The Sunday News
Ngqwele Dube, Sunday Life Correspondent
IN Africa, the naming of a child has great significance with various traditions and beliefs attached to it.
Most believe the child will come to embody their namesake and the chosen names will carry great influence over a child’s life and that of their family.
It is no coincidence that trap soul artiste, Redbee considers that he is fulfilling his ‘‘destiny’’ that was bestowed on him when he was named Mhlabeleli, singer in Ndebele.
Named Babuse Tshabalala, his parents noticed his love for music as a toddler when he would pick up anything and try to create a sound out of it leading them to give him a second name, Mhlabeleli.
His father, Sibonginkosi “Mr Prince” Tshabalala, a jazz musician, said Redbee seemed inclined to coming up with beats and “creating” music hence the choice of the second name.
“We named him that but never put much thought into it on whether he would become a musician later, but it turned out to be his passion,” said Mr Prince.
Redbee, who produces his own music, started doing hip-hop at primary school in South Africa as they would craft poetry to make rhymes and like other teenagers would do “battles”.
The 28-year-old said he did not rush into releasing any songs despite recording many songs after acquiring his own studio.
“For me perfecting my music was important, I have been working quietly recording songs but I was yet to come up with something that I felt would make it in the market.
“I would say I was still finding my feet but I think I am now ready to get my work in the market and start performing,” he said, adding Albert Nyathi had encouraged him in 2010 to take his music seriously.
His debut trap soul offering is titled Complete Puzzle and was recorded at Shine Crown Music.
Two tracks, In Love and Mpande yesono are already getting air play while he has recorded the video for Get me now.
Other tracks that have been completed are Kick and Bhoboza, She got it, “ook at me now and Bhampa side to side.
Redbee graced the stage at the Bulawayo Carnival and received a warm response from the crowd.
“Complete Puzzle tells of the long journey and announces that I have arrived hence the puzzle is complete. I featured artistes such as Vinnie King, DJ Sparks and Busie in some of the songs.
“The album will be out in August with most of the songs having been recorded although they are yet to be mastered.
“I am in music for the long haul but will take it as it comes and hopefully reach a wider market,” he said.
