Ras Ritchie

Ras Ritchie (real name Bongani Richard Hlophe) is one of the best reggae artists in Manzini, Swaziland. He attended Salesian High School and thereafter, the Swaziland College of Technology (SCOT). He grew up listening to reggae and Old Skool hip-hop and always had a vision that one day he would become one of the recognised dancehall artists in the country. It all started in 1996 when he dabbled with the artistry of being a rapper. His stage name Ras Ritchie was coined by a fellow artist Reggie Maphanga from Black Roses.

He singles out his performance with Admiral & Jah Seed, the reggae nights at Marios Pub with Thami, playing alongside Madd Coolia at the Redbull Edition and House on Fire as the highlights of his career.

He draws inspiration from Capleton, Shabba Ranks, Yellow Man, BuJu Banton, Sizzler, LKJ , Mutabaruka and all the dancehall veterans.