JR Maftown Heights Interview

Tabure Thabo Bogopa Junior,popularly known by his stage name “JR”, is a South African rapper widely known for his versatile abilities in music which include “Mostwako” rap.

Whilst most of his peers are still trying to make sense of the business workings of the South African music industry, JR is in the driving seat of his career – artistically and commercially and at the same time enjoying every ride as it comes.

Being the brains behind Boza’s Kitchen, a buy and braai spot, JR is also planning to create a similar setup in Soweto with the intention of having a solid business base outside of his music career. Behind the hard-core, streetwise business demeanor- JR is also very handy with numerous charity organizations with their social responsibility initiatives.

KoolForever is JR’s third successful studio album. The album received mainly positive reviews from the public as it has a mash up of Electric, Hip Hop and Kwaito. His first single “Phuma” got huge urban radio airplay but it wasn’t till he released the second single “Muntu” which was a mix of Pop , and ‘Mbaqanga’ that had the rapper on constant rotation on the radio as well as TV music channels. The album features the likes of Prokid , Shugasmaxx , Reason, Nokwazi , Cabo Snoop , AKA, Maxhoba , Louise Carver as well as Dj Dimples.

What do you think is the relevance of indigenous language in giving African Hip Hop a unique, exportable identity?

African Languages are our only source of identity in the world and the best way to express ourselves. We need to be able to teach the world our mother tongues just like we were taught English, we need to open the African gates to the world through our diverse cultures. And the only way to do that is through our African languages.

What are you looking forward to the most about performing at Maftown Heights this year?

I look forward to all my performances like it’s my 1st time on that stage. Like a Doctor, no client takes priority over the other. Lol. But I do enjoy the crowd and people who appreciate my music being there.

Why should people come see you at Maftown Heights this year/What can they expect?

Coz my shows get better by the year, so they can expect more and more and more…

Connect with JR

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/jrcolourfull?fref=ts

Twitter: @fcukJR

Instagram: @fcukJR

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FL2bVKtqyo4