Saudi Gazette Bboy Poe1 said it best: “That's the beauty of combining all these different cultures and countries. Because it shows the world what real hip-hop is. You know, because a lot of people think real hip-hop is gangster music or black or white or Arabic. Nah, real hip-hop doesn't discriminate. Real hip-hop is all cultures put together in one. It's peace, unity, love and having fun.” Shefan Lantra does just that: mixing cultures and having fun while at it. He believes that there is a greater power and strong subtext to life, and that music lets the mind break free from the shackles of routine. He believes one should not be confined to social norms but should make the best of their time and keep a dream alive. Planning to run the streets of fashion and music within his soul, Mr. Shef Codes (his alias) is UAE's boy wonder. He is not your flashy lifestyle star; he is more rigid in his underground technique and loves what he does best: sharing his inborn zeal for music. Young and full of zest for life, the Sri Lankan prodigy brings a spark of earthy diligence wherever he goes. His brimming hope is inspirational. “I was really young when I started. It was funny, I bought a cassette and started making my own mix tapes. I wanted to share music so I distributed it to my friends who later passed it on.” Shef studied graphic design at the American College in Dubai where he grew popular among students and played at events throughout the city. It was not a matter of conflict for him, admitting he studied for the love of his parents. “You know parents want something for you and unless I could prove myself, I had to make sure I did both.” While he studied on the side and tried to keep his grades up, he continued to chase after his dream, ensuring his priorities were in order. Playing at famous local clubs, Shef recalls starting early and spending hours religiously practicing at home every day. He also practiced with his mentor Mass Ramli, one of the most recognized DJs in the UAE. “I remember Ramli would let me practice and support me. He nurtured my skill by allowing me to play. He thought I had talent and that did a lot for me.” At the Middle East level, Shef was the youngest competitor and won third place in the annual PALME DJ in the Year 2007. Soon after, big names and people who recognized that Shef was made for better things picked him up. He remembers meeting DJ Bliss, a.k.a. Marwan, as a judge at a contest. He now plays side by side with Bliss regularly. “Bliss is a great guy, he's encouraging in every aspect.” Since his style was non-commercial, perhaps that was why they blend into each other's sphere? Shef admits, “Even though my style of music is different, Marwan appreciates that.” He has warmed up for T-Pain and Gorillaz in Dubai while sharing the stage with the likes of Kardinal Offishal, Cassidy, Shaggy, Karl Wolf, Robin S and Lloyd. A Kid Capri fan, Shef believes hip-hop is a route to achieving ideals stronger than just music but can produce a greater influence. “Kid Capri is a legend,” the star said as he talked about his love for art of composition. He admits to being shy and not just around women. When asked how he felt about the overwhelming response lavished upon him at musical events, he smiled and took a moment to admit: “They are all very nice but I am just that way. I don't drink or smoke; I do it for music not the women or the fame.” That makes Shef a breath of fresh air. He wants to involve himself in marketing, advertising and of course have his own line of Coded style. In the meantime, he will be issuing directives on the do's and don'ts of up-to-the-minute men's fashion in his fashion blog called Coded Chronicles (yes, the man has classic taste). It makes one wonder what a Shef Code mix tape is like and here's hoping he comes up with his own production soon. Kid Capri said it's do or die, and Shef must heed the advice. After all, music is the cure and he is the antidote. Mr. Shef Codes has been churning out his beats at Etoiles, Armani, Gold, Chi — The Lodge, Sanctuary, Crystal, Rooftop and Velvet Underground in Dubai. You can follow his tweets @MrShefCodes. To check out his upcoming events, visit http://www.facebook.com/mrshefcodes. __
