Mbabane – Local hip-hop artist and media mogul, Mzwandile “Lution” Nxumalo, sat down with Eswatini TV’s Young Climber to discuss his extensive career, from his early days in rap battles to building the multimedia powerhouse, Kingdom XLR. The interview, which was premiered today, delved into how his diverse educational background shaped his communication skills and vision for the kingdom’s creative industry.
Lution, who recently returned from the United States, shared insights into his evolution as an artist and entrepreneur. He began by tracing his roots to St. Mark’s Primary, a public school, and later to a private boarding school. He said these contrasting environments forced him to adapt, fostering strong interpersonal and communication skills. “Imagine being too ‘hood’ for the BBS and being too BBS for the ‘hood’,” he joked, referring to his ability to navigate different social circles. He also noted that attending boarding school in a different country further broadened his perspective, teaching him empathy and tolerance.
From battle rapper to music sensation
Lution’s entry into music was initially accidental. He said he started writing rap lyrics not to record, but to excel in high school rap battles, which were a popular Friday activity among different schools. “I’d write my lyrics strictly for that,” he explained. These battles eventually led him to a studio near his boarding school, where he began recording. His songs gained popularity, transforming him into a “cool kid” who performed at talent shows.
Upon returning to Eswatini, Lution continued participating in rap battles. A pivotal moment came when he won a battle that offered a record deal with Claiming Ground Records as a prize. This led to his collaboration with Mosaic, marking the beginning of his professional music career. He recalled the excitement when Linda Lumafa played his first song around late 2008 or 2009, making him realize the potential of his music.
The evolution of “Lution”
The artist also explained the shift from his initial stage name, “Psycholution,” to simply “Lution.” He said “Psycholution” fit his battle rap persona, designed to sound “crazy or dangerous.” However, a hiatus from music to pursue studies at Boston Media House coincided with his foray into radio. During this time, he was commonly referred to as “Lution” on campus and on air, particularly through his show “The Liftoff with Lution.”
The name stuck, and upon his return to Eswatini after seven years, it had become his recognized identity. He also factored in the corporate appeal. “Would you sign a check to Psycho psycho? I don’t think so,” he quipped, noting that “Psycholution” sounded irresponsible for corporate engagements.
Eswatini’s hip-hop landscape and formal education
Reflecting on the Eswatini music scene in 2009, Lution admitted he initially thought he was the “only dope rapper.” However, he quickly discovered a vibrant hip-hop community with talents like Brio Intellectual of the Movement and Mosaic Courtesy. He learned about the different generations of Eswatini hip-hop, recognizing the rich history that preceded him.
Lution’s decision to study at Boston Media House was driven by a practical realization rather than a lifelong ambition. He initially wanted to be a lawyer, but average high school grades led him to pursue music. Influenced by YFM’s advertisements for Boston Media House, he chose to study radio, sound engineering, PR, and media law. Though he initially felt some subjects were a “waste of time,” he later acknowledged their crucial role in shaping his media perspective.
Embracing multiple roles and leadership
During his time at Boston Media House, Lution embraced various roles, becoming a student leader, radio host, and audio producer. He credited Kipo Intellectual for advising him to “volunteer, volunteer, volunteer,” which opened doors and provided invaluable experience. He co-established a formal poetry show called “Writer’s Club” and “Social Thursdays,” a game experience for students, making him synonymous with campus activities. After graduating, he became a co-manager and producer at the campus radio station.
A year off to study effective group leadership at Mananga College further honed his leadership skills. Lution learned the principle of “leaders eat last,” where the team receives credit for victories while losses are shouldered by the leader. He said this certificate played a significant role in validating his leadership abilities, particularly when he became a manager and later, for his nomination for the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP).
The birth of Kingdom XLR and global recognition
Lution’s passion project, Kingdom XLR, was born from a collaboration with graphic designer and co-founder Tiger in Johannesburg. They began producing work for Boston Media House from Eswatini, realizing the potential for a local creative agency. His unexpected return to Eswatini, due to work permit challenges for a job offer with Sony Music, provided the impetus to officially establish Kingdom XLR.
He candidly shared an early mistake of giving everyone shares in the company, but said they’ve since rectified it, maintaining a strong, five-year-old team. Kingdom XLR now operates in both the creative arts and corporate sectors, with a “Robin Hood” philosophy: “We’re getting cash from the corporate and we’re using it in the popular culture space.”
Among his proudest achievements, Lution cites the IVLP nomination, an initiative of the US State Department that identifies and invites exceptional leaders for exchange programs. He revealed he didn’t apply for the IVLP; rather, he was selected, a testament to the idea that “the right people are always watching.” This experience, focused on economic development through the arts, was life-changing. Lution was one of only 12 individuals from 35 countries in Africa chosen to represent Eswatini.
Cultural insights and future aspirations
Lution’s time in America offered significant cultural insights. He found Americans to be sociable and helpful. He was particularly impressed by their meticulous documentation of history through memorials, museums, and parks, from figures like Martin Luther King Jr. to significant historical events. He believes Eswatini can adopt a similar approach to immortalize its rich culture and heritage, fostering tourism and economic growth through art expressions.
Looking ahead, Lution credited his father for instilling values that have guided his career. He spoke about lessons that curb entitlement and foster resilience, which he now applies in his diverse roles across music, media, business, and community impact. Lution expressed optimism for Eswatini’s creative industry, seeing it in “safe hands” and believing it will be a catalyst for change and future growth.
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