SIX years after leaving their respective groups and taking a huge leap of faith by forming a rap duo, things are finally starting to look up for the Major Stunners, from Timothy Valley, in the northern areas of Nelson Mandela Bay.
Determination and perseverance paid off for the two members of the duo, Leroy “PapaLee” Alkensteadt (25) and Stanley “Versace” Tarentaal (22), after they recently gained a sponsor that enabled them to record with local-turned-international artist, Gino Lee, at his recording studio in Walmer, called River Road Records.
After releasing a few mix tapes, titled: My Verlede, Flex and Titanic and dropping an EP, Strewe na Beter, the pair is now working on their debut album, Nommer Voor Twee, which will soon be available on all major music platforms.
Alkensteadt explained that both belonged to different music groups, each with its own unique style and concept.
“We collaborated and worked on a few songs together, mainly storytelling rap and tight rhymes. Since we grew up together and only lived a few streets apart, we had the opportunity to see and talk to each other on a daily basis.
“We then decided to leave our groups and create the Major Stunners. We also made sure that everyone around us knew about the Major Stunners and what we do,” he said.
“I believe that everyone has a special talent and it didn’t take us long to realise that rap is ours. We just want to inspire the youth to follow their dreams and to know that you can achieve anything you want if you set your mind to it.
“The quote says that education is the key to success, but I believe that patience is the key.
“We live in an area where poverty and gangsterism have a negative impact on the youth. We have the ability to show them that there is a light in the darkness and positivity out there.
“I just want everyone to pull through no matter how difficult the situation is that they find themselves in,” he added.
According to Tarentaal, he was dumfounded when he heard Alkensteadt rap. “When I saw the talent and potential in him, I decided that I would leave my group and join him because our combined talents would be a major success, hence the name, ‘Major Stunners’,” he explained.
“My biggest dream is to help the community and inspire youngsters by doing what I do best. I also want to prove my parents wrong for not supporting and believing in my aspirations.
“I only get support from my fans and I am nothing without them. I also believe that with God by my side I can achieve anything, that’s why I’ll keep holding on,” Tarentaal said.
The duo expressed how grateful they were for the opportunities that were now within reach, after engineer and philanthropist, Sihaam Vickius, decided to become their sponsor.
Vickius, who hails from Sanctor, spent 15 years in Sweden and, upon her return, felt the urge to give back to her community.
“In pursuing this passion, I was invited to attend a function on Heritage Day, when I first met the Stunners. I remember hearing their set and being an old-fashioned music listener, I wasn’t too enthusiastic, until I saw the passion and love for their craft. I saw potential and we set up a meeting.
“I merely give guidance and communicate with producers in Johannesburg to give assistance where needed. These guys are so talented, they deserve all the help they can get,” he said.
“It was brought to my attention that even though the talent is there, they were lacking resources, support and equipment. Since I was committed to helping my community, I decided that I’d be that help and support because potential is vast and who knows what a little support and faith in one’s dreams can bring,” she said.
The two have also been receiving support from songwriter and documentary director, Gregory Jagers, who helped them secure a recording spot at River Road Records.
