Lamie Beukes: A Khoisan Rapper from Namibia
Lamie Beukes is the stage name of Heinrich Blom, a Khoisan rapper from Aroab, a town in southern Namibia. He mixes Khoekhoegowab, Afrikaans, and English lyrics in his music, which reflects his cultural identity and social issues. He is also known for his song “Lammie Beukes”, which is dedicated to his grandmother who raised him.
Lamie Beukes started rapping at the age of 12, inspired by artists like Eminem, 50 Cent, and Tupac. He recorded his first song in 2009, and released his debut album “Khoisan” in 2014. He has since collaborated with other Namibian artists like ML, Vikta Juiceboy, and RJay. He has also performed at various events and festivals, such as the Windhoek Show and the Namibian Annual Music Awards.
Lamie Beukes is one of the few rappers who use Khoekhoegowab, the language of the Khoisan people, in their music. He says he wants to preserve his heritage and promote his culture to the younger generation. He also hopes to inspire other Khoisan rappers to express themselves and their stories through music.
Lamie Beukes is currently working on his second album, which he plans to release in 2023. He says he wants to explore different genres and styles, and reach a wider audience. He also wants to collaborate with more international artists and producers, and showcase his talent to the world.
Rap music in Namibia is a diverse and vibrant genre that reflects the country’s multicultural and multilingual society. Rap music in Namibia emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s, influenced by American hip hop and local musical traditions. Some of the pioneers of rap music in Namibia include Jossy Joss, Dice, Jericho, and Sunny Boy.
Rap music in Namibia is often performed in a mixture of languages, such as English, Afrikaans, Oshiwambo, Khoekhoegowab, and German. Rap music in Namibia also incorporates elements of Kwaito, Reggae, Dancehall, House, and R&B. Some of the popular rap subgenres in Namibia include NAM Flava, Kasi Rap, and Khoisan Rap.
Rap music in Namibia has become a platform for social commentary, cultural expression, and political activism. Rap artists in Namibia address issues such as poverty, inequality, corruption, violence, HIV/AIDS, racism, and identity. Rap music in Namibia also celebrates the country’s history, heritage, and diversity. Some of the notable rap artists in Namibia today include EES, Exit, Gazza, KP Illest, Lioness, and Young T.
NAM Flava is a term that refers to the distinctive style and sound of Namibian urban music, especially rap and Kwaito. NAM Flava emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s, as a way of expressing the Namibian identity and culture in a globalized world. NAM Flava is influenced by various musical genres, such as American hip hop, South African Kwaito, Jamaican dancehall, and local folk music.
NAM Flava is also a brand name for a range of products and services that promote the Namibian lifestyle and culture. For example, NAM Flava Spice is a braai spice created by rapper EES, that claims to offer the authentic Namibian grill flavor. NAM Flava Camping is a self-drive tour service that offers an all-in-one camping experience in Namibia’s scenic locations.
NAM Flava is more than just music or products, it is a way of life that celebrates the diversity and creativity of Namibia and its people. NAM Flava represents the pride and passion of being Namibian, and the aspiration to achieve excellence and recognition in the global arena. NAM Flava is also a social movement that aims to empower and uplift the Namibian youth and communities through education, entrepreneurship, and entertainment.