The Mixtape Vol. 167

Hope Motlepa aka Greyy is a 20 year old rapper and DJ whose experiences outweigh his age. Having lived in Cameroon, Sweden, Denmark, Nigeria, Zambia and Iran, he now moves between Joburg and Cape Town, studying and making music at the same time. Although he's grown up with an affinity for hip-hop, his talents supercede just making music. He was a part of the adidas AREA3 campaign and is also a part time model. He seeks to engage with those like him - people who want to know more and are figuring out what they want to do too. He prides himself on never staying the same and lives by the mantra "never let them cram you." His personality shows in the playlist as well as in the short Q & A he had with us - check out it below.

Who influenced your sound?

I think most significantly Earl Sweatshirt and Goldlink. Their respective albums Doris and And After That, We Didn't Talk literally changed my life.

What did you grow up listening to and what are you into nowadays?

When I was much younger, mamzo (my mom) would always have Brenda Fassie banging whenever she did anything around the house. So, I listened to a lot of Brenda and my tyma (my dad) would play Oliver Mtukudzi. But I've lived on hip-hop forever, from Lil Wayne and 50 Cent back then, to ASAP Rocky and Flatbush Zombies today.

First album you've owned?

I think it might have been Get Rich Or Die Tryin' by 50 Cent.

What inspired your name?

"Greyy" like the feeling. My favourite time to be alive is when it's overcast or rainy outside. That's when I feel most at home.

Take us through your music, what's it all about?

I'd say my music is a story of me. I write very selfishly if that make sense. It's about the highest of highs and the lowest of lows and all the madness in between. Essentially, my music is a coping mechanism.

What can we expect in the future?

You guys can expect a lot of features and collaborations with local artists! Some DJ sets around Cape Town under "EISAN" and a little surprise EP in the early spring.

Who/What's in this mix you've made for us?

Some local talent, some of which I'm honored to say are homies. There are also some tracks that I just can't live without.