Dla Da Lastborn forms one quarter of Driemanskap, the Cape Town based crew that has risen to the top as the kings of Spaza Rap. Known for his cut-throat rhymes, punchlines and down to earth style, Dla took some time out to talk to HYPEmobi about the influence of Vernac in South African hip hop.
Van: How much does the fact that you rap in Vernac contribute to the Driemanskap image of REAL Cape Town kasi hip hop.
Dla: Before language comes communication and to tell you the honest truth, where we as Driemanskap come from, it isn’t just about your Riddles, Raps and Rhymes, it’s all also about the interpersonal skills as well, generally considering morals and values.
Van: Do you think you are leaving out a lot of listeners who don't understand Spaza by rapping in mostly Vernac?
Dla: I don’t think we are leaving out anyone, instead I believe that music is a universal language we are all familiar with, so if it’s music to my ears, I’m definitely moving to it.
We’ve been receiving warm reception from people who’s 3rd 4th 5th and maybe even 6th language is Xhosa, telling us that they can’t hear the content but they are definitely feeling the energy within, meaning that it’s moving them…Now that’s music to my ears!
To hear more of Dla, look out for the Driemanskap album Igqabhukil’ Inyongo, dropping in May 09.
