Ma Ka Boi, also known as StrictlyBK, is a South African music as a record producer, songwriter, and label owner. Her unique sound blends hip-hop with African rhythms, showcasing her versatility and creativity. Notable tracks from her growing catalog include “Kula,” featuring TheKidsNextDoor, and the star-studded “Tjina,” which boasts appearances from Sizwe Alakine, Phantom Steeze, and others. As a female producer in a male-dominated industry, Ma Ka Boi continues to break barriers and make her mark with bold, genre-defying productions. Her contributions are reshaping the landscape of South African hip-hop, proving that she’s a powerhouse to watch. With a strong passion for pushing creative boundaries, Ma Ka Boi is not only an inspiration but a trailblazer for future generations. Check out the interview we did with her recently.
Ma Ka Boi is your alter ego—how does this persona reflect your creative approach in music compared to when you’re StrictlyBK?
To be honest, uMa Ka Boi doesn’t affect my creative approach! I still do all that would be expected of me in a session whether production, song writing or being featured to rap/sing because when I’m working, I’m neither StrictlyBk nor MKB. I’m just me in that moment.
Your track “Kula” beautifully captures the simplicity and power of love. What was the inspiration behind producing this song, and how did you want the listener to feel when hearing it?
“Kula” is a collaboration between me and TheKidsnextdoor. It was inspired by a cute high school couple I saw together on a simple date; they looked so happy in each other’s company in that simple “jollaring” moment. There was no fancy food or expensive things just them kicking it and being in the moment with each other. A lot of the time, these days, we over complicate plans to connect with our loved ones sometimes resulting in less time spent. I wrote “Kula” to help remind people that it’s the connection that matters more than the material things!
As a producer and label owner, what is your creative process like when you’re crafting a track like “Tjina” that blends genres like Gqom with sharp lyricism?
It’s a different process for each piece of work or session. Sometimes I’ll start with the beat then match it with the right artist(s) and sometimes I’ll get vocals and build music around that.
“Kula” features amapiano influences, while “Tjina” blends Gqom elements. How do you balance different South African musical styles in your productions?
It’s not a matter of balance per say but rather urged by curiosity and just experimenting with sonics that compliment whichever base genre I’m merging another genre with. The dope thing about mainstream music right now, is that we are all using similar if not the same kind of sounds to create our beats. Everything is minimal and synthy making it more possible to merge elements of the different genres.
You’ve worked with diverse artists, including Paxton, Sizwe Alakine and Phantom Steeze to name a few. How do you approach collaboration, and what do you look for in artists when working on new music?
The most important thing I take into consideration when looking to collaborate with artists is vibe! Do we vibe as people first? Because the vibe translates in the music and what I look for is an artist that fits the direction and compliments the overall song in terms of their sound, rap/singing or production style.
Being a female producer in the South African music industry, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
I think the challenges I faced weren’t and aren’t a gender thing, The music industry is a tough place to navigate in the pursuit to making a name for yourself for any gender. I just had to remind myself that nobody said it was going to be easy and to keep working hard and focus on my goals.
With songs like “Tjina” becoming energetic anthems, how do you manage to keep your productions fresh while still staying true to South African sounds?
Honestly there’s no special formula, I just go with what I feel at the time of creativity. There isn’t too much thought into it, when something sounds fresh and dope, you just know!
As someone who wears multiple hats—producer, songwriter, label owner—how do you balance these roles, and which one do you find most fulfilling?
Fortunately, my team takes care of some of the label things affording me room to lock in creatively. Making songs is definitely more fulfilling!
Can you tell us about a project that was particularly meaningful to you or where you feel you pushed your creative boundaries?
Yes, last year I had the pleasure of working on Paxton (idols winner) album “23:23” where I was employed as one of the main songwriters, producer and studio performance coach. This album is nominated for best pop album at the SAMA awards 2024.
What advice would you give to up-and-coming producers, especially women, trying to break into the South African music scene?
Know that it’s not going to be easy! As a producer, you’re almost like a service provider. Artists can be difficult, but we need them as much as they need us. Don’t let your ego or pride stand in the way of your progress and your bag!
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