From Lesotho to the World: SaveHXPE’s Journey of Hope, Hip-Hop, and Authenticity
From the heart of Lesotho to the global stage, SaveHXPE is making waves as one of South Africa’s most promising young talents. Rapper, producer, and storyteller, his journey is a testament to creativity, resilience, and the power of staying true to oneself.
SaveHXPE’s musical journey began at just nine years old, inspired by his older brother’s rap group and the sounds of hip-hop echoing through his home. By the age of seven, he was already rapping, and soon after, he started making his own beats determined to create the perfect backdrop for his lyrics. “I grew up around music. My uncles and my mom listened to hip-hop, so I gravitated towards artists like Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, and the rap of the ‘90s and early 2000s,” he recalls.
Breakthrough Projects and Global Recognition
His first serious project, Kings 2A (2021), marked a turning point, showing him that music was more than a hobby it was his path. The follow-up, Still Deciding, brought even greater success, with the lead single “Breathe” amassing 1.9 billion streams on Spotify. “It started around me first, and then it went globally,” SaveHXPE shares, reflecting on the overwhelming response from his hometown of Maseru to the world.
A major milestone came when Erykah Badu, a childhood idol and his mother’s favorite artist, publicly endorsed his work. “It was a full circle moment for me,” he says. This recognition opened new doors, connecting him with a team in Los Angeles and propelling his career to new heights.
Staying Authentic in a Changing Industry
Amidst the rise of “bubblegum music,” SaveHXPE’s gritty, original hip-hop stands out. His EP Still Deciding resonated with fans for its authenticity and relatable stories. “People tell me their girlfriends listen to my music, or their little brothers wake up to it every day. That’s the impact I’m proud of,” he explains.
For SaveHXPE, the creative process is everything. He stays inspired by making music daily, embracing the journey rather than focusing solely on the outcome. Social media has played a crucial role, with tracks like “Breathe” blowing up on TikTok and Instagram, reaching hundreds of thousands of new listeners.
His latest single, “80’s Baby” featuring Baby Days, is all about fun and artistic expression. The collaboration came about through mutual connections in Lesotho and Cape Town, leading to an instant creative spark. “It’s a playful record. I want listeners to have fun and enjoy it,” he says.
Looking ahead, SaveHXPE is excited to explore new genres, blending pop and R&B with his hip-hop roots. His upcoming single, “It Ain’t So,” drops July 11th, promising even more evolution in his sound.
Music as Storytelling and Activism
SaveHXPE’s lyrics often delve into identity, relationships, and social commentary. “I put all my emotions in the music so listeners can resonate with how I’m feeling,” he says. The song “Distance” from his EP stands out as a powerful example, helping fans navigate their own relationships and emotions.
Advice for Young Creatives
For aspiring artists, especially those from small towns like Lesotho, SaveHXPE’s advice is simple: “Use what you have and keep going. I started making music on an old Windows XP computer and recorded on my phone. The only fuel you need is creative fuel, and that will take you places you never imagined”.
Grateful for the support he’s received, SaveHXPE encourages fans to stay tuned for what’s next: “There’s so much to come this year, and I’m happy you’ve stuck with me on this journey”.
You can follow SaveHXPE on all social platforms @SaveHXPE (pronounced “Hope”) and stream his new single “80’s Baby” featuring Baby Days on all major platforms now.
Writing by Laure
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