Bigstar Johnson has come a long way since being named the inaugural winner of Vuzu’s The Hustle in 2015. He tells us how he fell in love with music and his success tips
Tumelo Rakumako, affectionately known as Bigstar Johnson, has been hard at work nudging for your attention with hit singles, Look Around featuring Oscar Mbo and Fede Sho featuring Stino LeThwenny, ahead of his upcoming sophomore album Ceasar. The producer, hip-hop artist and songwriter takes time from his busy schedule to tell us more.
Give us a glimpse into your childhood. What were your career aspirations?
I wanted to be a lawyer growing up. But I found my passion for music early, too. I’ve always wanted to be on the stage anyway possible. I was involved in the Eisteddfod, drama and choir growing up. Good times.
What drew you to music, especially hip-hop?
The church, more specifically the Band in the church … The drums are even more specific. Then a group called Bone Thugs N Harmony introduced me to the hip-hop I love, and Eminem solidified my loyalty to the craft.
How was life like before you entered the reality hip-hop show The Hustle in 2015?
I was done with school and playing in a band. My life was full of rehearsals and a lot of outdoor football. I was content as a drummer because we were travelling to the country. I never chased fame; instead, fame chose me.
What lessons and experiences have you learnt over the years and are applying to your music comeback?
Your authenticity is your superpower. And your honesty will set you free. Too many people try to tell us who we should be and what to say. Don’t let them take away your light.
How has fatherhood shaped your view of life and refined your definition of success?
Fatherhood helped me realise that there’s more to life than myself and that we are here for a reason. Selflessness is an under preached character trait that only being a father to a precious baby girl can show you. Now, it is no longer about what I can gain, but it is about what I leave behind.
You recently released Fede Sho. What inspired the lyrics to your song and why did you choose to collaborate with Stino LeThwenny?
The lyrics were inspired by true life events. Too many people want to set your pace and tell you that you’re not enough, so the lyrics were inspired by that. I wanted to respond to that. I also chose The Do It Boyz because they are ( in my opinion) the freshest duo in the streets right now . I was a fan first.
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Tell us about the process of bringing your album, Caesar, to life. How has it been different to your debut album, Me, and Mines, and what can fans expect from it?
Caesar took a lot out of me. It took me being open and honest with self-first and then being willing to open up to others just as honestly and facing myself. Anyone who knows what it’s like to have an awakening knows that it’s not the easiest thing to go through, so Caesar is different because this project wasn’t planned. It just came pouring out of me.
You are now an independent artist. What are the challenges and highlights of being independent in SA’s music climate?
Independence is way more demanding on the artist but way more rewarding. Challenges are finances and time management, whereas the ultimate highlight is being independent holistically. It starts for the music but translates into life.
Share what pushed you to work with Oscar Mbo on your single Look Around?
I was not pushed into creating ‘ look around’ instead, I was inspired to challenge myself and create music that I love but haven’t fully expressed myself in. Deep house has always been one of my favorite musical genres, and Oscar Mbo is someone I respect within that genre, so it only made sense.
What else can fans expect from you this year?
More music, more visuals—more of me entirely. Being independent allows me the privilege to just let the music go when I feel the time is right, so more people can expect more. Peep the socials and don’t miss it.
Lastly, what are your success tips for young people?
I quote from the great Denzel Washington: “Comfort is a greater threat to success than difficulty. Without discipline, you will never start, but without consistency, you will never finish.”
