By Gcwalisile Mhlabane (Intern)
NGCULWINI– Forging a distinct path in Eswatini’s dynamic music scene, showcasing individuality and creativity!
Leroy Humphrey Hoare, known as Kid Real, is carving out his own niche in the rapidly evolving music landscape of Eswatini, embracing various genres, including hip-hop, rap, trap, RnB, and Afro. He discovered his passion for music back in 2015 while still in primary school. Growing up in Ngculwini, he often joined his neighbor Chris, who would blast beats at home after school. Initially, Kid Real had no knowledge of music production; to him, music was merely something to enjoy. However, being exposed to Chris’s freestyling opened his eyes to the world of hip-hop.
“I remember being surprised by the idea of a song without lyrics,” he recalls. “Chris encouraged me to join him, and I went with the flow. That’s when it all started.”
This daily ritual turned into a passion as Kid Real began downloading beats on his phone and writing his own lyrics. His early attempts were rough, but he continued to practice and improve. One day, a stranger asked him and Chris to rap on a beat, and after their performance, he praised Kid Real’s raps, claiming they were better than Chris’s.
“That moment ignited my love for music,” he says. “I realized that this was more than just a hobby; it was my calling.”
Years later, while attending Mhubhe High School, Kid Real encountered fellow aspiring musicians who recognized his talent. They invited him to rap for them, and their positive feedback encouraged him to pursue music more seriously. One of his peers even offered to pay for his first studio session, leading to the recording of his track “Bring It Down,” which he performed at school.
“Music became my therapy,” he explains. “It helped me cope with anxiety and overthinking. Writing down my thoughts allowed me to explore emotions I didn’t even know I had.”
Despite his growing passion, Kid Real has faced significant challenges, particularly financial constraints. “I realized that pushing your music requires money, and my family supports my passion but can’t help financially,” he shares. Balancing school and music can be tough, as he struggles to find time to hustle for resources to promote his work.
As Kid Real matured as an artist, his music evolved from trivial topics to deeper, more meaningful messages. “I now write as if my life depends on it,” he says. “My music isn’t about materialistic things; it’s about my journey, dreams, and passions.”
He embraces various genres, including hip-hop, rap, trap, RnB, and Afropop, with the intention of becoming a versatile artist. “I want to be a jack of all trades in music,” he states. “I don’t want to limit my creativity.”
Kid Real has released two EPs and six singles, with several more in the pipeline. His upcoming EP, titled “Say Something, They Listening,” features five tracks that each tell a unique story. Among his favorites is “Yesterday,” a freestyle that showcases his genuine emotion and originality.
“It’s a song that calms you down when you’re stressed out,” he explains. “The fact that it was a freestyle showed me my true purpose in music.”
Unlike many artists, Kid Real writes music like a diary rather than focusing solely on crafting bars. “I want my music to tell a story and enlighten the youth,” he says. “It’s about honesty and good energy, not complicated words.”
His unique approach allows him to connect with listeners on a deeper level, capturing their emotions and experiences through his lyrics.
What keeps Kid Real motivated is the noticeable growth in his craft. “I often compare my current work to my old music, and the improvement is substantial,” he shares. “Hearing people talk about their favorite songs of mine reassures me that I’m on the right track.”
Looking ahead, Kid Real plans to release two projects this year, focusing on different themes. He is excited about collaborations with artists from various genres, including a Zimbabwean musician and an American artist. He’s also open to exploring alternative music and Amapiano.
“I can’t wait to dive into these collaborations once school is out,” he says. “Music is my passion, and I’m committed to making the most of it.”
Kid Real is not only connecting with audiences but also inspiring others to pursue their passions. As he looks to the future, his unwavering dedication to his craft promises to leave a lasting impact on the music landscape of Eswatini and beyond.
Stay connected with Kid Real at:
– Instagram: @kidreal_sz
– Facebook: Leroy Hoare
(Courtesy Pics)
