It’s been a while since I found myself in a space that I virtually live
in, accept in this instance every online voice was live, kicking it and busking
in what was for most the beginning of a South African creative revolution. It was more than a clothing store launch. Not that we have many of those in our underground
stream but more so an artistic uprising, one that promotes
passion, patience and productivity.
What started as a brief check up chat with one of my close friends ended up as an impulsive decision to go and attend Siyabonga Ngwekazi’s PIECES WEBSTORE launch. Now for those who do not have the faintest idea of who he is then think Scoop, think Forever young if you not too familiar with his new work then think Street Journal however if you still in the dark then Google him baybay, I am here to speak about his latest body of work.
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We found ourselves a bit lost in Newtown and used Twitter feeds as directions. As we neared Coast Studio we started seeing what I refer to as “Boyz N Bucks” a popular phrase and clothing store that has erupted from this particular street culture. I'm talking about your hi-top fade & sneaker type dudes; your braids & flowy dresses ladies; the tribal prints on western garments… you know? The pieces. Naturally we followed the ant trail and arrived to the venue, the white walls brought life to light and resonated a warm welcoming feeling. A diligent bouncer stood neatly tucked at the door quick to spring up on you if you do not fill in your details. Siyabonga was out and about looking extremely calm and on the ball so I ducked him at every chance. A murmur of 100’s of voices reverberated as everyone exchanged conversations and chats. Strangers met at the bar ordering double shots of Fish Eagle dashed with Play Energy Drink, wine was also available and some opted for a crispier option in a Miller Genuine Draft complemented by finger foods. On a wall at the end of a dark passage was what seemed to be a last minute addition of a vague projection of the PIECES collection which demonstrated multiple textures and prints on anything from pants to jackets to caps. I saw spats of the masses gathering around the projector from time to time but most of them gathered further outside facing a door that spontaneously became a stage. The pieces of people who formed a crowd literally dictated the flow of events leading the performers outside.
The good vibes were in the system and LoveslavePhola warmed up the crowd with hip-hop jams that made the niggas curl up a fist, place it infront of their lips and burst out a “YHOOOOOOO!” in other words an involuntary reaction to a dope track. The floor became a dance floor through memory lane when she dropped tracks by 88-Keys and The Roots to name a few.
The door opened and finally Siyabonga gave a brief yet real speech, thanking the crowd for showing love, and emphasizing the strength of word of mouth, from the streets to online because that is where we at. He went on to introduce a hip-hop duo called WRAP and gave them a “here is the spotlight, don’t disappoint speech” and they didn’t. The thumping beats had the crowd thrusting their fists in the air while simultaneously shaking like a Lil Wayne seizure. On came triple O.G Bhubesii who broke into an accapella verse followed by a few more of his tracks. Ex Cream Cartel cast member and current Lucky Star ad wonder boy Choc hit the stage and put his lyrical skills on display. He was later joined by Ricky Rick to perform a track about popping pills and vodka.
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All in all it was a beautiful evening every one of us was a piece and we all fit together perfectly into one. I’m a little disappointed as the PIECES WEBSTORE is not up yet, It would have been dope if it went live on the night.
Written by: Lethabo Ngakane
Edited By: Phola Ayanda Gumede
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