He started out as a member of hip-hop group Morafe, then Khulani Morule went on to find success as a solo artist, becoming the self-styled motswako originator, Khuli Chana.
The name of the genre is derived from Setswana, meaning “mixture”. Its lyrics combine Setswana, English and other vernacular languages.
In November Chana released his sophomore album Lost in Time and its first two singles, Tswa Daar and HazzadazMove, became instant favourites on radio stations and tele-vision channels. Recently he was announced as a performer for the 2013 Cape Town International Jazz Festival.
Describe the journey of Lost in Time.
I’ve been lost in a time of making this album happen. Working on a second album after such a successful first can make you lose sight of all reality and disappear into a world of music. Hopefully, it will live up to the success of my first album [MotswakOriginator], or be more godly!
Being lost in that time has made me focus on nothing but my music, my fans and my brand. Now it’s time I let the rest of the world find it … find me.
What has the response been to the album?
Amazing — way beyond my expectation. I think people appreciate the fact that it’s nothing like my first album. Thanks to [my collaborators] PH, Victory, Sticky, Ab Crazy and KayGizm for directing the music, the fans are getting to know another side of me and I love it.
How have you grown as an artist since the release of your first album?
I have become more conscious; I respect the power of words. I have also become a better performer.
Why do you think motswako has appealed to so many,even those who don’t speak or understand Setswana?
It’s something like a phenomenon; it’s authentic and we are living proof that music is a universal language. I rap in Setswana but I have done more shows in KwaZulu-Natal than I have in Mafikeng in my whole career.
You’ll be performing at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival next year. What does this acknowledgment mean to you?
It’s an upgrade. I’m so amped to be performing on a world-renowned stage.
What has been the most rewarding part of struggling to make it in the industry?
The most rewarding part has been owning my music and record label after struggling to get a record deal.
We all have to get over obstacles and being an artist means that you put all of that into your work.
Does that make you a better lyricist? How does it add value to what you share with your fans?
I draw my inspiration from real-life experiences and it’s awesome that my fans can relate.
You have just done the third instalment of Maftown Heights. What was the idea behind it and how has it grown since its inception?
The idea behind Maftown Heights was to bring Mafikeng artists, new and old, together with Mafikeng people who live in Jozi. Our aim is to preserve the motswako culture and to show homage to our friends [fellow artists] of Maftown. This year was the biggest by far: sold-out tickets, bigger line-up, surprise act by the legendary Thebe and the best production one can ask for.
Who are you listening to?
Kendrick Lamar, Towdee Mac’s Lesson 1 and a vocalist by the name of Peven Everett.
Besides promoting your album, what else are you working on?
Without giving away too much … I’m working on a book, my snapback caps and a project to introduce new artists on my record label My Throne.