A remix that almost happened
Imagine tuning into AKA’s smash single Lemons (Lemonade) and hearing a bold, unexpected verse from one of South Africa’s most recognisable radio voices. Well, that was almost a reality. Sizwe Dhlomo, known to fans as a presenter and occasional rapper under the alias Scatter Brain, shared that he and AKA had actually discussed a remix collaboration back in September 2022, before the late rapper’s tragic passing.
A candid DM reveals the plan
Dhlomo revealed a screenshot of their direct messages, where he complimented AKA’s original track and asked if he could remix it. AKA replied enthusiastically, welcoming the idea and even asking Dhlomo to share his number so they could plan it out. That energy and encouragement remain as vivid today as they must’ve been in that private chat.
https://twitter.com/AKA_Tales/status/1965137945234444498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1965137945234444498%7Ctwgr%5E0692714bbbc29edbfaf1fc372419b9ff1428bea8%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fbriefly.co.za%2Fentertainment%2Fmusic%2F223949-sizwe-dhlomo-shares-details-unreleased-song-late-aka%2F
Fans are buzzing
Social media has since exploded with curiosity. Many are now sharing how intriguing it would’ve been to hear Dhlomo’s flow laid over that iconic beat, a mash-up of broadcast finesse with raw hip hop emotion. The general sentiment is one of appreciation for the honesty and connection between two creatives, one who shaped the mic on the airwaves and the other who’s left his mark on SA hip hop.
https://youtu.be/RZBkgQup6Ag?si=Mvqhlbg_TxomEEB7
Why this matters in our culture
In South Africa, music and radio often go hand in hand; both shout into the void and hope to find listeners who feel seen. Dhlomo’s revelation doesn’t just hint at a lost track; it shines a light on the bridges between two worlds: broadcasting and rap, admiration and artistry, what’s said aloud and what could’ve been recorded.
A note on the missed opportunity
Of course the collaboration never reached the studio. Life intervened, as it often does. AKA passed away just months after their exchange. That stops the story, not our imagination. We’re left wondering how that remix might’ve sounded, how their creative energies would’ve blended, and what ripple effect it could’ve had across South African music.
Source: Briefly News
Featured Image: KAYA 959
