ChinamacChancer on Music, Fashion, Pantsula Aesthetics & Being Your Own Genre

In a landscape where artistry often gets boxed into singular definitions, Rorisang Magape, better known as ChinamacChancer refuses to be confined. Hailing from the vibrant township of Daveyton, East Johannesburg, this multi-hyphenate is as much a musician as he is a muse, a true creative force bridging music, fashion, and content in a uniquely way.

With music as his first love, ChinamacChancer’s journey began at just 12 years old, inside a neighbor’s humble home studio. What started as curiosity evolved into a calling. Today, his genre-blending sound—infused with R&B/Soul, Hip-Hop, and Trapsoul—is as healing as it is hypnotic. Each track is a heartfelt offering, an audio diary of a young artist who wears vulnerability like velvet.

But ChinamacChancer isn’t just about the music.

He’s also cementing himself as a bold fashion figure. From modeling for heavyweights like Studio 88, Skhandaworld by K.O, and the iconic Dakotas, he’s fast becoming one of the most versatile faces in contemporary streetwear culture. Still, it was the “Pantsula in Alex“ conceptual shoot that truly caught our attention, a visual love letter to township heritage, styled with an edge, captured by photographer Lefa Ditsego. The campaign didn’t just showcase clothing; it told a story, rooted in rhythm, resistance, and pride.

Whether he’s behind the mic or in front of the lens, ChinamacChancer carries an energy that’s raw, refined, and distinctly his own.

Q&A

We caught up with the rising star to unpack the many layers of his creativity:

Q: Your sound blends old and new and offers something very different from the mainstream. How do you find the balance between nostalgia and innovation?
ChinamacChancer: I find the balance by staying authentic and true to myself, and by not necessarily following every trend that comes out. I try to keep tunnel vision and block out the noise—it helps me stay grounded in my own rhythm.

Q: That Pantsula shoot in Alexandra had serious flavor. Knowing the culture’s deep roots, what was the inspiration behind it?
ChinamacChancer: I’m from the township myself, growing up there exposed me to a lot of characters and cultures—Pantsula was one of the most iconic. The fashion side always grabbed me, but what really inspired me was the storytelling through dance. Shooting in Alex gave it a different kind of rawness and texture. It just made sense.

Q: How do you approach fashion compared to music—do they come from the same place creatively?
ChinamacChancer: 100%. Music and fashion come from the same space for me. I’ve always looked up to people like Bow Wow, Da L.E.S., Outkast and the late Riky Rick… They’ve all inspired my style and sound in some way, depending on the era.

Q: What’s one surprising item in your closet right now?
ChinamacChancer: Half of my Sepedi attire. You’ll find a white shirt and cross beads for sure.

Q: Many artists today are multi-hyphenates—do you think it’s important for the next gen to embrace being multidimensional?
ChinamacChancer: Absolutely. It’s key to maintain your brand and stay consistent. These days, anything goes—you just have to own it.

Q: If you had to assemble a Street Cypher dream team, who’s making the cut?
ChinamacChancer: First, the late great Riky Rick, then Andre 3000, Tyler, the Creator, Anatii, and Pharrell Williams. That’s a cypher I’d actually cry for.

Q: If your life had a walk-out anthem, what song are you picking and which genre boxes you in (if any)?
ChinamacChancer: I’d say my music style belongs in the same box as Andre 3000—versatile and uncategorisable. My walk-out song? Vibin (Remix) by Boyz II Men ft. Treach, Busta Rhymes, Craig Mack, and Method Man. That joint slaps.

Q: What’s next for ChinamacChancer? Any drops, campaigns, or moments we should be watching out for?
ChinamacChancer: All of the above! I’m dropping a new song soon with dope visuals and a campaign with a major brand that’s going to create an infinite buzz. Stay tuned—I’m just getting started.I

Bonus Q: If you were president for a day, what’s the first law you’d pass?
ChinamacChancer: [Laughs] “No boring outfits allowed in public.” That’s the manifesto. If you’re wearing Crocs and socks, you’re getting fined.

Stream For Vibes or Feelings? And follow ChinamacChancer on his journey as he continues to merge culture, craft, and creativity—and redefines what it means to be a modern-day storyteller in South Africa.