A car crash in 2004 that caused blindness did not deter a rapper from persuing his dreams.
Mario Laaistok, professionally known as Amigo, will be releasing his third single 29 on July at Utopia Café & Lounge in Cape Town.
This year has been good for Amigo as he also released his second single, “Always on my mind” in February. It was well received and was heard on community and commercial radio.
Amigo was not born blind, but lost his sight in car accident back in 2004.
“My love for rap music comes from listening to American rappers like Snoop Dog and Busta Rhymes. But my live changed when I heard Mr Devious. He rapped in Afrikaans and spoke out about the social ills in the community. That inspired me,” says Amigo.
Mr Devious was a famous rapper from Mitchell’s Plain who passed away years ago.
Amigo is also looking to secure his future outside of music by studying information technology (IT) at the Cape Town School of the Blind.
“When I am qualified I hope to work in the IT field as well as persuing my music. Musically I would like more people to hear and enjoy my music and have it on the airwaves all over the country. When I started the course I undertook the challenge of alone with public transport to Salt River. This experience gave me confidence and built my self-esteem. I want to get into the job market and provide for my family,” Amigo says.
For the past month Amigo has been hard at work, rehearsing with a full band in preparation for the launch of his single and for upcoming spring and summer festival shows.
According to Amigo, who raps in Afrikaans and English, young and old will enjoy his music. “My music is relatable, true and relevant,” he says.
For more information on the launch send an e-mail to rozzano.davids@gmail.com.
