Just as Kamaizemi Hoveka, better known as KP Illest, was ready to take a break from music, a surprise international opportunity pulled him back into the spotlight.

The upcoming performance in Ireland is more than just a global showcase; it’s a subtle rebellion against the pressure to reinvent himself and a way to use that stage to his advantage.

“I don’t know, this is tricky. This is coming kind of close to a time when I was ready to step back, step away from music for a little bit. So, future projects? It’s a bit tricky to try and figure out what that means, because in my head, there weren’t going to be any,” he admitted.

The award-winning rapper, praised and celebrated for his lyrical agility and cross-cultural sound, said he has been considering taking a break from the industry before receiving the invitation to perform at a major music festival in Ireland this August.

KP Illest will travel to Ireland for the Jameson Distilled Sounds Series on Monday and he leaves the country tomorrow.

He will also be collaborating with Indian artist Mary Ann Alexander, the Bling Bling hitmaker, with whom they were teamed up by the rganizer. They will work on a new ballad, curated by American artist Anderson .Paak, to debut at the event.

“Mary Ann and I seem to have similar energies, and I think that’s how we were teamed up. She will be bringing her flavour, I will be bringing mine, and we will put a couple of things together. It’s strictly collaborative tracks and none of my old stuff. This set is all new,” said the ‘Okay Okay’ hitmaker.

KP Illest aims to deliver a unique experience to the Irish audience and music lovers, offering a fresh perspective on African music that differs from their usual exposure.

“I am excited to be part of this and hope it excites the music enthusiasts out there. This is an opportunity I couldn’t miss. The thrill is amazing, and I can’t wait to be out there. I hope the people in Ireland get to feel that there’s some genuine music coming out of Africa and not just the noise,” shared the music engineer.

KP Illest and Alexander will be joining a star-studded global lineup that includes Skinner (Ireland), Monica Karina (Indonesia), EU.CLIDES (Portugal), Kethan & Xenia (Kenya), Saint Kylo (Malaysia), Moldanazar (Kazakhstan), Lloyiso (South Africa) and Mannywellz (Nigeria).

-psiririka@nepc.com.na