×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Benny Afroe injects life into classic hip-hop

Benny Afroe. Picture Credit: Facebook
Benny Afroe. Picture Credit: Facebook

Like he's just stepped out of the '70s screaming "Black Pride", Benny Afroe is bringing classic hip-hop back to life.

His real name is Benny Riba and he was born in Middelburg, Limpopo.

The 23-year-old was heavily influenced by his father who is a bass guitarist, but it wasn't easy convincing his parents that he had chosen music as his career path.

From the tender age of 10, Afroe had already started writing songs on almost anything and everything around him.

But coming from Limpopo didn't make things any easier for him. He says many people misunderstood his artistry due to a lack of influences in his hometown.

Afroe describes his music as "swavy", a combination of different sounds.

"My father wasn't too happy about me doing music because it didn't work out for him. My mother was just worried if music would sustain me in the long run," says Afroe.

"I studied law because that's what my parents wanted, but one day I sat them down and told them that I can't be wasting time on something I don't like," he says.

It is no secret that many people make it in the industry without education but Afroe, though, believes in education. "Whatever you want to do, stay in school because everything works better when you have enough information on it."

With unconfirmed collaborations with Sjava, Afroe's debut seven-track EP called Jupiter is in the works.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.