A Somerset West resident who had previously given up his day job to pursue his passion, of being a portraitist, has now returned to music as a rap artist.
Fabriazo Langford, also known as F.A.B, recently released new hits including “Lekke innie Kaap,” inspired by the Mother City’s warmth.
He explained his transition from portraitist to musician: “I have worked in both realms for as long as I can remember. Even as a child I was drawing and rapping. Magazine articles once labelled me SA’s fastest rapper. I’ve recorded music with Binnelanders’ Stefan Ludik and 7de Laan’s Sekoati Tsubane.”
He shared that drawing and painting taught him the true definition of art, which he incorporates into his music. Langford fondly recalled learning piano at West End Primary School, which helped him produce music. He draws inspiration from Afrikaans sensation Nicholas Louw, known for his descriptive storytelling.
“In 2021, after my divorce, I wrote ‘Lekke Innie Kaap’. My ex remarked, ‘Fab, you really need to get it together,’ and then added, ‘Want is mos lekke innie Kaap’. That phrase stuck with me, and the song practically wrote itself. The line, ‘Vat ’n drive van Grassy Park tot Strand on Baden Powell Drive’ describes the route I took to visit my children in Somerset West.”
Langford’s other song, “Stellenbossi Princess,” was inspired by his interactions with young people in Stellenbosch. He emphasised the connection between personal experiences and songwriting, stating, “Artists often grapple with emotions and past traumas. Creativity stems from immersing oneself in diverse cultures and personalities.”
Langford’s songwriting process starts with a catchy chorus, which he records as a voice memo and builds the rest of the song around it. He tests his music by driving around and gauging reactions. For instance, car guards in Stellenbosch danced, and patrons at a bacon spot in Strand enjoyed the music so much the owner offered his restaurant for the music video shoot.
“Lekke innie Kaap,” recorded by producer Shaney J, will be captured in a music video highlighting Cape Town’s beauty and its people. As an independent Langford plans to collaborate with local businessmen to help with the budget.
Langford hoped his tracks would become an integral part of Cape Town’s culture. He wanted listeners to hear themselves through his authentic writing and unique flow. Currently collaborating with a Macassar local on another track, he dreamt of working with big names such as Early B and JP van der Spuy. He loves music for its freedom and strives to use it responsibly.
For eager listeners “Lekke innie Kaap” is available for download on Bandcamp. For further details, contact Langford on 078 990 1860.
