Who is Dee Koala

Words: Nhlanhla Masemola

Adidas Originals ambassador and Cape Town-based rapper Dee Koala is getting ready to make her mark on the local rap scene. After releasing her 2018 hit single Whuzet, which features impressive bars and smooth transitions between isiXhosa and English, her talent quickly caught the attention of popular local rapper Riky Rick. He was blown away by her talent in a YouTube freestyle video, too, cementing her invite to perform at the summer music festival of the season, Major League Gardens.

Dee Koala is now steadily climbing up the industry ladder, touted as the one to watch by South African hip-hop industry heavyweights. What better fit to collaborate with adidas Originals on a super-fresh, streetwear-strong edit to step up your style game? Naturally, Superbalist caught up with the rising star to talk about Dee’s covetable style, her creative journey and what it means to be a young rapper in South Africa today.

If someone had to introduce you at the MTV Awards, let’s say, what would you want them to say?

Something along the lines of, “I'm honoured to be handing this award to the most talented, inspiring artist to date! Born and raised in Khayelitsha, Cape Town... Dee Koala!”

Why the name Dee Koala?

My real name is Odwa Situma. Since I never had a nickname, an old friend of mine decided to call me “Dee”. To be honest the “Koala” name puzzles a lot of people. Firstly, it's my favourite animal. I named myself after one, because not a lot of people are aware of them. Also, to me, the way they cling onto a tree resembles the way I’m holding on to my dream, what I believe in and the music industry.

When did you first encounter rap music?

Back in primary school around 2010 and 2011. My brother has good taste in music, so that played a role as well.

How would you describe your music to someone who hasn't heard it before?

New school spaza! It's raw with a bit of humour, but most importantly it's real.

What are your thoughts on the current state of hip-hop music in South Africa?

Hip-hop in South Africa right now is actually in a good place. It's accommodating a new, fresh sound. The kids are coming through with the heat. The industry needs to keep accommodating the new wave, because it inspires the existing artists and keeps them on their toes. The future is in the hands of the new wave.

How does it feel to be a woman artist in South Africa today? Does this come across in your music?

I don't know how it’s supposed to feel, but what I do know is that once South Africans know that you are talented, they are hooked! In my music, I do address the opposite gender so that they do at least feel intimidated.

Do you feel empowered or intimidated entering a male-dominated industry while being young?

I don't feel threatened or intimidated at all. I'm inspired by a couple of male artists but I’m more empowered by women, young or older, who are excelling in this industry.

Does being from Khayelitsha inform your music in any way?

My music is “khaltsha” and “khaltsha” is my music. I rap about everyday life through the lingo I’ve gained here in Khayelitsha.

Do you ever get stage fright?

Unfortunately not. I never get stage fright, because I love performing and being the centre of attention.

Who or what inspires your music? Are there any visionaries who inform your taste or confidence?

As conceited as this might sound, I do play a role in inspiring myself. My friends inspire me in a creative way. The township inspires my storytelling. There are some people in the industry who inspire me via consistency, relevance and originality – the likes of Sho Madjozi and Riky Rick.

Does the way you dress play a role in your music?

Yes. I'm very much into streetwear, bucket hats, sneakers, tracksuits. I’m like being comfortable in what they wear, but I also enjoy dressing femininely.

Stand a chance to dress like Dee Koala with an adidas Originals look worth over R5000. Click here to enter on Instagram.