South African rapper Reason now known as Sizwe Alakine. Picture: Youtube/Screenshot
SOUTH African rapper Reason, also known as Sizwe Alakine, recently shared a deeply personal story about the heartbreaking loss of his son, who suffered from cerebral palsy.
In a raw and emotional interview on the “Choppin It With Budha T” podcast, Reason opened up about the struggles his family faced and the pain he continues to carry after his son’s passing.
Cerebral palsy, a neurological disorder that affects movement and muscle tone, posed significant challenges for Reason's family from the moment his son was diagnosed shortly after birth.
Navigating the complex world of medical treatments, therapy, and constant caregiving was not easy, but it was a reality they had to face together. Reason recalled how difficult it was when his son passed, reflecting on the deep sorrow he felt as they laid him to rest.
“When you’re standing at that grave and the casket drops – you need n*ggas,” he said, illustrating the magnitude of the grief that overwhelmed him.
Despite his personal tragedy, Reason has found comfort in his music, revealing that his latest album, “Audio 2D” (Dear Darkie), is set to drop on September 13.
Reason first shared the news on the podcast and gave fans a taste of what to expect from the new album. He shared that he returned to his rap roots, with collaborations that showcased his artistic versatility.
“Shout out to the South for reminding me that there’s a section of this rap that I could go back to and enjoy myself. I think that kasi rap culture might have saved me and saved my relationship with rap kings,” Reason said.
The album’s first single, “Elokishin”, marks a return to straight-up rap, with Reason emphasising that this project was all about bars and flow, not prayers.
“We are rapping, there’s no Imithandazo, no prayers. Please get that sh*t and tell me what you think,” he said, adding that the album was a dedication to the community that had supported him throughout his journey.
@Augustinmasedi348 commented: “This interview is gonna save a lot of starving rapper's.”
@princeii4847 commented: “Got so Much respect for Reason, this dude doesn’t get his flowers.”
@ssnc777 also wrote: “Reason, thank you for sharing your story. So impactful and inspiring. Sad to hear about your son’s passing. RIP to him. I can’t even fathom how much pain and suffering you had to go through to keep going after such an immense loss. sending nothing but love.”