Rising R’n’B and hip-hop star turns struggles into sound
Thabo ‘CAMIL_13’ Matsemela (23) has found a way to express himself through music and hopes to spread positive energy and hope through his passion.
Tsakani – Thabo ‘CAMIL_13’ Matsemela (23) has loved music from a young age. He grew up in a home with religious parents, and said his family often sang together at home and in church.
“Those were the special moments I enjoyed with my family. My mother would play her R’n’B while we did house chores, and we would sing along. As I grew older, I started understanding the expressions and emotions of the artists we listened to,” he explained.
He is a versatile artist who easily adapts to different styles and loves experimenting with sounds. Matsemela primarily focuses on R’n’B and hip-hop.
“I get inspiration from my suffering and all the phases or struggles I encountered throughout the years. Honestly, our scars mould us into what we are, and in my songs, I talk about my life experiences and struggles. I pen all my experiences and turn them into music to better express myself and my feelings,” he said.
“I have always been drawn to music because of the affiliation I felt when I listened to it. Over time, I explored various sounds and themes, shaping my unique path,” he added.
He initially started writing music at the age of 10 while at Lebone Primary School. Some other kids also loved music and would have small cyphers during lunch time, showing off their rap skills and talent.
Matsemela looks up to Zoocci Coke Dope, Nasty C, Tyler The Creator and Toss. He has released and worked on several songs available on streaming platforms, including his single, Leonardo DaVinci Freestyle.
“The single describes my life and the challenges everyone might be battling with. I am working on an EP titled Greener Pastures. The lyrics are about overcoming fear and finding light in life. It is due to drop this year; a date is to be confirmed,” he mentioned.
He aims to release his single, Water, next month. His vision is to spread positive energy and hope that will uplift people’s lives, restore faith and inspire them to do better in life.
“Music has become my source of comfort, creativity and growth,” he said.
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