Thembisa rapper Alpha Skul shares journey, inspirations and hometown pride
Rising hip-hop artist Alpha Skul, born Nhlanhla Mabuza, reflects on his 13-year music journey, inspirations, and how Thembisa’s energy and community spirit continue to shape his career and dreams.
My name is Nhlanhla Mabuza, better known by my stage name Alpha Skul.
I’m 25 years old and I’ve lived in Thembisa my entire life.
Music has always been a part of me. Growing up in Goose Street in M-Town, a small corner near Kwajozi Pub, I discovered a passion for hip-hop that would shape my life.
What I love most about Thembisa is its energy and the way it nurtures creativity.
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The people support one another, especially in the arts, and that community spirit keeps the township alive with talent and ambition.
I’ve been grinding in the hip-hop game for 13 years.
My big brother, Trehvy, was my first inspiration. I remember him playing music while cleaning the house, introducing me to Cash Money, old-school hip-hop, and a love for the craft.
Later, I drew inspiration from international artists like Schoolboy Q, Kendrick Lamar, Ab-Soul, Jay Rock, and the whole TDE family of artists, whose words and flow pushed me to pursue my own path.
One of my proudest career moments was in 2018 when my friends and I recorded a track that was mastered by Tyler ICU for Voice of Tembisa (VOT).
Unfortunately, due to explicit content and unexpected heavy rain at an open mic event, we couldn’t perform that day. It taught me perseverance and the importance of being ready for anything.
Since then, I’ve released two EPs, It’s Never Too Late for Anything and Lone Wolf, available on Spotify, Apple Music, and other platforms.
Like many communities, Thembisa faces its challenges. Hate, ego, and lack of support among young people can hold us back.
I believe that if we unite, collaborate, and lift each other up, especially upcoming artists, we can create positive change and make our township stronger.
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A person who deeply inspired me was Father Justice, who passed away on February 3, 2023.
He always told me I had a special talent and compared me to Tupac, encouraging me to “speak the truth” in my music. His belief in me remains a driving force in my life and career.
Three words that describe Thembisa for me are legendary, underrated, and talented.
A unique fact about myself is my loyalty, something many people don’t see, especially in past relationships.
My advice, inspired by Father Justice, is to follow your dreams and always remember that you are number one.
Home to me is peace and happiness.
In Thembisa, whether at social events or just sharing moments with friends, there’s always love, energy, and excitement.
That’s why Thembisa will always feel like home. It’s where my music, my dreams, and my story began.
