Releasing a song was an important step for Vaal-based rapper and poet Solly Baloyi, but getting people to hear it has proved challenging.
Known by his stage name JAY VILLE, Baloyi released a track earlier this year. He said a lack of exposure had limited its reach, highlighting the difficulty of finding an audience as an emerging artist.
Originally from Naboomspruit, Baloyi developed a passion for expressing himself through music during childhood. His writing draws on his life and personal experiences, with rap and poetry providing an outlet for his thoughts.
“I was a child who always focused on putting my life and everything into music,” he said.
He names rapper A-Reece and motivational speaker Les Brown among his inspirations.
His creative journey has also taken him onto the stage. Baloyi has performed at the Maphungube Festival and held a poetry session in Polokwane at the beginning of 2023.
Now living in the Vaal, JAY VILLE hopes to bring greater attention to his work and connect with listeners through the experiences he puts into words.
