We Run The Streets lives up to its name

MPHO TLALE
Staff Writer | Thursday August 2, 2012 00:00

 

An initiative by the hip-hop clothing brand Mafia Soul, We Run The Streets, it puts together a group of young, energetic hip-hop artists to task to work together on the album. A total of 24 artists both female and male, from across the country have been roped in for the project.

The mixtape is an effort by Mafia Soul to provide a platform for young and upcoming talented Batswana as well as aid them in growing their brands as artists. Giving his hand and expertise on the CD is RB 2's Fresh Prince who assisted with compiling the album. The Executive producer for the compilation is Eureka the Coverboy, who is a household name when it comes to hip-hop.

Artists featured on the mixtape include the new trending kid on the block ATI who has been making waves and topping local music chats. Other artists that are also featured are Ozi F Teddy, Dramaboi, Willz, Tref and Legare, who have also been dominating the music scene, especially this year. Out of the 13 tracks only two songs are titled in Setswana. However, almost all the songs have a Motswako of both Setswana and English. One song that stands out from the rest is Maano which basically states that in life you can never run out of plans to make your way around issues that you come across. An album characterised by lively beats, the mixtape addresses different topics, including those affecting the artists themselves and people's lifestyle.

However, it is worth noting that despite its quality and the hard effort put in the mixtape, the influence of the beats and lyrics comes from the Western rappers. Some of the lyrics also contain obscene words only hip hop artists can get away with and have been doing so for a long time now. All in all the mixtape album is a must-have for hip-hop lovers and those eager to try new sounds.

The album was put together with the assistance of the Botswana National Youth Council (BNYC), Creative Affiliates and Stage Works Music Company.