Female rapper aims high

Tafadzwa Zimoyo Entertainment Reporter
Upcoming female rapper Debra Mazurwi popularly known as D-Block Keislim is set to conquer the male-dominated genre through her energetic acts. D-Block Keislim whose live performances are impressive and well staged said she is here to stay. “I started rapping at a tender age and you know how the music industry treats you when you are a female rapper. Music is a universal language,  but it is just that young women are not given enough opportunities,” she said.

She recently performed at the Book Café and put up an energetic performance. She said she got her nickname from her fans’ comments about her energy.

“I got the name because whenever I performed I cause a stir. Fans then started calling me ‘blocker’, since I would have outshone other artistes on stage,” she said. The Braeside-based artiste, who has songs such as “Words”, “Killed It” and “Where my soldiers at” among others, said she is inspired by Missy Elliot.

“Who said women can’t rap? We have top international artistes such as Queen Latifah and Missy Elliot who have made names out of rap music. I like Missy Elliot because she is a force to reckon with.

“We have similar experiences of growing up in societies that did not appreciate much about rap,” she said.

Asked why she chose rap style of all the music genres, D-Block Keislim said it is about emotions.

“It is all about how one feels, his or her emotions, and how you can express yourself. Unlike many other styles of music, rap music is generally not sung, and lyrics are spoken and fuse with a musical beat. This music often consists of beats and rhythms borrowed from the soul, funk, or rock genres,” D-Block Keislim said.

Many musicians typically remix these sounds and rhythms, adding their own innovations, and often synthesised musical elements.

Unlike other music rappers whose songs are often known for their focus on controversial themes, such as gang violence, D-Block Keislim’s songs are social commentaries and motivational. She is set release her album entitled “Radio Silence” next month.