The latest installment in Emtee’s DIY series, DIY 3, is a compelling addition to the rapper’s discography. Building on 2015’s DIY EP and its 2018 follow-up, this third project continues Emtee’s journey through his life, struggles, and triumphs, delivered in his unique African trap style. Here are10 Things You Should Know About Emtee’s DIY 3, an album that blends introspective lyricism, diverse sonic elements, and Emtee’s unmistakable flow.
1. The DIY Series Legacy
The DIY series isn’t just a set of albums; it’s a personal project that marks Emtee’s growth as an artist and individual. Starting with the original DIY EP in 2015, Emtee used the series to give fans a deeper look into his life beyond the hits. Each release reflects his evolving thoughts, struggles, and lessons, with DIY 3 showing him in a more mature light.
2. Deeply Personal and Reflective Themes
DIY 3 dives into Emtee’s personal life and experiences, with themes of family, friendship, and hustle threaded throughout. His observations, drawn from life in the streets and personal hardships, resonate strongly in tracks like “BLESSED” and “LARRY BIRD.” This is Emtee at his most authentic, offering insights into what drives him.
3. Multilingual Lyricism
One of Emtee’s strengths is his ability to fuse multiple languages, giving his music a rich cultural texture. In DIY 3, he moves fluidly between English and local South African languages, making his messages accessible to a broader audience and reflecting the multilingual reality of South African hip-hop.
4. A Nod to His Role as a Family Man
Family has always been important in Emtee’s life, and this is evident in his work. On DIY 3, he dives deeper into the concept of family, both in the literal sense and as a metaphor for his relationship with his fans and the hip-hop community. The album artwork, created by Jr Ecko, highlights this familial focus, underscoring his commitment to loved ones.
5. An OG in South African Hip-Hop
Emtee’s journey from rising star to seasoned artist is captured in lines like, “I started a wave now they wanna surf,” on the track “LARRY BIRD.” This statement solidifies Emtee’s role as a pioneer in South African hip-hop, reminding listeners of his influence on the genre and his role in shaping the current hip-hop landscape.
6. The Hustle and Grind
Emtee’s music often speaks to the hustle and grind, and DIY 3 is no exception. His lyrics reveal the struggles he has faced and the determination it took to overcome them. Tracks like “GOOD TIME” and “KEEP IT REAL” are filled with reflections on staying authentic and grounded, despite fame and fortune.
7. Trap-Heavy Production with Diverse Influences
DIY 3 stays true to Emtee’s African trap roots but ventures into new sonic territories. The production includes trap beats, Afropop influences, reggae, and even R&B elements, creating a unique blend that gives each track a distinctive vibe. The album keeps fans on their toes with its mix of hard-hitting 808s and smooth melodic hooks.
8. Collaborations That Add Depth
Emtee taps into the talents of Saudi, Just G, and Nanette, who each bring their own flavor to the project. These collaborations add color and contrast, blending Afropop, R&B, and reggae into Emtee’s trap style. Each guest artist helps elevate the album’s diverse sound, creating a dynamic listening experience.
9. A Journey Through Varied Soundscapes
The album isn’t limited to one style; instead, it’s a journey through various soundscapes. Tracks like “AMANGA [READ THE ROOM]” explore Eastern-inspired beats, while “LIL NIGGA” takes on a tropical vibe. Emtee even shows a softer side with “WAKE UP,” which has an airy, sensual tone. The varied production reflects Emtee’s versatility and willingness to experiment with new sounds.
10. Confessional Storytelling with an Air of Wisdom
Emtee’s lyrical style on DIY 3 has a confessional tone, almost like he’s sharing advice or wisdom gained from his experiences. Songs like “BELIEVER” showcase Emtee’s introspective side, where he contemplates faith, resilience, and life’s ups and downs. His storytelling is more profound, suggesting he’s grown not just as an artist but as a person.
Conclusion
DIY 3 is more than just another album in Emtee’s catalog; it’s a reflection of his journey and growth. From his role as a family man to his position as an OG in South African hip-hop, this album encapsulates the many sides of Emtee. Through a blend of multilingual lyrics, diverse sounds, and personal reflections, DIY 3 stands as a testament to Emtee’s influence on African trap music and his dedication to staying true to his roots. For fans and newcomers alike, DIY 3 offers a rich, authentic listening experience that speaks to the heart of South African hip-hop culture.
