Driemanskap X Wiggle
Wiggle has known Driemanskap for a while, having collaborated on several exciting projects. Our relationship with the pioneering spaza / hip-hop group began through our mutual connections with the eclectic group Die Antwoord. Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting Driemanskap in our state-of-the-art showroom for an electrifying music video recording, capturing their dynamic performance in a unique and intimate setting.
The video, (at bottom of blogpost) now available on Youtube, showcases the group's energetic presence and powerful lyrics, enhanced by the professional ambiance of our space. To celebrate this collaboration, we hosted an exclusive screening on our impressive 6-meter wide screen, offering fans a larger-than-life experience of Driemanskap's latest visual masterpiece. This event not only highlighted the band's artistic prowess but also reinforced our commitment to supporting local talent and innovative projects, further cementing the strong bond and creative synergy between Wiggle and Driemanskap.
Driemanskap is a pioneering hip-hop group from Gugulethu, Cape Town, South Africa. Formed in 2001, the group originally consisted of four members: El Nino, Ma-B, Redondo, and Dla, though they are now a three-member crew featuring Ma-B, Redondo, and Dla. They are known for their powerful lyrics, energetic performances, and unique blend of Xhosa and English in their raps, which vividly capture the socio-political realities of township life.
Their debut album, "Igqabhukil’ Inyongo," released in 2009, garnered widespread acclaim for its raw and authentic depiction of life in the townships. Their music addresses critical issues such as poverty, crime, and identity struggles, reflecting the experiences and aspirations of South Africa’s youth. They are one of the pioneers of the Spaza movement, representing Cape Town with a rhyme style that combines their mother tongue, isiXhosa, with English and Cape Flats slang.
In 2005, Driemanskap participated in the Baobab Festival, where they opened for the legendary New York Hip-Hop crew Dead Prez, stealing the show. They were also commissioned to do a soundtrack for SABC 2's "Keeping it Real" show in 2006. In 2012, they featured in a global TV campaign for Reebok and became proud brand ambassadors for the South African streetwear company, Butan Wear.
Driemanskap's commitment to social justice and community upliftment is evident in their involvement in various local initiatives and youth programs. They are founding members of the NGO OutSpoken Initiative (OYI), which tackles social issues affecting youth in their communities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they partnered with Lumkile’s Book Joint to engage township children in educational programs.
One of the hardest working crews in Cape Town, Driemanskap have performed all over South Africa at park jams, community events, major corporate events, and festivals. They have shared the stage with prominent performers such as Simphiwe Dana, Kendrick Lamar, iFani, Khuli Chana, Cassper Nyovest, Femi Kuti, Alicia Keys, Dead Prez, and Wu-Tang Clan. They have also collaborated with South African music legend Ringo Madlingozi.
In 2013, Driemanskap completed two full European tours, performing at some of Europe’s biggest and most prestigious music festivals. These tours supported two international collaborative album projects: "KWAAI Worldwide" and "Cape Town Effects." Their second album, "Hlala Nam," has propelled them to the highest level of the South African music industry.
Driemanskap continues to make waves in the music scene, performing at significant events such as the Cape Town Electronic Music Festival and the Cape Town International Jazz Festival 2016, where they shared the stage with acts like Lizz Wright, Cassandra Wilson, Mafikizolo, and Khuli Chana. For those seeking authentic and impactful hip-hop, Driemanskap offers a profound and captivating experience. Discover more about this influential Cape Town rap band and their journey in the South African music industry.
