King Lutendo is a silent but steady purveyor of South African underground Hip-Hop, with an already prolific discography that speaks to his tenacity as an artist.
His most recent seven-track offering, Heaven is waiting, takes on a softer tone than we’re used to from the rapper, but it really works to his advantage. Entirely self-produced, this record brings to mind the more vulnerable musings of Kendrick and Tyler, as King Lutendo delivers introspective thoughts on love and fate.
Born to a musical family, the now 31-year-old rapper and producer imbues his music with an arresting spiritual undertone, borrowed certainly from his upbringing. This and his Venda heritage, which shines through every one of his releases.
Opener “Heaven is waiting” is kinda hum-drum and downcast, as Lutendo slurs his words for epic stylistic flow. “A lingering scent, a kiss” is similarly restrained, with sparse melody and interestingly metallic rhythms that mimic Latin trap or reggaeton. More specifically, think “Gently” by Drake and Bad Bunny.
In fact, there’s an experimental nature to this offering that really likes to wander. Lutendo’s inquisitive spirit takes him places he’s never been before, uncharted waters, new genres, and it brings exciting diversity to his sound. “Naledzi swiswini” is just as daring, with a run-a-round structure that’s hard and heavy, while “All that has gone away” offers expert, innovative sampling.
King Lutendo deserves to feel as self-assured as he is on Heaven is waiting. All that hustle and all that grind is starting to pay off. He’s really starting to establish himself as a front-runner of the genre, and it’s thanks to his distinct sonic artistry.
