Kane Keid Addresses Freestyle Discussion in SA Hip Hop: “Rappers gotta rap.” Kane Keid has entered the ongoing conversation about the importance of freestyling in hip hop, sharing his strong opinion on the matter. When questioned about the hesitation of many emerging artists to freestyle, he responded with a straightforward observation: “Rappers gotta rap.”
Keid recognized the current musical environment is varied, with some artists favoring melody and studio production. “I understand from some perspectives where, like, I’m more of a melodic rapper and I like to do my stuff in the studio, I get that,” he explained. “But rappers gotta rap, and I will not excuse the behaviour of not freestyling.”
This statement served as both a challenge and an homage to the hip hop community. Keid emphasized his admiration for those who are advancing sound and songwriting, stating he appreciates their contributions and knows many personally. Nonetheless, he maintained his stance on the culture, asserting the importance of performing spontaneously as a vital rite of passage in hip hop.
His remarks come at a time when freestyling is a divisive topic among fans and artists. Some view it as a test of performance skills that may not influence success in the streaming era, while others regard it as a critical measure of authenticity and skill that distinguishes seasoned artists from newcomers. Keid evidently aligns with the latter perspective.
He also expressed goodwill by giving a warm “shout to K.Keed,” who has found herself in the midst of the discussion after declining to freestyle during her interview on DJ Speedsta’s 5FM Hip Hop Nights.
