Focalistic on going global and hosting his first one-man show, ‘Straata Nation Address’

03 May 2023 - 08:00
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Focalistic speaks on achieving international success and hosting his first one-man show.
Focalistic speaks on achieving international success and hosting his first one-man show.
Image: Supplied

After travelling to different parts of the world, Focalistic now plans to celebrate his musical success with his day-one fans in his hometown. 

The Ke Star hit maker is set to host his first one-man show called The Straata Nation Address concert on June 10 at Centurion Supersport Park stadium.

“I feel very appreciative. To see your dreams come to fruition is always a big blessing. At the same time I am motivated to see how far we can go, because when we started we never imagined it would get us to getting sold-out shows in London, so it makes you wonder how much further you can take it,” he tells TshisaLIVE.

Though Focalistic has not revealed details about special appearances, he assures his fans they’re in for a treat. He’ll also perform a two-hour-long set of his catalogue.

As a student of late rap veteran HHP, the musician said he looks forward to making his inspiration proud and becoming an inspiration to other artists. 

“When we take it back home to Pretoria, we are making sure that the kids feel inspired and the inspiration is tangible. My music is a way of stretching out to my fans to motivate them. I want more people to be inspired and want to change more people’s lives through my music.”

Focalistic starting out his career rapping in English but has since acquired international success rapping in his home language. 

“Many of us artists were first introduced to hip-hop on TV, by other international stars. Amapiano came and saved us. This is our canvas as something that we relate to. So being able to do it, and do it at the highest level, is a blessing on its own.

“On a quest of finding our voice, amapiano has become a Southern African phenomenon. Amapiano has made it more comfortable to say things in my own voice. I’ve been able to morph into my true self.”

Today, Focalistic, who has dubbed himself “President ya Straata” (loosely translatedto “The streets’ President”) has become a prominent voice for the youth and wants to help other artists like himself make an even bigger impact. 

Fans have seen him perform and support artists such as Pabi Cooper, Mellow & Sleezy, Chi’cco and many other amapiano sensations from Pretoria — all in an effort to “cross-pollinate” their following to build a bigger fan base

“It’s a big movement. That’s why we push each other’s music, shows and all. There’s a lot of talent from Pitori, and we need to shine a light on it.”

Tickets for the Straata Nation Address range from R50 to R150.



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