Local Lover – Kwaito’s newest recruit

On the cusp of releasing his debut project, an album titled Big Dreams, aspiring kwaito artist, known by the stage name Local Lover, says he is excited to finally be following the path he feels is his destiny.

“My dream is to make my music,” he says.

Local Lover (31), born Kasera Petrus at Rundu, says his career in entertainment began when he was a dancer.

Those who have known him for years called him Mzekezeke, as homage to the South African artist he used to groove to most.

Having always wanted to be an artist, Local Lover started writing songs in 2015, before he felt ready enough to start recording in 2021.

A few hiccups along the way prevented him from releasing his first ever track – the computer it was on crashed – but as a testament to his determination, he continued writing and recording, with the hopes of someday being able to call himself a genuine artist.

With music already playing on the airwaves, a few television and radio appearances, a long list of collaborations and a music video on YouTube, Local Lover is ready for the world to hear his offering – a 13-track album

‘Make Money’, the lead song on the album, is described as a typical Namibian kwaito tune with a new take.

It will be interesting to see what else he has to offer, as his full album features production from several relatively unknown mixers.

The artist’s musical inspirations are varied.

He says he loves listening to the likes of Tupac Shakur, PDK, Robert Matemwa, Capitol K and King Tee Dee.

Whether or not this influence will be apparent when ‘Big Dreams’ comes out on all major streaming platforms on 7 June is yet to be seen, but this new act is definitely a welcome addition to the local industry, which desperately needs some new faces and voices.

With some polishing and an expanded budget, there might be something there.

One thing is certain for him though, he wants the masses to give him a chance.

“There is no music without fans and there is no business without customers. Together we can do better,” he says.

– Anne Hambuda is a poet, writer and social commentator. Follow her online or email her annehambuda@gmail.com for more.