A dream comes true for two young EL rappers

After a nail-biting East London Block Party talent search competition, two Eastern Cape hip hop artists have emerged victorious and will perform at the much anticipated Rick Ross Block Party on Sunday.

Bulumko Mapukata and Azola Matayitayi received the most likes, retweets and social engagements on Twitter after they posted a link to their music using the hashtag #ELBlockPartyTalent for the social media competition.

International hip hop giant Rick Ross will perform at the Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium on Sunday.

Block Party marketing manager Christinah Mazibuko said it was important to create effective and sustainable platforms for up-and-coming artists.

“There are so many musicians who are hungry to enter the music industry, who have the drive and passion but not the opportunity to expose themselves. The Block Party has a soft spot for young talent and wants to make sure they are featured at this huge event. Bulumko and Azola will go into our database for future events. This is about creating a sustainable chance at exposure for these artists,” said Mazibuko.

She said was impressed by Mapukata and Matayitayi's passion and professionalism during the competition.

“They are so ready for the music industry, because they are prompt and professional. I admire their passion. Block Party will treat them like all other artists and remunerate them and provide them with eight tickets for their friends and supporters to come and experience the event,” she said.

Mapukata, who was born in Butterworth and is known as “Slogan The Rapper”, said the opportunity was a step in the right direction in terms of his career.

“I understand the magnitude of this moment and with it comes a lot of pressure. I have to keep my eye on the ball and make sure that I am on my best form to perform on Sunday. This opportunity is a step forward for me in growing as a musician. I have been exposed to a number of performance stages and this one will be the biggest one yet, as it also features Rick Ross,” he said.

Mapukata said he was grateful for the opportunity to perform.

“They could have chosen anybody they knew. But they decided to create this platform which I think is so important for us as musicians on the rise. My aim to to make sure that I leave a mark. People can expect an energy-filled performance with heavy crowd interaction.” 

Mdantsane's Matayitayi said he had almost given up on music, until he won the Block Party competition.

“Growing up in a township where you are faced with many challenges, it is hard to believe that you can achieve things. I have entered many competitions like this before but never won. This is my first win and I am over the moon. I was ready to give up on music but the Block Party proved me wrong,” he said.

The Rick Ross Block Party will also feature Kwesta, Anatii, pH, Arni Soul and Reezyville among others.

Dispatch readers stand a chance of winning tickets to the Block Party. Simply tell us where the Rick Ross Block Party will be held. You can e-mail your answer and contact details to competitions@dispatch.co.za. The competition closes  at noon on Saturday.