Free style with Skrillex

11 March 2016 - 02:34 By Leonie Wagner

The 17-year-old is seen dancing through the streets of Langa, Cape Town, to the international DJ's track titled Killa.Making school uniforms look like haute couture, the Grade 11 pupil confidently dances through his neighbourhood, attracting other kids, who then copy his dance moves.Fassie, the nephew of legendary Brenda Fassie, said that seeing himself in the video was "indescribable".He said: "The views blew me away; it was a great thing for me to be there. At school people recognise me and now I get calls from kids asking for Skrillex's number."The teen's musical potential was first spotted three years ago by nonprofit organisation Bridges For Music, which provides workshops and a mentorship programme for kids in townships.The organisation's Africa director and co-founder Trenton Birch said: "Siphe is a passionate, articulate guy who was not afraid to ask questions and there was an instant connection when we met him. It's all about the right attitude. Ego is a big problem in the industry and Siphe is very grounded."Fassie said: "It's a feeling I can't explain. I never thought I'd get to share a stage with someone that big. I remember watching him on TV and little did I know that it would happen for me."The two met when Skrillex performed at the Ultra SA electronic music festival in Cape Town last month and are due to meet again later this year. For now Fassie, who was not paid for his role in the video, only has the promises of future mentorship from Skrillex to hold onto.Fassie said: "I wasn't paid for the video but we spoke about things we could do together, we made plans - and when we meet again it will be something more productive."Regarding compensation, Birch added: "We don't think he should have been [paid]. The video was not about a business transaction, it was about two creative minds coming together and sharing a special moment. It's not always about money."..

There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.

From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.

For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.

Already subscribed? Sign in below.



Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.