Tracks like "Revey twa", "Marizan", "Mo pa pou suiv", and "Zilwa lève les bras" have become anthems that transcend time. The group, originally known as the Street Brothers, was formed on August 26, 1992, by Master Kool B (Bruno Raya) and his brother. Initially, they began as dancers, accompanying a rapper named Bernard, before releasing their debut album, Ragga Kreol, in 1994.
In 1996, the group's lineup evolved with the addition of Blakkayo, a dynamic singer who injected new energy into the band. This transformation led to the birth of Otentikk Street Brothers (OSB). The following year, they released Expresyon libere, an album that included the track "Chamarel," featuring the group Natir. Known for their profound lyrics, OSB's music spans genres such as reggae, seggae, dancehall, and rap, striking a chord with a wide audience.
With a philosophy rooted in being "The voice of the people," OSB is more than a musical group; they are a socially and politically conscious force. Their music amplifies the voices of the youth, addressing societal issues and advocating for change.
OSB continued to build on their success with subsequent albums, Nou Ki La in 2000, featuring newcomers Tikkenzo and Dagger Kkila, and Revey Twa in 2004. Their influence extended beyond Mauritius as they performed at prestigious music festivals across Europe, including Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Austria, and the Netherlands—a testament to their relentless dedication and impact.
Over the years, OSB has transcended being just a musical group, becoming a platform for nurturing new talent. Their last collective performance was in 2019, commemorating their 27th anniversary.
This year, OSB will further solidify their legacy with the release of their biography, Panik dan baz. Authored by Stephan Rezannah, this book chronicles the band's journey, detailing their struggles and unwavering resilience. Spanning over 20 chapters, the biography, available in both French and Mauritian Creole, features the lyrics of their songs, never-before-seen photographs, and exclusive anecdotes. It is described as "A committed biography. A mythical movement. A rebel story." The book is set to release on Monday, August 26, and is available for pre-order at www.osbcrew.com.
In addition to their literary endeavor, Master Kool B, Blakkayo, and Tikkenzo have returned to the studio to record two new tracks, also slated for release on August 26.
The anniversary concert on Friday, August 31, will kick off at 6 PM. Tickets are currently on sale for Rs 600 at various outlets and online at www.noubiye.com. They will also be available at the door for Rs 800.
