Rapper eMtee is loved and celebrated for his talent and mastering the sub-genre of hip-hop known as African trap. He is now soaring into new heights in the music industry with the release of his new album Logan.
Born and raised in Berea in the heart of Johannesburg, eMtee’s hometown is Matatiele in the Eastern Cape. The 27-year-old, whose real name is Mthembeni Ndevu, is undoubtedly one of Mzansi’s biggest hip-hop artists, composers, producers, and now an executive of Emtee Records which he founded in July 2019.
He discovered his passion for music at the age of nine at a Yeoville community school when he attended a talent show in 2001. He’s been part of music activities such as the school choir and the marimba band. He's also been a bandleader at his high school at Barnato Park High school, so it’s safe to say that music is really in his blood.
After the release of his latest album Logan, eMtee’s new work has received rave reviews for his growing artistry and the depth of his lyrics that resonate with so many of his fans. His album has landed the number one spot on iTunes. During our chat with him, he shared his biggest inspiration and why he has decided to build a legacy for his kids.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR CHILDHOOD AND FAMILY?
My real name is Mthembeni Ndevu and I was born on the 17th September 1992. I’m from a small town called Matatiela which is my home, but I was born in Gauteng. I’ve lived a little bit of my childhood in Matatiele before coming to Johannesburg for school – that's when I fell in love with music. I have a brother and sister. My little sister Phiwe is still at high school, and my little brother Luthando is a DJ.
WHAT WAS THE THOUGHT PROCESS BEHIND YOUR NEW ALBUM?
Firstly, I would like to say that it has been a blessing to have so many reviews and positive feedback from my fans and peers. The thought process behind the album and putting everything together was me trying to tackle more mature and sentimental subjects. I also wanted to show more versatility and ability to make catchy music with substance and fortunately, I had the freedom to do that thanks to being the CEO of my record label Emtee Records.
PEOPLE ARE CALLING YOU A MUSICAL GENIUS. HOW DOES THAT MAKE YOU FEEL?
When you do what I do, that’s not the title you aim for. I always aim to make good music as best as I can. If that’s how people feel about me, then I am humbled and grateful.
HOW DIFFERENT HAS IT BEEN PRODUCING YOUR ALBUM NOW THAT YOU’RE THE CEO?
In terms of the financial backing of course, quite tough and very challenging. But I would say it’s easier now because I have a better perspective, I get to see everything through, in terms of what the people love and what the people want from me. I’m better able to see and gauge the progress and that has been a blessing. Having to see the entire album through from the creative part to mixing and mastering. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do and I also get to apply the little bit of experience that I have.
YOU ALWAYS NAME YOUR ALBUM BASED ON PEOPLE THAT ARE DEAR TO YOU, WHY IS THAT?
Firstly, I cherish the life of both my sons, they’ve been a huge blessing in my life because I‘ve learned to be more responsible. I’ve gotten to a point where everything I do is for them. I incorporate them in my music, to let them know how dear they are to me. I know for a fact that years from now my kids will listen to the albums and get to know how I felt and how much l loved them when they were young. It’s also to help people get to know me better as a father.
WHAT KIND OF LESSONS HAVE YOU LEARNED?
Firstly, I’d advise young upcoming artists to see everything through because I could say that I was one of those who were a bit ignorant and naive to the business side of things. What I wanted to do was to just get myself out of my situation, entertain people and make the best music that I can. Now in retrospect and having been through what I have overcome, I know and understand the real business of music. So from the get-go, one needs to pay attention to the paperwork.
Secondly, have confidence in your product, and put in the extra hours. No matter the number of followers you have and how much you think your music is dope, at the end of the day it’s what you’re producing. Apply the determination and discipline of professional athletes, and put in the extra hard work.
Thirdly to be mentally, spiritually, and physically prepared because a lot of people get involved in so many things thinking that it’s the right thing to do and is a norm for a musician or rapper. Many people have misconceptions about the industry, so it's important to have your mind right and have some sort of faith and spirituality as a foundation. That is very important.
WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INSPIRATION IN LIFE?
What inspires me always changes, but there is one constant – and that’s family. Now that I have my own family I get to appreciate it even more. The fact that I have to make a difference, I have to change the situation and make my kids proud and make sure they are living alright. Family is what inspires me the most, and they are the reason I am in the studio as much as I am.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THE NEXT 10 YEARS?
I want to see myself owning an established empire, Emtee Records. I’m also hoping to open foundations to give back to needy communities. I want to find more artists to grow and become a bridge for smaller artists to enter the game. I just want to carry on what I’m doing, connect people, and continue to build the legacy that I have started.
WHAT OTHER PASSIONS DO YOU HAVE BESIDES MUSIC?
Growing up I was passionate about basketball, I was near obsessed with it. Back then, I couldn’t afford popular sneakers like Jordans and other cool clothes. Often when we played basketball with nice communities like Sandton, we would see all the cool sneakers on other kids and always wished to have even just one pair. But by the grace of God, I followed my other passion of music and now I have all the Jordans I could want. The other passion I had while growing up was choir, yes, I was really good at it and I was part of the school band too. Music has always been there, it's always been in my blood.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO BESIDES GOING INTO THE STUDIO?
In my spare time, I like to hang out with my teammates and talk about our progress, where we are, and our plans for the future. I also like to go out, which doesn’t happen often now. I like going to the mall and doing something cool with my kids and just spend time with family. I also play a lot of basketball in my spare time.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE COLLABORATION?
The top two are with Wizkid and Tiwa Savage. I got the opportunity to go up to Nigeria to perform and meet some of Africa’s finest artists. I’m very much inspired by Africa, the people, the different cultures, and the continent.
PLEASE SHARE A SONG OR SOUNDTRACK THAT WOULD BE A THEME TO YOUR LIFE AND WHY
It has to be Twista featuring Faith Evans a song called Hopeful. I’ve always had that song in my playlist growing up, from the days of Samsung e250 that song would always be there – even now. It has sentimental value to me.
IF YOU HAD A SUPERPOWER WHAT WOULD IT BE?
To take away poverty. To change the situation of the poor in squatter camps and put people in brick houses. I don’t know if it counts for something but I imagine myself as that kind of guy that always wants to help people in need. My mom says I should stop always wanting to be the hero and save the day, but for me, I feel like that’s my main purpose in life. No matter how my situation is looking I always share my spotlight with somebody else.
IF YOU HAD TO CHOOSE ONE FOOD TO EAT FOREVER, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
I don't have a favourite meal but the last meal I would want would be anything gourmet or high-end. I'm trying to get to that level where that is all I'm having to eat.
EMTEE: A PROUD DAD BUILDING HIS LEGACY
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
May 03, 2021
Rating:
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
May 03, 2021
Rating:
