OWNING HER THRONE

Born Deko Barbara-Jessica Wedi, award-winning South African rapper, author and TV personality Rouge is claiming her spot as the best female in the game

- THOBEKA PHANYEKO

GQ: Describe your musical journey to date?

Rouge: It’s an evolution. I’m learning about myself and my sound every day. It’s a beautiful journey.

GQ: From your debut album The New Era Sessions to where you are today, would you say there’s been a shift in your music? If so, what would you attribute it to?

R: You’ll hear the maturity in my sound. The hunger’s still there but there’s a better sense of who I am in this music. I’m doing a lot of singing, too.

GQ: Where did the name Rouge come from?

R: I needed a name that represents me. The colour red symbolises love, passion and danger. It grabs your attention quickly. It’s everything I’m about.

GQ: How would you describe the female hip-hop scene in SA?

R: It’s booming at the moment. Everyone wants to be part of it.