Congo Natty Interview

24 Sep 2012

The legendary Congo Natty a.k.a Rebel MC takes the time to share some wisdom and love, as well as giving us info on forthcoming releases, collaborations and his new label, Congo Natty Bass.

It’s a privilege to introduce one of the true pioneers of jungle music. 20 years on in the jungle scene and it continues to be a healthy movement, what do you think has kept it so alive?

What has kept jungle alive is love. It is created in love and spreads love... jungle love.

Over the past year, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing a few Congo Natty sets. Each one featuring Nanci & Phoebe has finished with an astounding live performance of Notorious, why did it take so long to see a release?

When you plant a seed it takes time to grow. Nanci and Phoebe are two beautiful flowers in the musical garden of life, so Notorious is growing.

We are also talking to Turbulence about a remix feat all da massive. Yes we building.

It was also the debut release on your new label, Congo Natty Bass. Can you tell us a bit about the ethos behind the label?

Yeh, Congo Natty Bass is a new platform for both brand new and established artists moving into the next level of the jungle revolution. Congo Natty Bass will be promoting young, upcoming souljahs with videos, tours and press… watch this bass.

You relaunched your musical journey at the beginning of this year with Get Ready, which saw you get back on the mic after some time, did it feel good to be back?

Yes I. On the mic, the samurai sword. Yes, time for a message, get ready. Rasta pon the move and you know seh man steady, movin’ to the mountain cah Jah ah mek it ready....

Each Congo Natty performance carries a unique community vibe, what do you think are the elements to a perfect rave?
Elements are.... bass, ganja and love.

Music has obviously had a huge impact on your life, which instruments can you play?

Firstly I play I first instrument, turntables and mixer. Now learning guitar and playing bingy drum.

What has been your highlight of this year’s festival season so far?

The highlights this year have been Siren festival, Turkey, Strummer of Love, Croatia’s Outlook, Bestival and Organic sounds festival.

Anything planned for the future?

No plans for the future... Just trying to live for today.

Any shout outs?

One love to all junglist worldwide.

Jah Rastafari.

Bless.

Nanci & Pheobe Ft. Congo Natty - Notorious is out now and is available to purchase from Surus, iTunes, Beatport and Juno.

Also, check out the Rebel MC - Marcus Garvey (Serial Killaz Mix) free to download via the Congo Natty Bass SoundCloud page.

Words: Laura Charalambous

Like it? Share it!
Sign up for more with the Kmag weekly newsletter.

Latest

Teddy Killerz And Jade Talk Violence
The next huge release from Eatbrain features Teddy Killerz. Here, alongside label boss Jade, they break down the Violence EP.
DJ Vapour Guest Mix
More amazing new music for your ears. We chat to DJ Vapour about new music on 36 Hertz and much more. He treats you to a booming guest mix into the bargain.
Symptom Guest Mix
One half of soundsystem killers Savage Rehab, Symptom is a respected producer in his own right. We catch up on all the news from him, including an exclusive mix.
Eveson Interview
Artist. Musician. Snowboarder. Eveson is all over at the moment, with his unique blend of skills and passion. We speak to him about upcoming live dates, upcoming releases and more.
Antics Records Unveil Collateral Damage
The Antics Records crew are behind a new LP, which has been getting some major support from the big players. We discuss the project with the label right here.
Congo Natty on Outlook and New Album
We caught up with Congo Natty in Spain to discuss this year's Outlook festival and his forthcoming release on Big Dada...
DJ Upzet Guest Mix
Coming at you live and direct from Germany, DJ Upzet talks about his contribution to the scene, and delivers a firing guest mix.
Soulculture Continue To Spread Their Wings
Soulculture seem to be everywhere at the moment. The duo have a load of exciting plans right now, which they explain to Kmag.
Numark iDJ Pro Review
Numark's sleek new controller the iDJ Pro certainly looks the business but how does it perform? We take a closer look...
Youthman Drops Some Bangin Music
No doubt one of the best French producers in the game, Youthman delivers the scorching Bangin Music EP for Under Pressure.
Scientia Continues With The Carbon Remix EP
J-Science's Scientia imprint is embarking on yet another journey with the Carbon Remix EP. We talk to the Science man all about it.
Detail Guest Mix
Ukraine's Detail is part of the new Utopia release. We talk to him about his track right here, and he drops a guest mix on us.
Action Bronson releases Saab Stories EP
Queens rapper Action Bronson releases his new collaboration EP with Harry Fraud, Saab Stories.
Dawn Raid Interview
Manchester crew Dawn Raid are covering all bases of late, with artist releases, their own label and live appearances coming across the board. We caught up with them to find out more.
Top 10 Videos May 2013
Another month has flown by and, as ever, there are a huge variety of themes explored in our favourite videos from May.