Kiddo CSA has hit all the right notes into the new year. He tells us more about his upcoming EP, how social media has helped launch his music career and his success tips
Ending 2021 with a nod for Best Emerging Artist at the VOW FM Awards in December, Kiddo CSA’s debut single, ‘HAIBO’ is enjoying much success. The single released just under two months ago, has already surpassed 100k views on YouTube and also made its debut on the Metro FM Top 40 charts on January 15th. He also
Share with us what your career aspirations were when you were young
I’ve always been big on “extraordinary” thinking. So, since growing up, I’ve always wanted to make music and take it up as a career.
What attracted you to music and which song or artist made you want to make a living out of music?
What attracted me to music was the freedom of expression through gathering past experiences and expressing them on the mic. It’s a phenomenal experience as I’ve always been fascinated by different sounds. I listened and got inspired by a lot of musicians, both international and local. Kanye West, Pro Kid and lil Wayne were some of my favourite rappers.
You released your single Haibo last year, which was well-received. What message did you want to convey through the song and was this the reaction you expected from the public?
The inspiration behind my debut single comes from the sudden surprise of my dreams coming true and everything happening at such a perfect time; hence, the South African expression “Haibo” and the public has been showing nothing but love for the song, which I am grateful for.
Tell us more about the EP you are planning to release this year, what else can people expect from it?
There’s a mixtape on the way very soon. There’ll be more music and videos, features and a new feel to the sound that describes who I am and different perspectives about who “Kiddo” is. I also aim to be on every platform possible.
What is your definition of success and do you feel you have achieved it?
I define success as living your dream to its fullest. That’s exactly what I regard as success. I am on my way to reaching success but I feel very blessed and grateful to being so close to it.
Tell us how you became part of the Warner Music SA family?
I had been working on my demos for about two to three years. I then met Garth Brown, the creative lead of WMSA, and showcased my stuff to him, and as they say, the rest was history.
Who, locally and internationally, would you like to collaborate with and why?
I’d like to work with Sjava because of the music he makes, it’s spiritual and warms the soul. He’s the greatest. Internationally, I’d like to work with Gunna & Don Toliver because I love listening to their modern sound and lyrics.
When you are not making music, what keeps you busy?
I read a lot to learn in every way possible to stay above sea with the new path the world is heading to.
How do you think social media has impacted and helped the youth in terms of their career or business goals? Do you think things would have been different for you if it wasn’t for social media?
Definitely, there are a lot of businesses that don’t spend a fortune on marketing anymore; it’s all on the internet, just use it to your advantage. Social media made it easier for me to connect with people all over the world and showcase my talent, it’s the same reason I got signed, worked on an international feature with Mick Jenkins. It’s been a very important tool to my career.
Lastly, what are your success tips for young people?
Keep growing, learning and evolving. Be around positive, hardworking and determined people. Be consistent in your journey. Remember, God is in charge, no one can ever really stop you from reaching your dreams unless you decide to give up.
Check out the music video of his debut single Haibo
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