Award-winning rapper Fifi Cooper recently featured on the popular “Behind The Brand” podcast, engaging listeners with her candid reflections on her life and music career.
Cooper’s enthusiasm and passion for her craft were palpable as she discussed the journey that has defined her unique place within the South African music scene.
"Everything has been great. I’m learning a lot about myself, I opened my own company and learning the business side of things.
“It’s challenging but it’s crazy at the same time. I feel like I am growing every single day, it’s the most beautiful thing and I am just excited for people to hear what I have been working on,“ she said.
Cooper’s musical roots can be traced back to her childhood, where she first showcased her talent in school and church choirs.
It was her father, a member of a live band who played the bass guitar, who recognised her gift before she fully acknowledged it herself.
“My dad discovered me ... He would play his guitar and ask me to sing and from there, the response that I got from him showed me that there is actually something special about my voice ...
“Even though he is not here anymore I feel like he’s looking down on me and is very proud of the person that I am today.”
Motherhood has shaped Cooper’s perspective on the sacrifices her parents made for her education and career.
“Now that I have kids, I understand why my parents used to be like finish school, but in the midst of me going to school and everything, they were still supportive and that fuelled my focus into putting in the effort in making the brand grow as well.
She initially started her journey as an RnB singer and eventually transitioned into rap —an evolution inspired by her upbringing in Mahikeng, the hub of Motswako talent.
“I think the fact that I grew up in Mahikeng, and I was surrounded by a lot of Motswako artists like Cassper (Nyovest), Khuli Chana, so that made me see that there’s a gap, there are no female rappers to represent where we come from.
“To me, Motswako is not just a genre, it’s not just hip hop, it’s me teaching people my culture, my language, so growing up in Mahikeng, I had to be that girl to represent ...
“The first rap song I did was a challenge, I took it lightly, but when I performed it, I realised it’s not just a challenge, this could actually be my life and what I am called for. I believe every talent is a calling.”
After fourteen years in the industry, she finds herself still standing alone as the only female Motswako artist, a position she hopes will change.
“I want more Motswako queens to come through, I feel that there are a lot talent out there and they should come forward. I am a trendsetter.
“I want to be remembered as that person who took a chance and paved the way for people who thought it wasn’t possible,” she ended.
Watch the full podcast below.