Meet the Artist

eX. The Artist is one of the newest rising artists on the South African music scene. Hailing from East London, and deeply rooted in his Xhosa culture but raised in Pretoria, he goes by the moniker ‘012’s Immigrant – an ode to his duality that reflects itself in the creativity behind his poetry and music. 

eX. The Artist dropped the single ‘Church’ featuring aMMo Kgoadi on Nov. 29, 2023. Following up, he released ‘Phezolo’ featuring UYIHLO and Ofentse on Dec. 6, 2023, and completed the trilogy release with ‘Muse’. ‘Muse’ was released on Dec. 13, 2023, featuring Wisdom Trust Forever.  

Meet the Music

‘Church’ 

One of the best parts of listening to ‘Church’ is how it takes you on a somewhat visual narrative journey just through audio. The lyrics feature a range of themes that coexist but are considered contradictions in the real world. Ancestry and spirituality are met with the idea of church and religion – a testament to how many African children have grown up. The Shakespearean references and poetic harmony tie it all together in a song that questions hope and tells the story of redemption or the potential thereof. 

Musically, the traditional-esque hip-hop beat gives the song its charm. The balance contributed by aMMo Kgoadi’s feature makes for the perfect listening experience that lacks nothing, too. 

‘Phezolo’

Lyrically, ex. The Artist has done it again. Known for how his songs can easily be mistaken for poetry, once again his lyricism and rap live up to the standard. ‘Phezolo’ in itself bares weight. It almost portrays the mix of emotions felt from the weight of the hustle. It is heavy in message and bass but in the best way. The vocal layering and UYIHLO and Ofentse’s parts also create an echoing sentiment that resonates with the listener. 

‘Muse’

Completing the release trilogy, ‘Muse’ is different from the previous two releases. With a lighter tone and message, the beat is encapsulated with gratitude. Wisdom Trust Forever’s vocals give the song a rejuvenating rhythm. An ode to inspiration, the song lives in the realm between nostalgia and the present. Of course, we can’t forget ex. The Artist’s impactful rap that holds the song down. 

Which one of ex. The Artist’s latest releases are your favorite? Let us know in the comments!