A photo of Excel Himself. Picture by. Hloniphani Nongauza
By Liyabona Leo Mbangi
17 November 2023
Born and raised in Port Elizabeth, EXCEL HIMSELF discovered his passion for music as a means of escape during his childhood. From sharing poems with a cousin to evolving into songwriting, his musical journey took off in Grahamstown in 2010. However, it was in Makhanda that his artistry truly blossomed, influenced by the vibrant local arts scene and annual National Arts Festival.
Musical Influences:
Growing up immersed in hip-hop, EXCEL HIMSELF found inspiration in artists like J.Cole, Priddy Ugly, Nasty C, Lil Wayne, and the vibes of Young Money. However, his cousin played a pivotal role, contributing to the 70% of the reason EXCEL HIMSELF is rapping today.
Evolution of Sound:
EXCEL HIMSELF reflects on the continuous evolution of his sound, emphasizing his ongoing journey to find the most authentic expression of himself. Presently, he weaves his experiences into his lyrics, striving for a genuine connection with his audience.
Career Highlights:
His journey has taken him to various places, and EXCEL HIMSELF's career highlights include sharing the stage with esteemed artists like Bravo Le Roux, Bhutlegend, and Big Zulu. These experiences provided him with valuable insights into the industry, leading to a heightened focus on personal and artistic growth.
Notable Projects:
Among the various collaborations throughout his career, "The Yungin" EP marked a turning point for EXCEL HIMSELF, offering newfound comfort in his music. Currently, his favorite project is the upcoming joint album titled "Eccentric," a collaborative effort with artist RONĐO that brought forth intense energy and valuable lessons.
Live Performances and Presence:
From opening for big artists to hosting his own shows, radio performances, and online podcasts, EXCEL HIMSELF's stage presence has evolved from initial shyness to leaving a lasting mark wherever he performs.
Industry Insights:
Interacting with established artists has given EXCEL HIMSELF a fresh perspective on the industry. This newfound insight has reshaped his approach, fostering a more focused and invested stance in his artistry.
Collaborations:
While having collaborated with numerous local artists, the standout project for EXCEL HIMSELF is the upcoming joint album "Eccentric" with RONĐO. Additional unreleased features hint at exciting future collaborations.
Visual Identity:
Leveraging his skills as a videographer and photographer, EXCEL HIMSELF enhances his visual presence. Proficient with the camera, his visuals complement his unique style.
Artistic Philosophy:
For EXCEL HIMSELF, music is a personal expression of feelings, experiences, and aspirations. His overarching message is to encourage artists to remain true to themselves, creating content that resonates with their unique journey.
Future Endeavors:
With upcoming projects, an album in progress, and plans for shows and merchandise, EXCEL HIMSELF invites fans to stay tuned for the next chapter of his musical journey.
Challenges and Lessons:
Reflecting on his journey, EXCEL HIMSELF acknowledges moments of losing himself while trying to fit into preconceived notions of hip-hop. His advice emphasizes staying true to oneself despite the multitude of opinions.
Personal Growth and Expectations:
Despite initial expectations, EXCEL HIMSELF embraces the journey, recognizing the significance of how people perceive you in the industry. He emphasizes making major moves, staying true to oneself, and always having a project ready for release.
Advice to Aspiring Artists:
EXCEL HIMSELF encourages aspiring artists to start small, build their profiles, and prioritize learning. His key piece of advice is to always remain authentic throughout the creative process.
In closing, EXCEL HIMSELF looks forward to the future, hinting at upcoming projects and a continued commitment to being true to his artistry. As he navigates the music industry, his story serves as an inspiration for those aspiring to carve their path.
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