The good thing about travelling solo is the opportunity to meet different people in different walks of life. For example, when I was strolling in Muzio Sabah in Malaysia, I was able to meet an artist who asked me to pose for a pencil sketch. I couldn’t contain my awe when he chose me as his model. Of course, I didn’t see anything wrong with it thus, I complied. After three days, I received my portrait delivered in the hotel I was staying in Penampang.
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| "Taking time to breathe at Maayo Hotel, San Remigio" |
This was the same story when I stayed for 3 days in Maayo Hotel, San Remigio, Cebu. It was one Wednesday morning when I was waiting at the pool for an early swim. The hotel pool opens at 7AM but I woke up early morning just enough to stretch and walk around the vicinity. What was remarkable about that day was the opportunity for me to talk to a rising Cebuano rapper and writer, Rajam.
Not all of us
knew about him. However, while I was browsing in Youtube months ago, I came across
his channel, and I was fascinated about his rap songs. Well, most of the rap songs
I heard from young Filipino artists are inclined into love and some others have
bad and explicit lyrics which do not truly appeal to me. When I listened to Rajam’s
rap, it was all about the unjust society, struggles of the poor, and his latest
song, about the pandemic. Honestly, it made me think how a Cebuano rapper who
writes good lyrics isn’t recognized in the local music industry whereas ones
who sing insignificant songs are idolized.
Anyway, I was humbled during the interview because he truly took the time to answer each question. Plus, he performed one of his songs, the COVID-19 Rap Song. I wondered how such a talented young Cebuano remained calm and determined in the music industry where competition is tight. After that random talk, I had a takeaway from him: nurture one’s talent, and to never give up what you truly love.
For Rajam, I hope that you will continue writing sensible songs that will inspire young and aspiring rappers, and to always love your craft no matter what your challenges are.
Here is my
Random Interview with the Cebuano Master Rapper, Rajam. I hope you can subscribe in his channel and show some support. Thank you.
I immediately looked up Rajam on YouTube and listened to his raps. He seems like an intelligent and sensible young man. I think he will create a good future for himself.
ReplyDeleteNice that you're venturing into interviewing people, Anj. That's something that I would also like to explore. And kudos to Rajam for using his talents in a more sensible way.
ReplyDeleteI have been following him on YouTube. My son is rap lover so I get to listen to him fromt time to time.
ReplyDeleteWe indeed have amazing local talents but our stages are still limited. We have overflowing talents in us we just need the biggest break.
ReplyDeleteGuess what! I've searched Rajam on YT and he seems so passionate with his niche and brings great knowledge to his words of wisdom. I think he can do great more!
ReplyDeleteMeeting people and listening to their stories is one of the best things about traveling. It is also one of the things I miss the most when traveling, Anj. I haven't heard of him but I will definitely check him out. P.S. I am a frustrated rapper. Nyahahaha.
ReplyDeleteIt's so cool that you got to interview a rapper. I hope local talents get more opportunities to shine! (To be fair, there's YouTube and TikTok now...)
ReplyDeleteA nice gesture that someone made a sketch for you, I wanted to see it... I hope more local Cebuanos will be known, great rap! Keep safe everyone!
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