HIP HOP PANTSULA

Based in Johannesburg

Hip Hop Pantsula (HHP), whose real name is Jabulani Tsambo, is widely regarded as one of South Africa's leading indigenous Hip Hop / rap artists. He performs in multiple languages, although primarily Setswana. His style of music is known as Motswako, which is the Setswana term for "mixture". He shares a market with artist like Tuks, Morafe, Molemi etc.

Raised in Mmabatho, HHP's break came in 1997 when he and his school friends met with renowned producer Chicco Twala who produced their debut album "Party". The band split soon after the release of Party. He then met singer/producer Isaac Methethwo who took on HHP's debut solo album. The result was "Introduction", an album that introduced a new, vibrant and innovative genre. The album was recorded in different South African ethnic tongues like Setswana, isiZulu and Sesotho, amongst others. HHP released his new album "Acceptance Speech" in December 2007. The music video of the first single off this album, "Music & Lights", features a couple of South African celebrities like Danny K and US R&B Star Amerie.

Pantsula frequently uses the phrase "Maf-town" in his music, which refers to his hometown Mafikeng in the North West Provence. He was honoured in September 2007 as one of the people from Maf-town who have excelled in their fields in the inaugural Maftown Golden Stars Awards held at the Mmabana Convention Centre. He was also awarded the Mzansi Music Star award during the inaugural Stars of Mzansi Awards in February 2008.

In 2007 HHP won the third season of the reality dance show Strictly Come Dancing, along with his professional dance partner Hayley Bennet. In 2008 he can be seen starring as himself in 11 episodes of the e.tv musical soapie Rhythm City.

HHP performs with backing tracks, or with his 12piece band. The band consists of 6 female (Bass player, Alto Sax, Trombone, Keyboard, 2 backing singers) and 6 male (Guitarist, Keyboards, Drums, 2 backing singers and HHP, the rapper). They have shared the stage with international stars like Will Downing, Angelina Kidjo, Jamie Cullum, Saul Williams, Snoop Dogg to name but a few.