“Reading All of Me felt like a summer afternoon breeze that began cool, heated you all the way through your core, then offered with a tall glass of ice-cold water | none of which did I know I needed. It reminded me of the complex layers of healing, bringing up buried emotions about past issues I thought I had already processed.
This collection of poems seems to find every nerve ending in your body, provoking deep thought, reflection, and raw emotion.
A must-read for anyone navigating personal growth and healing. All of Me serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and that no one has to walk their path alone.”
There were parts that made me say – man I wish I had a grand mother – and question – have I ever loved like that ? Do I even love ME like that?
I experienced every emotion imaginable while reading, and upon finishing, I was filled with immense pride for my friend Emily—not only for her ability to document her journey so honestly, but for sharing it in such a beautifully written, deeply personal way.
I highly recommend this book to anyone at any stage of their self-discovery or healing journey. It is a profound reminder that we are human, special, and absolutely not alone.”
In the heart of Jo’burg’s concrete jungle, a new rap sensation is rising with electrifying beats and razor-sharp lyrics. Known to fans as Smokie23, this artist is redefining the hip-hop landscape with a sound that is raw, authentic, and unapologetically powerful.
From the Streets to the Spotlight.
Born and bred in Johannesburg, Smokie23 carries the rhythm of the city in his veins. His journey began with a hunger for success and a passion for hip-hop that runs deep. Every rhyme he crafts is more than music — it’s a vivid story inspired by his personal journey and the realities of life in South Africa’s urban sprawl.
His lyrics speak to the struggles, triumphs, and dreams of a generation fighting against the odds. From gritty township streets to grand stages, Smokie23 delivers an authentic voice that captures the essence of hip-hop culture.
A Sonic Experience Beyond Boundaries.
Smokie23’s artistry is infused with infectious energy and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His music blends raw emotion, thought-provoking narratives, and hard-hitting beats into a sonic experience that transcends boundaries. It’s not just rap — it’s a movement that unites individuals from all walks of life under one groove.
“I’m more than just a rapper,” Smokie23 explains. “I’m a storyteller, a poet, and a visionary. My mission is to shed light on social injustices and untold stories that need to be heard.”
Spotlight on Six Strings.
One of Smokie23’s standout tracks, Six Strings, offers listeners a deeper meaning of words and encouragement while speaking on true life stories.
Inspiration Behind the SongThe track draws inspiration from the legendary guitarist Santana and the soulful resonance of Latin music. Smokie23 envisioned a fusion of hip-hop and salsa, asking a guitarist to play in a way that complemented the beat’s melody. The title itself pays homage to the six strings of the guitar and its wooden frame — a symbol of storytelling through sound.
Creative Process“The creativity of Six Strings was based on a Latino Mexican vibe,” Smokie23 shares. “Santana’s music was amazing, and I wanted to capture that energy. We built the melody first, then layered the guitar to bring the salsa essence alive.”
Favourite Line and MeaningSmokie23 highlights one of his most powerful verses:
> “Tore me right apart, start from small finish big, stay privately it’s permanent…”
For him, these words reflect resilience and growth. Each lyric carries a lesson: – “Tore me right apart” — life’s struggles can break you down. – “Start from small finish big” — success is built step by step. – “Stay private till it’s permanent” — protect your journey until it’s secure. – “V.O.S.P is on ice” — a reminder to celebrate milestones while staying focused. – “Young Smokie coming real slow in the game like Turismo GTA 5” — progress in the industry is gradual, like completing levels in a game. – “Homie I’m live, prove yourself not others, make sure you doing it right” — authenticity is key; tell your real story, not a fabricated one.
Through Six Strings, Smokie23 delivers a message of perseverance, privacy, and authenticity — values that resonate deeply with his audience.
Performances and Showcases.
Smokie23’s rise has been marked by electrifying performances across Johannesburg and beyond. His showcases include:
– Young Rebel Recording Studio – The Net – The Next Dimension 2.0 – Open Stage Recordings – Rhodes Park – Spotlight Sessions – Moscow Lounge
On-Air and In the Media.
Smokie23’s voice has also reached the airwaves, with live performances and interviews on:
– Kofifi FM (97.2) – Rebel Radio – Star FM
A Mission Beyond Music.
Smokie23’s journey doesn’t end with the beats. He is committed to uplifting his community, collaborating with local organizations, and creating opportunities for aspiring artists. His mission is clear: to be a beacon of hope for the next generation, inspiring them to dream bigger and push past limitations.
Connect with Smokie23.
Fans can follow Smokie23’s journey and music through his digital platforms:
@- Instagram (instagram.com in Bing) – Facebook – Instagram (Keenan Johnson) – SoundCloud – YouTube For bookings and collaborations, contact his manager at: queensharonpeters@gmail.com
Smokie23 is more than an artist — he is a force of nature, a visionary reshaping the soundscape of South African hip-hop. With electrifying performances, socially conscious lyrics, and tracks like Six Strings that blend cultures and inspire resilience, he is poised to leave an indelible mark on the culture. The revolution starts now.
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