TSHEPO Dladla, who is known as Sci-T in the music scene, is definitely the new hip-hop kid on the block.

Born in Mohlakeng on the West Rand in 1989, Dladla recently launched his music career with his debut Numero Uno.

In a tightly contested genre like hip-hop, Dladla will have to work even harder to get recognition.

His 18-track album offers inspiring, motivational and intellectual lyrics.

In defining his music style, Dladla says: "Since I was young I have always liked music of people like Cannibus and KRS One and PRO.

"My next album will be different because it will showcase my style and taste in hip-hop."

Dladla says his music is inspired by township life.

"It's about where I grew up in Randfontein. It talks about a typical story of any township and how youth try to have fun. Issues such as girls and materialism are part of the story."

The young rapper grew up in a family of musicians. He says the passion for hip-hop began when he moved to Thembisa, on the East Rand.

He began rapping in 2001, influenced by many hip-hop stars. In that same year, Sci-T wrote and recorded his first track titled Musical Classics that was professionally recorded in 2008.

Though he is not yet well-established, he has shared the stage with musicians such as Flabba, Mzambiya, Wikid, Mahoota and Dino Bravo. Most of his tracks are played on YFM.

In his album, Dladla has worked with Kay Soul, R-Senic, Paragon, Gryphon, K-Dog, Tha'beat Monkey and The Beataz.

Apart from his budding music career, Dladla has done television and film studies.