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The Evolution of Rowlene: From "Imposter" to Industry Icon

  • Writer: ALT. RECESS
    ALT. RECESS
  • Nov 15, 2024
  • 3 min read

Updated: Feb 15



Rowlene Bosman, born in 1997 in Elsies River, Cape Town, is a name that has risen from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent figure in South African music. As the middle child and only girl in her family, Rowlene’s path to musical success began in the heart of her home. Surrounded by a rich collection of vinyls and CDs, she was immersed in the soulful sounds of gospel, R&B, and pop music, which filled every room, corner, and passage of her childhood home.


Early Beginnings and Musical Roots


Rowlene’s love for music started at a young age, with her early exposure to singing in school choirs. These formative experiences laid the foundation for her future as an artist. Growing up in a community where opportunities were scarce, Rowlene’s determination and passion for music kept her focused on her dreams. Her story of perseverance is not just one of talent, but of a deep connection to her roots and the desire to make an impact with her music.


Breaking Through with “Imposter”


In 2015, Rowlene made her debut in the music industry with the release of her first single, "Imposter." The track garnered attention and opened doors for her to connect with some of the biggest names in South African music, including Nasty C, A-Reece, Riky Rick, Gemini Major, and Tellaman. This single marked the beginning of her musical journey, and she soon became a rising star in the South African music scene.


Her feature on Nasty C's hit song "Phases" in late 2016 brought her widespread recognition. The collaboration cemented her place in the industry and set the stage for the release of her debut Extended Play (EP), The Evolution of a Robot, in September 2015.


The Evolution of a Robot


Rowlene’s debut EP, The Evolution of a Robot, released in March 2017, showcased her unique sound and artistic depth. The project, which included the breakout single "Imposter," demonstrated her ability to blend various genres while staying true to her roots. Following the EP’s release, Rowlene continued to expand her reach, collaborating with notable artists like A-Reece on the track “Pride” from his second album, From Me To You and Only You.


Her feature on the single "Between Me & You" from Flames' debut EP Clouds further solidified her reputation as a versatile and in-demand collaborator. Rowlene's music began to reflect her evolving artistry, with each new release pushing the boundaries of her sound.


Evolution of A Robot 2nd Generation


In September 2019, Rowlene released Evolution of A Robot 2nd Generation, a 20-track project that featured prominent names such as Kid X, Nasty C, Gemini Major, Lastee, Crowned Yung, and Tellaman. The project displayed her growth as an artist and her ability to craft songs that resonated with fans. With this release, Rowlene took another significant step in her career, proving that she was more than just a featured artist – she was a force to be reckoned with in her own right.


The Album "11:11" and Continued Growth


2020 saw the release of Rowlene’s highly anticipated album, 11:11, an introspective and personal collection of songs that showcased her growth both musically and emotionally. Looking back on her journey, Rowlene reflects on her humble beginnings with gratitude and a sense of awe.


She encourages her listeners to stay humble and true to themselves, and to believe that success will come with hard work and perseverance.


A Rising Star in the South African Music Scene


Rowlene's journey has not been without its challenges, but through it all, she has remained grounded and focused on her craft. Her collaborations with South African heavyweights such as Riky Rick, Bigstar Johnson, Tellaman, and Gemini Major have helped her carve out a place for herself in the competitive music industry.


From being signed to Nasty C's record label, Tall Racks Records, to becoming independent, Rowlene continues to build on her already impressive career, poised to reach even greater heights. Her unique blend of R&B, hip-hop, and pop influences has set her apart from the crowd, making her a standout figure in the South African music scene.


Looking Ahead


As Rowlene continues to evolve as an artist, there is no doubt that her journey is just beginning. With each new project, she refines her sound and demonstrates her versatility as a musician. Her story is a powerful reminder that with passion, perseverance, and authenticity, dreams can be realized, no matter where you come from.






Her latest release, "PLAYING GAMES - Demo," effortlessly channels the essence of 2000s R&B, with Rowlene's angelic vocals and impeccable attention to detail creating a nostalgic yet fresh sound.






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