On what would have been his 41st birthday, the wife of the late great rapper HHP, Lerato Sengadi, celebrates her husband’s birthday by releasing a posthumous remix to a previously recorded song that features new kid on the block – who’s been running it since he arrival – Focalistic, called “Nkaofa 2.0”
The newly released single is a repurposed version of HHP’s single “Nkaofa” off his 2014 EP, Do Not Disturb, Vol.1 Pt. 2. Affiliate and longtime collaborator, the talismanic producer, Thasman, handles the production on this version, as he had on the earlier version. Keeping the original vocals by HHP, Thaso adds a fuller, Jazzy component to the uptempo instrumental, which conveniently works well for Focalistic, making him a likely feature on a HHP record. His contribution works well, prompting one to imagine that if HHP were alive, he most probably would have relished working with the Pitori youngstar.
Much credit goes to Lerato Sengadi, who conceived the idea of a “Nkaofa 2.0” as her way to celebrate her late husband’s milestone birthday, which coincides with a celebration of over 20 years of him having made a mark in the industry. As a HHP’s legitimate surviving spouse, Lerato Sengadi has been entrusted by her husband with looking after his work and legacy, indicating that in her possession, she is the custodian of a trove of HHP gems that fans will enjoy for many years to come.
Speaking about the conception of the song and the decision to put Focalistic on, Lerato said:
“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?
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 one 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.”
Listen to HHP featuring Focalistic “Nkaofa 2.0” below:
