From the energy of theatre stages to the rhythm of hip-hop, Lusaso ‘Saso’ Ngcobo has always been drawn to creativity.
Based in Umhlanga, Saso is best known as one-third of the award-winning group DreamTeam – but he’s so much more than just a rapper. He’s a storyteller, shaped by heritage, family and a strong sense of identity. Raised in a family immersed in the arts, Saso was exposed to entertainment from a young age. His uncle, a writer and theatre director, ignited the family’s passion for storytelling, while his mother, equally drawn to history and culture, passed that love on to him.
“I grew up watching a lot of theatre, mostly Mbongeni Ngema shows,” he explains. “Then my brother introduced me to hip-hop and the culture behind it. That mix is what shaped who I am.”
THE RHYTHM OF A DREAM
Saso’s connection to music began before he could fully understand it. “I fell in love with music around the age of three,” he says. “I was always dancing, always wanting to take part whenever there was music playing.” While he didn’t initially see it as a career, the pull of rhythm and expression was undeniable.
Fast forward to the DreamTeam years, and Saso is now part of one of South Africa’s most recognisable hip-hop groups.
“There are so many defining moments with DreamTeam, it’s hard to pick just one,” he says. “But the success of our mixtape The Blow Up stands out. We made it independently, pushed it ourselves, and it ended up winning Mixtape of the Year at the SA Hip Hop Awards. That was a big moment.”
LOOKING AHEAD
There’s more to come. “I’m definitely planning on releasing new music – both with DreamTeam and solo,” he says. But beyond music, Saso’s brand has grown organically, extending into fashion and cultural collaborations.
“It wasn’t planned, to be honest. Things have just happened naturally,” he admits. “But I’ve always stayed true to who I am and where I come from. I think that’s what’s kept me grounded.”
A QUIETER RHYTHM
Today, Saso is embracing a slower pace.
“A perfect weekend for me now would be spending time with my daughter, my family and close friends,” he says. “I’ve taken a liking to calmer, more peaceful things. That doesn’t mean we don’t do exciting stuff – it’s just not always in the public space.”
INSPIRED AND INSPIRING
His influences span legendary and emerging voices.
“Musically, Mbongeni Ngema, Jay-Z, Chris Brown and Meek Mill have all inspired me. But I’m also moved by up-and-coming creatives in music, fashion or art. There’s so much raw talent out there.”
AND WHAT DOES BLACK EXCELLENCE MEAN TO HIM?
“It’s about owning your narrative, collaborating with like-minded people and opening doors for others who are just as passionate,” he says. “We need to learn from each other and build each other up.”
LEGACY IN THE MAKING
At the heart of it all, Saso is driven by a desire to leave a meaningful legacy.
“I want to impact the next generation in a positive way. Spread love, peace, happiness – but also promote education and knowledge in ways that help us build generational wealth.”
Details: IG: @sasodt
Saso’s Brunch Marquee is Back!
The most talked-about marquee at last year’s Durban July is making its glamorous return. On Saturday, 5 July, Saso’s Brunch Marquee returns – and this time, it’s even more opulent. Curated by Saso himself, the exclusive experience will unfold in a prime new location near the Winning Post, welcoming 800 VIP guests to a day of Afro-futuristic fashion, gourmet brunches, designer cocktails, and world-class music.
With this year’s theme, “Cradle of Humankind,” expect interiors that honour African heritage with a sleek, modern twist – and an entertainment line-up that promises to top last year’s star-studded stage. Tickets are limited and available exclusively via Ticketpro.
