DJ Mo Laudi Speaks Up On Being Underrated In S.A And Gaining Success Overseas
Molaudi on how important Afro Punk Is to him.
DJ Mo Laudi Speaks Up On Being Underrated In S.A And Gaining Success Overseas. While most musicians in S.A are great successes just locally some spread their wings and are exposing their talent to larger audiences across the world, a good example of that is Ntshebe “Mo Laudi” Bopape.
Mo Laudi moved to London in 2000 to sharpen his musical craft and also works as a producer and entrepreneur. While gracing Paris the star founded Globalisto, a monthly social party based in Paris, and started to grow interest in South African music, inviting local acts like Tbo Touch, Oskido, Fistaz and DJ Sbu.
In 2013, Mo Laudi worked with the French Institute and the Department of Arts and Culture to create the biggest South African festival in Paris – Sharp Sharp Johannesburg- a event that features over 50 artists.
Laudi is set to perform at this year’s Afro Punk festival set to take place in Paris.
“I was into punk music since way back and someone called me ‘Afropunk’ as a nickname before we even knew the festival or blog existed,” says Mo Laudi.
“I love how people dress up in neo-Afro designs and are proud of their roots.
“It’s more than a festival – it’s a movement. I feel culture is changing and more people are starting to appreciate their own culture.”
Mo Laudi’s work often echoes his interest in social movements and political issues. He credits this to his revolutionary youth and a need to pay homage to musical legends.
“I grew up toyi-toying when I was a little kid. Politics, justice, freedom, social issues are congenital and they are a natural part of me.
“I’m not worried too much about being entertaining, or trying to be woke. I’m myself! The drum rhythm comes from our ancestors as a tool of worship; the rhythm I compose is a spiritual connection. Sometimes I have fun, sometimes I reflect deeper.
Source : SowetanLIVE
