experience in the South African hip-hop industry so far?
I started making music when I was 14, which was about seven years ago. It’s been a rollercoaster. I’ve seen a lot and met many people, and I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me. Being a female artist is quite difficult, but I’m proud to be South African, and I really want to take South Africa further.
You dropped a nine-track album, called Matr!archy, dedicated to women. Take us through the project – what inspired it, who you worked with and why you chose to only collaborate with women?
My mom and I actually came up with the idea – shoutout to my mom. We were talking about how women in South Africa really need their voices to be heard. There are so many women who go through a lot, and it’s important for us to stick together.
I’ve interviewed many women from across South Africa, and I’ve asked what topics mattered most to them as women. Surprisingly, they all mentioned the same things.
Those became my themes. I then decided to make the project all-female. I wanted each artist to choose the topic that resonated with them personally. There’s very little collaboration between women, so I felt it was necessary for us to come together.
Which song on the project holds a special place in your heart?
I can’t pick a favourite. There are songs for different moods, but the one that hit me the most is ‘PURPLE & BLUES’ featuring glockie. It’s about gender-based violence. It’s a very important topic, especially with everything happening around Women for Change. During that session, we were both very vulnerable. The song isn’t about blaming men; rather, it’s about the aftermath and recovery. The song is about making sure women are not victimised forever. That one really touched my heart.
As men in the industry, how can we make things easier and safer for women like you?
First of all, the fact that you even ask that question – a lot of men don’t – so respect to you. Safety is a huge thing. Whether it’s as a female artist or just a woman you don’t know, always watch out for her. Protect her and keep her safe. Unfortunately, no matter where you go in this country, there are people watching. Another thing is removing this “female rap hysteria”. Not all women are vulgar. We have music, and we deserve to be recognised the same way as anyone else. Being a woman doesn’t make me “less than”.
What music videos are currently out, and which visuals are still coming?
Right now, ‘MORE TO ME’ featuring Tam Carson is out. We also have ‘MY NEEDS’ featuring Blue K. coming up, and we’re working on ‘10X’ featuring Seldasantanny and the visuals for ‘PURPLE & BLUES’ are on the way too. There are a lot more visuals on the way.
Before we wrap up, can you share your social media handles?
It’s @babygrlzae on all platforms.