From the background to the mic, local rapper steps into the spotlight  

Tsakani – Naomi ‘Samohtsamadhi’ Thomas’s biggest desire growing up was to become a DJ because she also wanted to be part of the music scene. She started making music in 2024 and is now making it as a rapper.

“I got into the industry as a model and video vixen, so I was always around artists and eventually got inspired to try it out. That is how I ended up becoming an artist.

“Self-expression motivated my path. I knew I needed an outlet to express myself and all the daily thoughts in my head,” explained Thomas.

Thomas looks up to artists like Doja Cat, Doechi, Chika and the late Brenda Fassie. She has worked with Ably Canvas, notbenjamin and Foreverlivingchris.

“I wish to work with Filah Lah Lah and Tyla. My first official song, titled Swag On, was released last June. It expresses the goodness that comes with looking good.

“I am working on an EP titled Trinity to be released on August 23. It is a six-track EP about my struggles and challenges as an upcoming artist.

“It tells a story based on what I have learnt so far, the emotions and things I had to deal with,” she added.

Thomas is also working on a docu-series that follows the life of a girl finding her story and voice in Johannesburg.

“It covers her creative process in creating her debut project and everyone she meets along the way who contributes to her story,” she said.

Her vision is to become the best and most relatable female rapper to come out of SA.

“My music landed me on the SABC 1 Expressions show. I make songs for the girls and the LGBTQIA+ community. My music serves as a reminder of who you are and as motivation to a girl having a bad day,” she concluded.

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