Cape Town’s crowned lyricist isn’t just spitting bars. She’s roaring her way to the top — unapologetically real and louder than ever.
It’s a sunny afternoon in Cape Town and Dee Koala pulls up to our shoot in full beast mode. Her energy is undeniable as she gets ready for hair and make-up —she’s come to slay! Dee’s the kind of artist who doesn’t need to show off to command attention; her presence speaks volumes. But make no mistake: when it’s time to unleash, this Koala bites.
View this post on Instagram
For someone who goes by the name of one of the cutest animals in the wild, Dee Koala is anything but tame. She’s wild, raw and real, and represents the kind of untamed feminine power Gen Z is hungry for.
From Khayelitsha to crowned queen
Born Odwa Stuma, and bred in the heart of Khayelitsha, the muso’s rise to stardom is the definition of homegrown hustle. With lots of tough love and support from her family and her ‘hood, she was equipped with the drive and gumption to reach for her dreams.
View this post on Instagram
Dee’s down-to-earth demeanour and authenticity became her superpower. When she first hit the music scene, she wasn’t backed by a huge PR machine. Just bars, vibes and raw charisma. Fast-forward a few years, and she’s got multiple awards under her belt (including SA Hip Hop Awards Best Female Artist in 2020), co-signs from the likes of Riky Rick (RIP), and brand deals with international labels.
“My music career took off around 2016/2017… 1 was already known a little bit on social media as a personality at the time. Then I dropped my first music video for the song Whuzet and it kind of blew up!” she exclaims…
By: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photography by: Donna Lewis
Styled by: Gasant Kellerman
Text courtesy of Club X magazine
Also read: Simphiwe Mbatha: Living in full colour
