Let's jump right in. Tell us the story of how you got into music, and where you grew up.

"So I’ve always been into music ever since I was young, but if I were to pinpoint the time it was probably when I was about 9 years old. That’s when I started playing the violin, till I was about 13. I’ve always stayed in the Gqebs (Gqeberha) bro, but often went to Durban so my mother says, I don’t remember."

Your name, ELDOT, where did that come from? Was it a nickname that stuck or something deeper?

"As for my name, ELDOT, I actually started off as just “Liyama” 'cause I couldn’t really think of a dope stage name at the time, but I knew that I wanted to go by my name or something close to it. I later then changed it to “L DOT”, but was forced to change it when DistroKid either fcked up due to there being more than one L DOT or some kid hacked my sht dropping all his music under my name. I hope that kid eventually found LinkedIn. Anyways, that’s why there’s an E at the start."

What is one thing about the South African music scene right now that excites you the most?

"There’s an ongoing shift in the culture. No disrespect, but the oldheads are losing control/influence in spaces that should be run by young n*ggas."

COURTESY OF ELDOT

You mix a lot of your own music. What made you decide to keep that control instead of handing it off to someone else?

"My pockets were bleeding bro. That was slowing down my progress. Also I am pretty particular when it comes to how I want things to sound, so I’d rather mix it like *ss myself rather than pay someone 5 clip to mix it like *ss."

Walk us through the making of “SLOPPY JOE” with D BRUDA. How did that track come alive in the studio? Any funny moments?

"Uh if I remember correctly, it was myself, Kyle and Owam at my crib and we didn’t have anything prepared. We got some bezza’s then went through some samples and found some fire. Then Kyle cheffed the beat in like 5 min, nah I’m lying, but it was d**s quick, then yeah the rest is history."

What does the title "NOVA" mean to you, and what kind of energy were you trying to bring with this project?

"A nova is when a star is born, or I guess shines really bright. The spiritual meaning being new beginnings/transformation and light. It made sense for the project, especially 'cause it’s my debut mixtape and because of place I’m at in my life."

COURTESY OF ELDOT

What has the reaction been like since "NOVA" came out? Any fan moments or feedback that caught you off guard or made you laugh?

"It’s been pretty good. I know not too many people are tapped into the sound, but those that are and even some that aren’t, have liked what’s been put out. I guess a crazy feedback moment was when Stogie T was performing at the one room which is right by pembs’ place. So we got into our mojo jojo bag and planned how we’re gonna rap for him (laughs). We actually managed to rap for him and he gave us his number."

Are you the type who likes to take big risks in your career, or do you prefer to plan everything out carefully?

"Yeah I like to roll the dice. I think to succeed you have to take risks and if they fail you try another method."

If money was no object, what kind of crazy project or video would you want to make first?

"Aye I don't know bro (laughs)."

Compared to your earlier work, how would you say your sound has evolved lately?

"My earlier sound was largely inspired by “underground UK rap, UK rap” and that’s mainly because that’s pretty much what all of my homies were listening to it at the time. That's kind of when I really knew I wanted to be a rapper. Now my music has evolved into, well I don’t even know what genre to say it is really, but it definitely fits (under) the abstract/alternative rap umbrella. Pembs introduced me to this style of rap and at first it didn’t make sense to me. Maybe like drinking beer when you’re a youngin', but then I acquired the taste for it and it all made sense to me that this is how I want to express myself."

Outside of music, how do you like to switch off and recharge when you are not working on new releases?

"Reading. I used to really love reading when I was younger, but I’ve recently picked it up again. Watching a series or movies. I’m not really a movie type guy, but I’ve been getting into it of late. Sometimes I be feeling childish, but I like cartoons and anime all that sh*t."

What is the next big move for ELDOT? Is there something you are quietly working toward that we should know about?

"The next big move? I don't know (laughs). I’m dropping a new project either next month roundabout this time or early may. I don’t have a name for yet, but I ain’t gonna lie, I think it’s some of my coldest work yet."