Dope Saint Jude is a multifaceted female rapper, activist and filmmaker that addresses social taboos with her fresh and edgy Hip Hop. With a hint on controversy and an in your face attitude, we love the dynamism she brings to the table.
By: Fundiswa Nkwanyana
1.Who is Catherine Saint Jude Pretorius and who is Dope Saint Jude?
Catherine is who I am every day. I created Dope Saint Jude as an alter ego; she embodies confidence and fearlessness – everything I aspire to be. Nowadays, the line between Catherine and Dope Saint Jude seems to be blurred as I feel more and more comfortable embodying the characteristics of my alter ego.
2. What is the meaning behind your alias?
My parents named me after Saint Jude, the patron saint of hopeless cases. I thought it was a fitting name, and simply added Dope to make it cool.
3. You grew up in the Cape Flats. What are some of the challenges faced by the women in your neighbourhood?
Like most spaces in the world and particularly South Africa, my female body was not generally safe. I found that girls and women were vulnerable, and have poor self-esteem as a result. However, I acknowledge my privilege because my parents worked hard to protect me from these challenges.
4. The Cape Town rap scene is predominantly male-dominated; how did you claim your space?
I asserted myself and my presence. I declared my position and stuck with it.
5. What themes do you explore in your six-track debut EP titled Reimagine?
The EP is an accurate reflection of my life and the process of recreating my reality. I primarily focus on the practice of reimagining and recreating new realities for oneself through self-love, hard work and manifestations. Some tracks are playful and cheeky, others are whimsical and romantic, while others are downright aggressive.
6. You are the founder of South Africa’s first drag king troupe called Bros B4 Hos. What motivated you to start the group?
I wanted to explore and experience gender as a performance, and to experiment with different sounds. I found the process exciting, educational and empowering.
7. What can we expect from you in the future?
I will continue to produce rich and beautiful art that is an accurate reflection of my state of mind.
8. What do you love about being a woman?
I love that I am powerful in ways that are unexpected. I love that I can ride a motorbike and wear lipstick at the same time. I am blessed to have that kind of experience.
9. What is your motto?
My quality of life is based on my ability to be a person of action.
Here’s a little taste of her music. What do you think?
