Success in the cutthroat music industry, especially in South African hip-hop, requires immense courage and unwavering determination. Artists face overwhelming challenges and obstacles on their journey to the top.
However, for Scumie, the COVID-19 lockdown turned out to be a stroke of unexpected luck, providing a unique opportunity for her breakthrough. In an interview with Sowetan Mag, the Midrand-born rapper revealed that she discovered her passion for music at the young age of 14.
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“I was in high school when I realized I wanted to make music. I started by making beats and before I knew it, I began rapping to the beats that I shared on my SoundCloud,” she told reporters.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown restrictions played a pivotal role in Scumie’s rise to fame. It was during this period that she uploaded her debut song on SoundCloud, which quickly gained recognition within the South African rap scene.
“The first time I shared my song on SoundCloud, it ended up charting. I was just in grade 9 at the time. My name started becoming known. In December 2021, I dropped my EP, and by the 31st, I was already trending. I knew my life had changed forever,” Scumie shared.
Her EP’s debut not only catapulted her into the spotlight but also caught the attention of established young South African rappers. Blxckie and Lucasraps reached out to her, acknowledging her talent.
“All of a sudden, Blxckie and Lucas Raps were sliding into my DMs. I never expected any of this to happen. I couldn’t understand why people liked my sound or the way I rap. But then I realized that the game needed someone like me,” she added.
Scumie’s rise to fame during the COVID-19 lockdown is a testament to her talent and the power of seizing opportunities.
While the pandemic brought about immense challenges for the music industry, it also created a level playing field for emerging artists to showcase their skills and connect with a wider audience through online platforms.
Being an artist in the digital age comes with its own set of advantages. The ability to share music online and build a fanbase without relying solely on traditional record labels has empowered many aspiring musicians.
Scumie’s success story exemplifies how the internet and social media platforms can be used as powerful tools for self-promotion and networking.
