Raptured Roots, made up of Ezekiel Ezek and DJ Kev Karter, has emerged as a powerhouse in Botswana’s Afro House music scene. Both artists had made significant strides as solo musicians before joining forces, but their shared vision and passion for music amplified their impact. Forming Raptured Roots marked the beginning of a collaboration that’s set to leave a lasting mark on both local and global stages.
From Solo Artists to a Dynamic Duo
The union of Ezek and Kev was a result of serendipity and shared goals. They connected through an international WhatsApp group for musicians, where they were the sole Batswana representatives. This platform allowed them to collaborate with global artists and share ideas, ultimately discovering their common passion. Realizing their potential together, they decided to form Raptured Roots, bringing their diverse instrumental talents to the table. Their expertise with keyboards and percussion allows them to blend Afro House with other genres, creating a unique, eclectic sound.
The Meaning Behind “Raptured Roots”
The name “Raptured Roots” reflects the duo’s innovative spirit and deep connection to their African heritage. “Raptured” symbolizes their determination to break away from industry norms and create a fresh, boundary-pushing sound. “Roots” highlights their musical foundation, deeply embedded in African traditions. Their mission is to elevate Botswana’s music scene by blending traditional African rhythms with modern Afro House beats, offering a sound that is both innovative and culturally rich.
Inspirations and Influences
Their Afro House journey has been influenced by the vibrant sounds of artists like Revolution, DJ Kent, and DJ Fresh. These artists exemplified how African rhythms could merge seamlessly with electronic beats, inspiring Ezek and Kev to add their own voice to the genre. Additionally, Afro House legends such as DJ Chrispin The Drummer, Ricky Lamar, and Black Motion played a significant role in shaping their musical direction, fueling their passion for the genre.
Individual Journeys
DJ Kev Karter was introduced to music in his childhood, growing up in a church-going family where music played a central role. His exposure to church music laid the groundwork for his instrumental skills, which later became a cornerstone of his career. As he explored Western music, Kev developed a knack for blending traditional sounds with contemporary influences, helping to shape Raptured Roots’ signature style.
Ezekiel Ezek found his musical calling through dance, captivated by the rhythms that moved him. His experiences as a dancer helped him appreciate the synergy between movement and sound, leading him to explore various musical genres. This connection between dance and music shaped Ezek’s creative approach, influencing Raptured Roots’ dynamic compositions.
Together, their backgrounds create a unique fusion of traditional and modern sounds, solidifying Raptured Roots’ place in the Afro House scene.
The Creative Process: Research, Experimentation, and Innovation
Raptured Roots’ creative process is rooted in research and experimentation. Each project begins with studying current music trends and pop culture, helping them stay connected to their audience’s preferences. This phase is followed by composition, where they allow their music to evolve naturally, fostering a creative environment that ensures their sound remains fresh and authentic.
Their music blends contemporary influences with a deep respect for their African heritage, creating a sound that is both timeless and relevant. This ability to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity has earned them a loyal following.
The Power of Partnership
One of Raptured Roots’ greatest strengths is their partnership. Ezek and Kev prioritize open communication and compromise, ensuring that their creative visions align. This balance allows them to navigate creative differences and continuously evolve as artists. United by a common goal of redefining Afro House, they remain committed to pushing the genre’s boundaries and reaching new audiences.
Notable Achievements and Challenges
A milestone in their journey was performing at the MAFTOWN BEER FEST 2019, sharing the stage with top industry names. Their electrifying performance resonated with the crowd, affirming their potential to excel in the competitive music industry.
Yet, like many niche genre artists in Botswana, Raptured Roots has faced challenges. Afro House is still gaining mainstream traction locally, and there are limited platforms for promotion. Despite these hurdles, the duo remains determined, relying on their creativity and networks to reach their audience.
A proud moment came when they produced Han-C and Charma Gal’s hit song “Itsatsaula.” Though they may not always receive public credit, they take pride in the impact their work has had on the industry, continuing to strive for recognition both in Botswana and beyond.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Raptured Roots
The future looks promising for Raptured Roots, with upcoming projects that include collaborations with unexpected artists. They are eager to explore new sub-genres within Afro House, aiming to reach a broader audience while staying true to their roots. Their vision extends to building a strong community around their music, using live performances and digital platforms to connect with fans.
Balancing their personal lives with their demanding careers is a priority for both Ezek and Kev. They focus on maintaining self-discipline and mental well-being, ensuring they remain inspired and connected to their art.
Raptured Roots: A Force to Be Reckoned With
More than just a musical duo, Raptured Roots represents a wave of creativity and innovation within the Afro House genre. With a deep connection to their cultural heritage, a passion for pushing musical boundaries, and a commitment to evolving their sound, Ezekiel Ezek and DJ Kev Karter are set for greatness. As they continue to explore new horizons, the world can expect nothing less than exceptional music from this dynamic pair.