‘I am who I am because of my heritage, culture and influences’ — five minutes with Raheem Kemet

Raheem Kemet is on a mission to leave a mark in the entertainment industry and the strides he’s made have been a build-up to that achievement.

The rapper, poet and vocalist from Durban has long been known for his unique blend of alternative hip hop and soulful melodies, combining influences from his Zulu and Makhuwa heritage.

The release of his highly anticipated new single, Libra, an exploration of love in all its complex and beautiful forms, is a bold step in a more sensual, introspective direction.

TshisaLIVE spoke to the rising star about his music and future ventures.

Libra marks a departure from your usual hardcore rap style, embracing a more sensual, introspective sound. What inspired the shift in direction, and how did it feel to explore a more vulnerable side of yourself in your music?

I always write on both spectrums and have been singing longer than I’ve rapped a verse. It depends on what I’m feeling at a particular moment. I look at the different mediums as my colours, and I use them as such. There was no real departure per se, but rather a getting in touch with myself, as well as finally teaming up with a label that trusted in me holistically as an artist.

You said Libra is an ode to love, particularly your experiences with someone born under that sign. Can you tell us more about how your relationship with a Libra influenced the song, and what aspects of that connection you wanted to convey through your lyrics?

Not to get too personal, but the experience brought me to the summit of unconditional love, which I believe is the ultimate form of love, loving a person for who they are. That’s what I wanted to convey. Through everything, unconditional love is what we should fight for as partners.

Your music has always blended alternative hip hop with soulful melodies, often drawing from your Zulu and Makhuwa heritage. How do the cultural influences continue to shape your sound, particularly on a track like Libra, which feels more emotionally driven?

I wrote this along my journey of self-discovery. So, all is one. I am who I am because of my heritage, culture, and influences, — mainly life itself. All these things are woven together.

In the press release, you talk about your journey as an artist and your commitment to authenticity. How do you see Libra reflecting your growth as a musician and as a person, specially in terms of embracing emotional vulnerability in your art?

I feel vulnerability is key in creating groundbreaking art. An ex once told me the moment I show people this side of me, I’d be surprised at how many people are just like me. As people we wear masks in society. An artist’s responsibility is to tear down those masks and become humanity’s true reflection.

With Libra available on streaming platforms, what do you hope listeners will take away from the track? What message about love and relationships do you want to share through the song?

Let love liberate and bring us to the summit of unconditional love.