Newcastle-based virtuoso Syanda Masuku, better known as Kratoz recently dropped a euphonious EP titled “SMONYO II.” The 8-track project features the likes of Ayeezy and Skyzurp among other talented artists. Comprising nuanced sonics, the masterpiece showcases Kratoz’s versatility and undisputed musicality.
808 PLUG caught up with Kratoz to talk all things “SMONYO II” and learn more about his artistry.
For our readers who are just getting to know you, who is Kratoz?
Firstly, thank you for having me. Kratoz is an aspiring creative Hip-Hop musician from Newcastle, KZN. He is also a qualified sound engineer. I’m a great team leader. I’m part of a (soon to be a record label) crew named “Kabatainment Music Group”.
How and when did your journey with music start?
My older cousin was playing a lot of rap songs. He used to play the music from artists such as Lil Wayne, Drake, Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross, etc… but Lil Wayne & Drake, who later became my IDOLS, were the artists who caught my ear. 2012 was the year I started rapping and it was the year 2013 when I released a song titled “We are KMG” under a music group named “KMG.”
You recently dropped an EP titled “Smonyo II.” What inspired the EP and its title?
Let me take you on a little journey. Smonyo is my younger cousin who passed away back in 2015 so last year I made a 3 song EP (Smonyo) in which I paid tribute to him to let him know wherever – he is not forgotten. So this year I decided to release the sequel which was also dedicated to him. Cherish your loved ones while they’re still alive.
“Smonyo II” showcases your versatility. What does your creative process look like?
Thank you so much. Whenever I write a song, I always start writing a chorus first before writing my verses. Most of my title songs comes from the messages of the choruses. Choosing nor making a beat that would accompany the mood you’re in that very moment is an impressive underrated skill. I’m always grateful to have this kind of skill in my possession.
The EP comprises different sonic elements. How would you describe your sound?
Honestly right now, I’m in a moment of making music where you cannot actually describe my sound. Today, I would be making a rap song, the next day it’s an R&B Trap Soul vibe. The other day I would be making that ATL TRAP music to get in the vibe, trying to chase those club bangers. I highly describe my sound, but I barely making other music either than the sub-genres of RAP MUSIC.
You featured quite a few talented artists on the EP – such as Skyzurp “Bad Neighbours.” How did you go about choosing artists to collaborate with for this project?
It wasn’t hard to get the talented artists that I featured on my EP because they’re my friends and we are part of one music group, KMG. We always make music together almost every day that’s why it always easy to get each other on each our projects.
The beats on “Smoyo II” are immaculate. How did you go about the beat selection process?
I’m highly grateful. It means a lot. Shout to my other music composers who made the instrumentals from my EP. Emvy, Shakes & Directa. There are beats I made and there beats that were made by these incredible composers I’ve mentioned. The beats were long-time selected, I just realized later that these beats I made and chose would fit perfectly well with this picture I’m trying to paint on “Smonyo II.”
“Smonyo II” consists of eight euphonious tracks. Any personal favourites?
It’s hard to choose but I’m currently enjoying “Time To Beam” & “Nightmares”.
What else can we expect from you in 2022?
Another solo project, this time with a few songs. More projects engineered by me coming your way. More growth from my previous music and more incredible features.
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