Tshegofatso Reabetswe Kungwane, otherwise known as ‘The Big Hash‘ has rippled his way through the music scene in unimaginable ways, through his voice, musical versatility and admirable vulnerability. Being a singer, songwriter and rapper, The Big Hash introduced himself as a triple threat, from ‘The Big Hash Theory‘ and has consistently shown up as more than multitalented. From the onset of his career, he has taken his audience through various seasons of himself, of which I believe his sophomore album, ‘Heartbreak Hotel‘ marks a season of renewal, finding solace and coming back to himself.
Having attended his open listening session on Thursday, 15 March 2024, The Big Hash made some commentary on where he is at in life currently after dealing with a few disheartening experiences and how he felt that it was high-time for him to get his power back: “I need to go get my power back…and it felt very important for me to show people that ay man, you fall once you get up twice you know what I mean! … So you put yourself in a position to take every opportunity and make the most of it.” He showed his gratitude towards Sony Music at length as well as all who attended.
It is seldom that one gets to indulge in a body of work from start to finish, enjoying and taking in the flow of the project. ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ is just that, however with a few outstanding tracks such as ‘ONE DAY’, ‘EIGHT SUMMERS’, ‘SO SWEET’, ‘THAT’S WASSUP’, ‘BLUE BUCKS’ and ‘FINGERS’. Essentially delivering a body of work that is both emotionally resonant and sonically captivating.
There is a deep unspoken intentionality with the structure of the album of which brings us to the first single. The first song off the track list is ‘ONE DAY’ which features American singer, songwriter and rapper, Kaash Paige. The Big Hash has made several audacious moves throughout his career and this collaboration is not far from it. The vocals of both individual artists goes to prove how timing and perfection take centre stage in their collaboration for this album. The single sets the tonal value of the album.
Praise be given unto the various producers on the album and how intentionally The Big Hash selected each beat. Track 5, titled
‘SO SWEET’ features Imani Basquiat. The track takes on a trap soul feel and the beat is as smooth as butter, sweet as honey!
The Big Hash teamed up with Flow Jones Jr. in track 7, ‘BLUE BUCKS’. in plain, they popped off! Delivering a track that honours Hip Hop and is self-empowering.
‘THATS WASSUP‘ is a strong track with the most features from the album. Featuring the likes of YoungstaCPT, Tyson Sybateli, Thato Saul and ZRi. The big bad wolves of Hip Hop came out to play and didn’t miss a beat. The lyricism is genius and the flow is immaculate.
One of the album’s strengths lies in its ability to balance moments of introspection with moments of empowerment, through ballads ‘FINGERS’ is a beautiful track and features the strong vocals of Nana Atta as well as Kashcpt. Its one of the tracks that create a subtle contrast in the album.
The growth that The Big Hash has endured throughout his career, has sprouted him into an influential Hip Hop figure earning nods and praise for his talent. ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ being his sophomore independent album after his debut album ‘Better Late Than Never‘ which reached #1 on Apple Music has proven yet another monumental moment for his career. Overall, “Heartbreak Hotel” is a compelling body of work that showcases The Big Hash’s growth as a person. With its honest lyricism, innovative production, and emotional depth, the album is sure to resonate with fans old and new alike.
Listen to “Heartbreak Hotel” by The Big Hash below:
