Sonkhe Dlamini, popularly known as Bab' Dlamini, is a multifaceted artist from Eswatini who has made a name for himself as a DJ, music producer, and podcaster. Hailing from Mbabane, Dlamini's musical journey began with Hip Hop, but his affinity for sound extends beyond any single genre. His passion for innovation and community drives his various creative pursuits, which include producing records, spinning tracks, and hosting insightful conversations on his podcast.
Dlamini's relationship with music started as an avid listener, with his earliest Hip Hop memory being Kanye West's '808s & Heartbreak', specifically the track 'Heartless'. He was also influenced by local old-school Kwaito, which demonstrated that artists could create compelling music in his native tongue. As his musical palate expanded, Dlamini began dissecting production elements beyond the vocals, developing a deep fascination with beats, samples, and arrangements.
Three pivotal moments defined Dlamini's development as an artist. His initial exposure to the local Hip Hop scene via radio broadcasts, attending events like Headcounts, and the decision to take his craft seriously taught him to bridge the gap between loving music and accepting the discipline required to pursue it professionally. These experiences instilled a desire to look beyond individual success and enrich the broader community.
Dlamini aims to foster opportunities for emerging artists and advance the local movement. He remains an approachable university student who enjoys witty conversation and spending time with close companions. His outspoken personality and strong opinions on various topics have earned him a reputation as charismatic, humorous, and fun-loving.
A major highlight of Dlamini's career was his debut at the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival, where he performed on a massive platform, representing his signature sound before a vast audience. This event marked a major milestone, confirming that his dedication could reach broader audiences. Dlamini draws strong inspiration from the siSwati proverb 'Sihlahla asonelwa', which emphasises the importance of remembering one's roots and honouring those who offered support along the way.
Dlamini's track 'Shimpilika' originated when collaborator Sean Cast sent him a demo with an existing chorus. The team selected 'Shimpilika' because it felt natural, authentic, and fitting for the sonic universe they were building. Behind the scenes, producing 'Shimpilika' involved navigating creative adjustments, including omitting a verse from Since2easy from the final mix.
As Dlamini continues to build his integrated career, he faces distinct challenges in balancing his artistic demands with the rigours of being a full-time university student. With a strong commitment to his artistic convictions, he seeks to construct a legacy that reflects his roots while resonating globally. His capacity to connect with people and spot concealed potential in raw concepts has earned him a reputation as a talented and innovative artist.
Key points
- Bab' Dlamini balances music production, deejaying, and podcasting while pursuing a university degree.
- He draws inspiration from his roots and aims to enrich the broader community and foster opportunities for emerging artists.
- Dlamini's debut at the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival marked a major milestone in his career.
