Interview With Big Star Johnson

Big Star Johnson was the winner of Vuzu’s famous Hip Hop show ‘The Hustle.’ The rapper has been all over our airwaves since coming out tops on the show and has released several dope records including his latest single featuring Aewon Wolf My Year. We got the opportunity to sit down with the ‘Get It’ hitmaker and this is how it went:

Where did you grow up and what did you say you wanted to be when you grew up?

In the East of Johannesburg, Tembisa 16 dirty dirty. I wanted to become a lot of things but a lawyer stood out I think.

What inspired you to enter the Vuzu Hustle?

My boi sent me the poster and one day we were chilling outside a dentist, then we decided to record the video and the rest is history.

In what way did being in the house help develop the artist we see today?

Being in the house allowed me to interact with other amazing artist with different technics and different styles of artistry which helped develop my style. The judges commentary and advice also helped me with focusing on my writing.

How has your life changed since The Hustle?

Audience reception of my music has increased immensely, the type of shows I perform at are those I used to dream of and I have worked with some of my heroes.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

From real life.

You are more poetic with your raps as compared to most of the Hip Hop in the mainstream today. How long does it take you to pen a song and what’s your creative process like?

How long it takes differs depending on the inspiration and the vibe where ever I am writing. The creative process always starts with the music before the words. I listen then I write.

When can we expect a full-length project from Bigstar?

Later this year, we looking at a winter release.

Who is your dream collaboration in SA Hip Hop and why them?

HHP, because I have always looked up to him but I have finally fulfilled that dream.

Where do you think SA music is best monetized?

Durban.

What are your thoughts on the current state of Hip Hop and what do you think could be done better?

Hip Hop in South Africa now is finally at the point where our predecessor’s wanted it to be but it is still on the rise. More corporates need to start waking up to it thou.

How has watching SA Hip Hop grow shaped your perspective on music?

The evolution of the SA hip hop scene shares a similar story to mine. As it has grown so has I as a artist. It has also shown that the underdog story never gets old.

How do you feel about Trap?

Trap is dope, but I don’t think it will last.

Top 5 SA Hip Hop artists?

1. AKA

2. HHP

3. Priddy Ugly

4. Nasty C

5. Proverb

Top 5 SA Hip Hop songs on your playlist right now?

1. Bigstar – My Year
2. Nasty C – Hell Na
3. Priddy Ugly- Ambitious
4. Speedsta- Celebration
5. Khuli Chana- Respeck

What advice would you give to an up and coming rapper?

Be prepared to starve for the dream, defend the dream and work hard for what you believe in.

Any word of wisdom to the youth?

God first, don’t do drugs and if your dream don’t scare you, you aren’t dreaming big enough.