There is a Xhosa saying that reads: ‘Ubukulu abubangwa’ which communicates that someone isn’t great, simply because they have stated so. The extension of this is saying that one shows their greatness by their actions and deeds. Bravo le Roux is in the midst of coming into his greatness with his debut album that he dropped at the end of last month; and quite frankly, it is a beautiful experience he details a trailblazing Hip-Hop journey.
Bravo le Roux, formerly known as Sinesipho Peterisa Xhosa singer, songwriter and rapper with roots in Cape Town, Khayelitsha. His debut album ‘Igazi, Iinyembezi Nombilo’ is a testament to his growth and journey to finding himself, and his sound. Rap, in a wholistic sense is rhythm and poetry; once you add a layer of a deeply poetic language (Xhosa), you have sealed the deal. A prominent feature in his work is storytelling, by relaying his experiences of life, living in Khayelitsha as well as his aspirations.
A particular song from the album that caught my ear was ‘Maradona’. For those that are curious to gain some sport knowledge, the title of the song links to the infamous late ‘Diego Maradona’ who was a football player and football coach which he was regarded one of the ‘GOATS’ of the sport. This serves as an interesting song title already which is extended through the song’s lyrics. In the song, Bravo raps ‘Ndim ngu ’Maradona’ and ‘Uyandi’bona?’ as a note to the greatness that he is aspiring to. The song may seem boastful but in actuality is a self-hype track. It is aspirational in nature and communicates just that, that he aspires to be great and he is well underway to be GOATED.
The vocals on his track ‘Idini’ are magnificently chilling and pulls at my heart strings. The transition goes to him relaying thanks and showing a grateful heart to what he has been able to achieve thus far in his career and what he is yet to achieve in his life as well.
Bravo to Mr Bravo for releasing a beautiful body of work that demonstrates the blood, sweat and tears that has gone into it. Give the album an ear and enjoy the poetic journey!
