KwaMashu born rapper Skhindi has been bubbling under for quite some time online. Known affectionately as The Rapping Taxi Driver, he started making noise on social media through video clips of him freestyling, in which he raps in the distinct isokisi style while using modern hip hop beats. This combination not only made him innovative but it made him interesting, so much that he managed to amass a modest following online. This led to some of his music getting placement on the popular TV show Uzalo, as well as some of it getting played in TGF retail stores.
After releasing a string of well received singles featuring high profile artists such as “EMATAXINI” with Sjava and “KHANDA SHISA” alongside Musiholiq and Duncan, his latest single “EMZINI WEZINSIZWA” is the song that has proved pivotal in his flourishing career. It caught the ears of the folks out at Sony Music Africa who speak glowingly about the KZN native. Regarding what compelled them to pay attention to Skhindi, Sony Music Africa’s Senior A&R Manager Gavin Gutu had this to say: “The Skhindi signing was a no-brainer when his upcoming single popped up on our watchlist. The use of the ‘Emzini Wezinsizwa’ sample was an office favourite, and after meeting him, we knew we had a star on our hands. The rapping Taxi Driver is about to take over!”
In crafting the song, Skhindi joined forces with Dando and they flipped the theme song to the popular SA golden oldie TV sitcom Emzini Wezinsizwa. The show centred on the shenanigans of five men from different tribal and cultural backgrounds who all moved to Johannesburg to earn a living, now sharing a room in a hostel compound. The theme song was one of the highlights of the show and Skhindi sampling it is a sure nostalgia trip, adding to the appeal of the song, which explains why it has become such a TikTok sensation. “The song is about how we are united and wherever we go, they shall respect us.” Skhindi said about the song.
Reacting to news of his signing, Skhindi expressed his excitement saying, “Signing to Sony Entertainment Africa feels as if it’s been a lifelong goal of mine to reach this point. I’m honoured and just want to prove my worth.”
Listen to “Emzini Wezinsizwa” by Skhindi below: