Few South African artists have achieved as much as Prince Kaybee in the past few years. The DJ has risen from the ranks of the local music industry from being just another promising up and comer to a truly consistent hitmaker and one of the most recognisable names on the charts. The journey has been far from smooth for the musician, but he has done everything possible to leave a discernible legacy in his wake with hit album following hit album in successive years.
Moziak Magazine caught up with the president of the 4th Republic to speak about his latest project, as well as take the opportunity to quiz him on some of his most notable achievements. As is the case for most things these days, our interview was conducted virtually with Kabelo (the DJ’s first name) signing into Zoom for a brief conversation over the internet.
Hey Prince Kaybee welcome to Moziak, how’s your day going?
So far it’s been a solid one, I can’t complain. Thanks for having me!
We can’t neglect but to mention your new project The 4th Republic, how has the reception been to this record?
It’s been great to be honest. It feels great to know that your loyal fans have your back and from the moment that we debuted the work from this record it has had a strong backing almost from the get-go. So all I can say is thank you to everybody who downloaded, streamed and supported.
What was the theme behind the 4th Republic?
Well, I don’t really approach my projects with themes that need me to stay rigid and boxed in. Instead I like to speak through the music and through what I’m feeling like creating.
It’s been a strong couple of years for you at the top of South African music, and your brand is making waves overseas as well. How does it feel to be growing in this direction?
It feels great, I mean we always knew we were working hard my team and I and we had high ambitions, but to see it all come together like this is a proud moment for us. We don’t let it get to our heads though, we just keep up the hard work and accept the credits as they come.
How does it feel to get international recognition, like being added to Barack Obama’s 2020 playlist? Is that planned or just a reflection of your work?
It certainly wasn’t planned. I mean, it’s great to have people beyond South Africa’s borders appreciating the sound, but things like that [Obama’s recognition] weren’t planned or prepared, they were the results of good, honest talent and honest work. Whatever comes from that is always a blessing or a bonus (or both).
We also saw you on NPR’s Tiny Desk series as part of the Coming 2 America special performance. How did that come about?
We were all part of the Soundtrack, myself, Msaki Nasty [C], Ricky Tyler, and several of Africa’s most gifted artists lent their voice to this performance. It was just another opportunity to showcase the beauty of Africa.
