This has been the raging question since the passing of legendary South African musician Jabulani Tsambo (aka Hip Hop Pantsula aka HHP), who is known for providing the soundtrack for everyone’s favourite season.
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The custodian of the icons legacy, his wife Lerato Sengadi, celebrates the late legends 41st Birthday by releasing a remix to a previously recorded song but this time featuring the “Ke Star” hitmaker Focalistic and produced by longtime collaborator Thasman.
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The surprise birthday drop was Lerato’s brainchild, her way to celebrate the rappers milestone birthday as well as over 20 years in the industry. The multiple Lifetime Achievement Awards recipient entrusted his wife with looking after his work and legacy and in true Jabba fashion, left her with a trove of gems that fans will enjoy for many years to come.
Lerato had this to say:
Why did you decide to do this remix?
It was important for me to celebrate my husband in a way that’s fitting for the King that he is. The idea to do the remix itself was a gift from him and everything that transpired after I made the decision to do this was a sign of the anointing of this release.
It has been an extremely difficult year for everyone so I thought let this year not be the year they ask (again) #WhatWouldSummerBeWithoutJabba?
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Why did you select Focalistic to feature on the song?
I remember hearing Focalistic for the first time & I was taken aback by how much he reminded me of Motho. I remember also thinking it would have been so dope if they could have been on a track together. When you listen to Focalistic there is a very familiar authenticity that is very reminiscent of Jabba and who he was as an artist. Focalistic’s energy is incredible, his talent undeniable & I know Motho would absolutely be passing on the baton to him. Personally, especially after meeting him in person, I know I made the right choice in this monumental collaboration.
And when it came to bringing my vision to life there was only person for the job, Thasman. Thaso’s role in Jabba’s career is undeniable. The two were a power duo and a force, having created countless hits together.
What was the energy in studio like during the recording of the song?
To say that the entire processes was anointed is an understatement. The energy was magical, the space filled with so much love & Jabba was definitely with us. It was just so beautiful!
Can fans expect more music from the legend?
Absolutely. Modimo & Badimo willing I will be able to preserve this legacy which is extremely important not just to South African music but the entertainment industry as a whole. Creating this song was a labor of love for me, a symbol of my loyalty and a token of appreciation to his fans who have held him high for over two decades. I am a mere vessel chosen to keep flying his flag high.
Focalistic had this to say:
How do you feel about being on this track?
For me this is a moment anointed by God! I used to drive a red Proton and it didn’t have a USB port or Bluetooth or AUX, it only used to play CDs. And I always used to play “YBA 2 NW” (HHP’s 4th studio album). And I’ve said from then and I say it still, HHP will forever be in my top 3 and definitely number one!
What does this moment mean to you?
Firstly its crazy to recreate a moment that you never thought would happen and secondly to come out with such a beautiful song that you can be proud of for years to come, even post mortem! For me it was an anointed moment!
I’d like to thank Lerato & I’d like to thank Thasman! Making the song with Thasman made it a hundred times more beautiful!
Any message for Jabba?
I can feel Jabba’s spirit in the air EVERYDAY and I’m so glad we could create this moment. And I can’t wait for people to hear it & enjoy it! We got summer on smash!! WHAT WOULD SUMMER BE WITHOUT JABBA!!!???
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