Brintz rediscovers his flow at Next Level Academy programme

Selected Zimbabwean hip hop dancers, MCs, beat makers, and DJs aged 18 to 35 have been attending the Next Level Academy programme at 7 Arts Theatre in Harare, running from the 8th to the 18th of next month.

The programme, returning to Zimbabwe after a nine-year absence, comprises workshops culminating in a final concert performance on Friday.

Artiste educators from the US, including dancer Lady Beast, MC Dee-1, DJ Nick Neutronz, and beat maker Krithi, have been leading the academy alongside project manager Aysha Upchurch.

Participants have been receiving instruction in arts skills-building and entrepreneurship.

One of the attendees, Bulawayo rapper Brintz (real name Brilliant Delani Ncube), has shared insights on what he has learned since the first day.

“The programme has made me go back to the essence of why I do this (rap). I was inspired to realign my values and personal conviction with my music. I’ve been able to learn from my fellow programme colleagues as well as learn from MC Dee1 himself, so the whole programme has been a learning experience,” he said.

Regarding the American rapper, MC Dee1, Brintz had some kind words: “MC Dee1 is a positive voice in the hip-hop space. His music, personality and authenticity speaks volumes and he is someone who is all about positive community empowerment and development. He has been equipping us with a lot of tools and knowledge to succeed and take things to the next level during this programme.”

“I have met a lot of people from the programme. From Bulawayo, there’s emcees like the living legend, Asaph, a young budding and promising emcee by the name Kereng, Noluntu J who has been putting in a lot of work, Iller Strator, a legendary emcee of note and this emcee who has a very distinct sound and voice by the name of Domain Aura. There are many producers from Bulawayo too who have been making crazy beats, MK beats, LAX Beats, and Leemzy beats.

“Also from Harare, there’s prolific emcees like VI The Law, Ray Kaz, Jason Gwanzura, Donne Jovi, Banshee, D Block, FKA Arcane, Dray Blvck, Dough Major and Dingo Duke are part of the programme.”

Brintz looks to move with more intention, conviction, and consistency areas in which he feels he has not been effective.

The climax of the programme will see the curation of the “Next Level Rap Concert” on Friday at 7 Arts Theatre and it will feature Zimbabwean as well as American talent where Brintz will also be performing.

– Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu