In the heart of Johannesburg, South Africa, is talented artist Orapeleng Eugene Mokgosi, known to many as thebookofeugene. His name carries the essence of his craft. Moreover, he has the ability to intertwine the art of storytelling with the rhythm of hip hop.
“I go by the name thebookofeugene,” he tells Remixd Magazine. “The name came from my love for storytelling, which seeped its way into my songwriting outside of educational creative writing.”
With roots deeply embedded in hip hop’s core, thebookofeugene’s sound resonates with soulful beats and lyrics that paint vivid narratives of the human experience. “My sound is hip hop to its core. Sample based, dusty and funky drum breaks reminiscent of the golden era of the genre. Lyrically, the approach has always been to tell stories that are reflective of the human experience. Authenticity is the number one priority,” he affirms.
Thebookofeugene describes his journey through music as stemming from a profound desire to be heard. A sentiment shaped by his upbringing. “Growing up being taught that men aren’t allowed to be vulnerable. Music was the only medium I could use to express my repressed thoughts and emotions. Honesty to self is what fuels my creative endeavors,” he explains. Through his interview, he sheds light on the raw emotion infused into his artistry.
thebookofeugene and his inspirations
Furthermore, thebookofeugene pays homage to the influences that shape his musical landscape. Drawing inspiration from icons like Kendrick Lamar, Earl Sweatshirt, and King Krule, Eugene meticulously hones his craft. Furthermore, he dissects the intricacies of beat selection, word choice, and cadence. “From a very young age, I have studied Kendrick Lamar thoroughly throughout his own career. I studied everything from beat selection, word choice to his cadence, etc. Other artists I draw from are Earl Sweatshirt & King Krule,” he reveals.
Moreover, his latest project, NOTHING EVEN MATTERS, dives into the complexities of human perception and existential introspection. “The single was released Friday, the 29th of March 2024,” Eugene announces. He invites listeners to contemplate the weight of existence through his thought-provoking lyrics.
“The one message I hope fans take from my music is that vulnerability is power,” thebookofeugene says. “The most courageous thing one could ever do is to embrace vulnerability. I hope my self reflection will confront the audience, and encourage them to do the same. Without any judgment or shame.”
Follow him on IG here.
