Lil Ries' focus is on music

Mukhodeni Moshapo, known by his stage name of Lil Ries, is from Siloam village in Nzhelele and describes himself as an ‘underground’ rapper.

He has already released four extended plays (EPs) and more than 10 single tracks. Just like any other rapper from a rural area, Lil Ries also faces challenges, such as not being able to pay for studio time.

“In 2019, I started working with Bantu (Fhatuwani Tshidane), a well-educated and talented producer, engineer and singer who took me under his wing and gave me some studio time. After that, I grew into the industry without any complications,” he said. His song Legendary off is a favourite among local hip-hop fans.

Lil Ries finished high school in 2016 when he realised his love for music. “Well, I was fresh out of high school with a burning desire to make music and I remember talking to the likes of Tea Kay and Eskay, who organised my first studio session, and ever since that day I just kept going forward,” he said. “But, in simple words, I'm just getting started.”

Lil Ries also has his own clothing brand, called The Passover Clothing Line (T.P.C.L).

His music is available on all digital platforms, such as Spotify, iTunes, Deezer and YouTube. He can also be contacted on WhatsApp Tel 081 838 2293, emailed at [email protected] or followed on social media @Lil Ries.

Entertainment - Date: 21 March 2021

Maanda Bele

Maanda  Bele, born and raised in Nzhelele Siloam, studied journalism at the Tshwane University of Technology.

He is passionate about current news and international affairs.

He worked as part of the Zoutnet team as an intern in 2017.

He is currently a freelance journalist specialising in news from the Vhembe district.

Email: [email protected]