eKasi+ Channel 105 on OpenView HD will debut a brand new local Hip Hop series, Above Ground on Tuesday 27 October 2015 at 6PM.
Above Ground is a South African Hip Hop television show that takes the viewer through an enthralling journey by unpacking the social significance and evolution of Hip Hop in Mzansi. The documentary styled series connects both the front and the back end of local Hip Hop culture, showcasing various elements of Hip Hop such as dance, crews, ciphers, battles, graffiti, beat makers, DJs, fashion, social commentary and entrepreneurs.
The 13 part docu-reality series will be presented by the Hip Hop sensation Ndabaningi “Zubz” Mabuye. Zubz is an acclaimed South African rapper and lyricist who has been in the entertainment industry for 15 years. He started his first rhymes at the age of twelve and is rated as Africa’s Hip Hop ambassador.
“In the journey to diversify our youth programming, we are excited to introduce a brand new show that showcases and elevates the Hip Hop culture in South Africa. Local Hip Hop has come of age, it continues to give youth a means to express themselves in a powerful manner and its major cultural influence in undeniable. Above Ground captures untold stories behind our rich Hip Hop culture in a format that has never been done before.,” said Monde Twala, Managing Director at e.tv.
“I’m excited to be part of the movement that showcases the true journey of South African Hip Hop, where it began and where it’s going. Viewers will get a VIP pass to the talented artists what have made waves in the local scene” said Zubz.
Each episode will feature different artists who will take the viewers on a journey to understand the history of Hip Hop culture. Baloji Youssoupha will share his thoughts on Hip Hop in Africa. Shameema Williams will share her views about the “Social Ills” of woman in Hip Hop. Siyabonga “Slikour” Metane will discuss the Social impact of Hip Hop and how some of African Hip Hop artist use the platform. Khulu Chana delves deeper into the influence of Hip Hop collaborations while Proverb talks about the importance of unity in the industry.
About Zubz
After graduating from varsity he won a major battle at legendary club 206 and graced the stage alongside Talib Kweli, Dead Prez, Black Thought and Jeru da Damaja at Black August. His grooming as an award worthy artist started with his highly acclaimed first album/mix tape,Last Letta. He has gone on to pen three albums Listener’s Digest (2004), HeadphoneMusic in a Parallel Universe (2006) and the 2009 release Cochlea: One Last Letta. Throughout this he’s stuck to his definition of Hip Hop: True, Lyrical, Brave and wholly Zubz.
Catch the first episode of Abouve Ground on eKasi+, channel 105 on the 27th of October 2015 only available on OpenView HD.
