7Bantai’Z: ‘Where We Are Right Now, It Is Only Because of the Love That We Have Gotten from Our Fans’

Hailing from Dharavi in Mumbai, hip-hop crew 7Bantai’Z – comprising Mr Scam (David Klyton), Crackpot (Aditya Vhatkar), Beat Slayer (Abhishek Kurme), Yoku BIG (Yogesh Kurme), Lil Damn (Siddesh Jammi) and Bonz n Ribz (Nishant Mohite) – formed in 2014 and haven’t looked back since.  

Over the years, the group has gained a lot of popularity but admits that when they started out it was difficult. “In India people didn’t know much about this style [hip-hop],” says Klyton. The crew also recalls that when they were still fresh, there weren’t many opportunities, except for a few gigs and open-mics once in a while. “There was a motive to socialize, network and work together to take the hip-hop culture to a bigger level,” Klyton says.  

However, 7Bantai’Z pinpoint the fact that the film Gully Boy opened new doors not only for them but the hip-hop community in India in general. Klyton feels, “People started accepting this style, supported this genre, which helped us get to where we are at right now. As soon as we figured it out, it has been the most wonderful journey since.” He adds, “From meeting great people to travelling to beautiful cities, all we received was sheer love and support from everyone. Where we are right now, it is only because of the love that we have gotten from our fans and audiences.”  

Last month, 7Bantai’Z performed at the Rolling Stone India presents Hennessy Freestyle Concert, a showcase of India’s incredible hip-hop movement. “It was no doubt one of the best hip-hop shows that we have been a part of, not only as a performer but as an audience member too,” says Klyton. The crew admit to being “blown away” by the set-up at the venue, while also being able to socialize with fellow rappers as well as their listeners. Klyton says, “So, to sum up, the audience’s energy made the event a super success.”