Enter Ninja, a South African MC who, along with Yo-landi Vi$$er and DJ Hi-Tek, comprise Die Antwoord.
Ninja is one of the more curious guys I’ve seen up-and-coming for a while. His work is obviously in the realm of what most of us would consider hipster, for its absurdity suggests that it should be taken ironically. To Ninja, however, it’s not. He’s serious that he has “you know, some serious gangster skill on the mark”, and these guys embrace what would immediately be looked upon as ridiculous and trumpet it as the best thing since sliced bread; that’s certainly something not to be overlooked.
I’ll admit, there’s nothing groundbreaking about “Enter the Ninja”, but there’s a ton that is just damn interesting. For one thing, the hook is addicting beyond belief (try and not get it stuck in your head - I dare you). Also, you cannot deny that Ninja is just awesome to listen to, and while his accent is sometimes incomprehensible (if he’s speaking English at all), his flow is undeniably unique and he spits with a fervor that echoes the intensity of Eminem and K’naan.
Summary: Die Antwoord is, if nothing else, at least worth a look and, depending on how you feel, maybe a laugh. The video I’ve posted above is the official music video for their track “Enter the Ninja”. Really cool visually and really addicting musically. Be sure to check out the impromptu interview and short-form-video for their track “Zef Side” as well - that thing’s ridiculous.


