i-Files: Dope Saint Jude
"This too shall pass."
In the days since COVID-19 has dominated our screens, and mandatory self-isolation is being enforced globally, things can seem pretty bleak. With the recent announcement from Prime Minister, Boris Johnson effectively placing the UK into a lockdown, all non-essential travel has been restricted, and only urgent outings (including to buy food, medicine and exercise once a day) are permitted. This change – which is set to last for 3 weeks, and then will be reviewed – has been imposed as a way of ensuring social distancing measures used to quell the spread of the outbreak. EQUATE took this time to catch up with our favourite artists and creatives for our ‘Isolation Files’ to see what they are doing to keep their spirits up in this time, and bring some positivity to our readers.
South African rapper and all-round creative powerhouse Dope Saint Jude took some time out to chat with us quickly on what she’s getting up to admits this trying time. Identifying herself as “a queer, black woman from the flats”, and having already been credited with transforming South African Hip-Hop by ‘queering a genre that has predominantly been male and heteronormative’. Dope Saint Jude continues to make waves in the industry and shows no signs of slowing down.
EQ: What are the top three tracks on your playlist at the moment? Anything in particular you can’t take off repeat?
DSJ: Earthgang - Proud of U (ON REPEAT); Kota the Friend - Church & Koffee - Toast
YouTube/EarthGang
EQ: What would you recommend we all tune into on Netflix/Amazon Prime?
DSJ: I’d highly recommend: One Mississippi; Bobs Burgers & Rupaul’s Drag Race - you’re welcome!
EQ: What’s a positive mantra that’s getting you through this time?
DSJ: “This too shall pass.”
EQ: With so much content out there right now across socials, is there anything that has stood out to you that you can share?
DSJ: Yes - my new song “Go High Go Low” was just released last week - check it out:
YouTube/Dope Saint Jude
EQ: With all the spare time, how are you tapping into your creativity?
DSJ: I am writing songs about “nothing”, just enjoying the song writing process with no expectations of the end product.
EQ: First place you’ll head to when everyone comes out of isolation?
DSJ: I am going out to a party! I’m gonna link up with my homies and dance.
(same here girl, same)
EQ: What can we look forward to hearing from you later in the year? Any exciting projects we should be looking out for?
DSJ: Look out for more singles, videos and tracks! I am here to serve my community!
Stream ‘Go High Go Low’ HERE
Keep up with Dope Saint Jude on socials:
Instagram: @dopesaintjude
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For advice or information on the Covid-19 Virus, we recommend that you thoroughly read the NHS’s Corona Virus Advice page.
If you or anyone you know are feeling unwell, and suspect you may have been in contact with an infected individual, then please (as instructed) self-isolate immediately, stay away from vulnerable persons, and call your local 111 service for further advice.
Please remember to wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, think about others, and stay safe in this period! ❤️
Love, Team EQUATE.