Hip-hop artist Gigi Lamayne chats to us about her first album iGenesis and being a female rapper in a male-dominated industry.
By: Fundiswa Nkwanyana
1. My love for writing and music evolved into rapping. As a child, I used to enjoy music and writing; I would even add my own words and beats to songs. When I was a teenager, I started merging the two together, and became a female rapper.
2. I do not create music for money or bragging rights. Music is an underestimated medium as it can capture an emotion and unite a divided society. That is why I create it. This calling and passion keeps me awake at night; I can’t imagine my life without music.
3. It is hard to be taken seriously in the male-dominated hip-hop industry.
It shocks me that people don’t believe that as a woman, I can be better than my male counterparts. I have to work extra hard to gain respect among my peers, and I constantly have to prove myself. This can be tiring. But, I love the challenge because I want to change the preconceived ideas about female rappers.
4. My first album, iGenesis, is available in stores now. I had to graduate before I started working on my album; that is why it is special to me. It is a timeless album that features Proverb and Khuli Chana, among others. I am currently promoting it with the #GigiGoesGold.
5. My countrywide tour kicks off on 25 November. I will be taking my music to the people, and entering spaces where hip-hop does not usually go. I am excited to be interacting with my fans, and can’t wait to see how they receive my album.
