The problem with growing up poor is, it creates an imaginary world of opulence that you would like to have. You chase imaginations of things you lacked as a child.The lack of basic things growing up often makes you want to avenge poverty in very diabolical ways. Khaligraph Jones is a prime example, and it is okay for him to get the things he wants.
Original Post by Khaligraph
Do I hate his new house? Not at all, does is matter? Not at all. Kenyans will joke about anything, but as part of the jokes, some people are actually serious and they hate his house, very hilarious.
Khaligraph Jones has been flaunting his new 100 million mansion for months, a sure show of success for the years and years of hardwork he has been putting in.Is he the best rapper from Kenya? Not really, Is he the most hardworking? Yes. Khaligraph Jones, real names Brian Omollo from Bondo, represents Kayole, a slummish ghettoish settlement at the heart of Nairobi Kenya. With the knowledge of his background it would be very unfair to castigate a man for fulfilling his dream. He is the representation of what a working man can achieve.
In a photo shared by Khaligraph himself, his mother was seen in all smiles seemingly enjoying the fruits of his son’s labour. I can assure you that the smile on his mother’s face is the only thing that matters to Khaligraph and not whatever Kenyans think. Who gives a heck if Kenyans On Twitter think his house looks like a mall? In very extreme photoshops, KoT have done stupendous edits in a bid to mock his new living quarters, with reasons best known to them. But let people have fun right?
In a story shared by Aress 66, one of the best producers and rappers to stem out of the 254, Khaligraph jones used to clean his studio in Umoja circa 2013 to get studio sessions. That is the man Kenyans want to regret building himself the exact kind of house he wished for because “Kenyans online don’t like it”. I don’t worship Khaligraph but I respect his hustle, he is one of the artists that have shown that there is money in art. The journey from being housed in Dandora by someone that let him sleep on their couch, to owning a big mansion, it shows progress, shows that your dreams can be achieved.
Expressway Photoshop
There exists a grandiose kind of feeling amongst Kenyans that is very baffling, as a critic of art, I understand it because I harbour the same syndrome too. Sometimes, I overestimate my opinion on something, it’s not normal but I will still do it. However we can appreciate the humor in Kenyans because we are a hilarious people, the problem is, we are too much in other people’s business.
Something about artists and athletes, we love the good life, the high and might. It is my opinion that Khaligraph is doing everything he wants because he can and there is absolutely nothing we can do about it.
In an industry where talent often goes unrecognized, Nigerian Hip-Hop artist Obuduboi, born Athanasius Unimke Ugbe, is setting the stage for a seismic release with his debut album, UNDERDOG. This project, dropping November 7, 2024, under OnlyTheGrindKartel (OTGK) and RADARCharts, is more than just music—it’s a bold narrative of resilience, ambition, and raw, unfiltered hustle.
Album Overview: A Voice for the Voiceless
UNDERDOG is Obuduboi’s defiant answer to the world. This eight-track masterpiece is a deeply personal and authentic exploration of his struggles as an emerging artist fighting for his place in the spotlight. From battling self-doubt to challenging industry gatekeepers, Obuduboi opens his heart to listeners, offering them a first-hand look into his journey. Set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s Hip-Hop and Trap scenes, the album captures the tenacity and hunger of an artist overlooked yet never defeated.
A Glimpse at the Tracklist
Each track on UNDERDOG has its own narrative, drawing from Obuduboi’s life experiences and collaborations with talented voices in the Nigerian music scene. Here’s a snapshot of the tracks that promise to resonate with fans and newcomers alike:
Wanna Listen – Setting the tone for the album, this Hip-Hop/Trap opener is a gritty invitation for fans to hear Obuduboi’s story, produced by JP Beatz and Xnoteorious.
123 – A unique Afro/Dancehall/Trap fusion that shifts the vibe while keeping the focus on his journey. With Xnoteorious at the production helm, “123” adds a dynamic flair to the project.
Pay The Fee – A high-energy anthem that speaks to the cost of success, “Pay The Fee” encapsulates the sacrifice and grind needed to make it in the industry, with production by Grandmix.
Wahala – Featuring Dhat Chumzy, Rabbai, and Yp4L, this Afropop/Afrofusion track dives into the highs and lows of navigating fame. Produced by Xnoteorious, “Wahala” underscores Obuduboi’s message that there’s strength in community.
Keeping Hope Alive – Another powerful track with Yp4L, this Hip-Hop/Trap entry balances lyrical vulnerability and optimism, representing Obuduboi’s resolve.
Comfortable – A lighter Afropop/Afrofusion tune featuring Jaga, Godor, and Xnoteorious that showcases a more relaxed, confident side of Obuduboi.
365 – Teaming up with Valviper, this Hip-Hop/Trap collaboration produced by Xnoteorious speaks to the year-round hustle and determination that fuel Obuduboi’s ambitions.
Halle – Closing the album on a high note, “Halle” features Dhat Chumzy, Lhiney2bad, and Yp4L. This Afropop track is an ode to the celebratory moments of success after hardship, crafted with Xnoteorious’s signature production.
UNDERDOG: A Project Rooted in Resilience
The beauty of UNDERDOG lies in its relatability. Obuduboi’s journey from Obudu, Cross River State, to carving his niche in the music industry is a story for anyone who has ever felt underestimated. The album’s fusion of English and Pidgin gives it a gritty realism that mirrors the artist’s Nigerian roots and urban edge. With influences from Afrobeat, Rap, and Trap, Obuduboi has crafted a sound that is distinctly his own, setting him apart in a crowded field.
About Obuduboi
Obuduboi’s impact extends beyond his music. As the founder of the luxury fashion brand Husslecraft, he has established himself as a multifaceted creative force, driven by the same grit that fuels his music. Managed by Cza of REM, Obuduboi’s journey is backed by a team that shares his vision for authentic, genre-defining artistry.
As he prepares to release UNDERDOG, Obuduboi invites listeners to join him on his path to success. His story is one of grit, heart, and unapologetic ambition—an inspiration for every artist fighting for a place in the spotlight.
Stream UNDERDOG Don’t miss the release of UNDERDOG on November 7, 2024
South African hip-hop is entering a new era as Cape Flats’ own Ziggy4x, one of the country’s most thrilling new artists, releases his debut EP, Gangsta Baby. Available now on all digital platforms, the project follows the game-changing single “Gunshots” featuring Blxckie, which has already ignited playlists and clubs across Africa with its gritty beat and fearless swagger.
Gangsta Baby is a seven-track tour de force executive-produced by BakerGotTheKeys, whose influence shapes much of project’s distinct, high energy sound. The EP also features production contributions from Herc Cut The Lights, Jaydon Lewis and Lotus Jojo adding layers of song depth that amplify Ziggy4x’s unique style. The EP is an unapologetic tribute to Ziggy4x’s roots, blending fierce storytelling with streetwise confidence and anthemic beats. Every track is infused with the essence of Cape Flats, capturing the unfiltered power, pride, and grit that define Ziggy4x’s journey. His distinctive style—grounded yet groundbreaking—signals the rise of a fearless artist ready to redefine African hip-hop.
Reflecting on Gangsta Baby, Ziggy4x says, “This EP is my love letter to the Cape Flats and to everyone who’s had to fight to be heard. Gangsta Baby is about stepping up, speaking out, and making an impact—on your own terms.”
Leading the charge is “Gunshots,” the EP’s wildly popular single featuring Durban’s powerhouse, Blxckie. Together, Ziggy4x and Blxckie have crafted an anthem that echoes across the continent, embodying a confident, unstoppable energy that has fans hitting repeat. Blxckie’s verse complements Ziggy4x’s raw delivery, bringing a melodic yet hard-hitting edge to a track that’s as bold as it is unforgettable.
Listen to Gangster baby on Spotify
Gangsta Baby is more than an EP—it’s a defining statement from one of the most promising talents South Africa has seen in years. Ziggy4x is setting a new standard, merging authenticity and ambition in a way that resonates deeply with fans across Africa and beyond.
Forever marks Kitticai’s first-ever collaboration and studio recording! (Shocker?) But first, who is Kitticai? Kitticai, a versatile creative known for UX design and graphic art (pssst… he designed the artwork)), is now stepping boldly into music—a passion he’s held onto for years. While Forever Together is his first collab, it’s actually his second release; his debut single, Magyal dem, cleverly riffs on Nairobi’s Sheng culture and the challenge of keeping up with various pet names for women
Kitticai
Teaming up with the talented Maggie Kay, a vocalist with a sweet, angelic voice, the two crafted Forever. Maggie, known for her work on projects like Let It Flow with Kayrop Music, brings warmth and soulful energy to the track.
The inspiration for Forever sparked from a “random” exchange of WhatsApp voice notes while jamming to a YouTube beat—which, funny enough, became the official beat for the song. Together, Maggie Kay and Kitticai tell a story about the cautious thrill of falling for someone special after a journey from friendship to romance.
Maggie Kay
The tone is a mix of bittersweet vulnerability and hope; Maggie Kay’s verse reflects a hesitant heart scarred by past “premium tears”—a phrase alluding to the emotional drama of Nairobi’s dating scene. Yet, the chorus, Forever, Whenever, Together, resonates with a sense of lasting commitment, echoing the universal hope of a love that stays strong against all odds.
Kitticai’s verse brings a lively, flirtatious mood, mixed with vulnerability as he and Maggie navigate their budding romance. His playful lines highlight the push-pull dynamic of their connection, especially with “Unanitext nakughost nani block.” The phrase “Story mingi achana nazo” reflects a desire to move past the drama of former relationships and focus on their current bond. Meanwhile, “Wakosanao ndo wapendanao” (Those who fight are those who love) captures the notion that conflicts can strengthen their relationship, making it both thrilling and authentic.
Overall, this song captures the excitement, hesitation, and complexity of young love, blending vulnerability with a hopeful, fun vibe. The urban sound, driven by Afrobeat rhythms from producer Till We Get There, features sweet chords and head-nodding drums. Combined with relatable lyrics, it resonates with anyone familiar with the Nairobi dating experience.
Credits
Michael Kitticai (@Kitticai ) – Singer, Songwriter & Performer
Maggie Kay (@MaggieKayy ) – Singer, Songwriter & Performer
Written by Margaret Kagundu, Michael Kitikai, & Sammy Njau Njoroge (Arrangement)
One of the best prospect in the Kenyan HipHop Industry, 4Mr Frank White released his much anticipated video “Commercial”. The song which features the half of popular BuruBuru duo Buruklyn Boyz, Ajay, is off his debut album “Definition:Real One”
A testament of his lyrical prowess and undeniable artistry, 4Mr Frank White has all the qualities to become a star. Ajay compliments his style with his unique flow and ability to smoothen a beat effortlessly. The result is as Kenyan pastors like to say “Self Explanatory”.
A sidenote would be how the project being a year old did not hinder Frank White from releasing the official music video, something that has proven to be a point of concern for Kenyan artists in Kenya.
The video is set in old plane yard, presumably befitting the “commercial” theme of the song. The dream of every artist is to what in layman language is called going commercial, where your music and brand have preceded yourself and you are listened to, streamed and booked for shows overwhelmingly. Commercial means you are most likely no longer chasing the money, but the vice versa. Brands and corporations approach you with intent of using your influence as a selling point for their product. Case in point, Khaligraph jones with Monster, Nyashinski with Tecno or King Kaka with Remy Martin just to name a few.
Ajay and 4Mr Frank White
A feature with Ajay Buruklyn Boyz is obviously a statement from Mr White of the intended direction of his career. Ajay has arguably had the best verse in 2024 in the hit song “Set It” featured by Dyana Cods. Despite all the circus surrounding the song since it was pulled down from Youtube, it is arguably the biggest song of the year and Ajay was at the center of it’s excellence. Mr Frank White releasing the video at the apex of his influence is a genius move.
The Westside rapper released his latest Album “Too Good To Be True:Pre Game” on October 2024, a 10 song project that is exceptional to say the least.
“Your favorite new-age rapper prolly follows to study my lingo,” 25K boasted on PheliMakaveli, his 2021 debut that introduced him as Pretoria’s raw and unfiltered narrator. On Pheli Makaveli, 25K declared himself Pretoria’s hometown griot, unflinchingly chronicling a life shaped by the streets of Atteridgeville. Curated by South African hip-hop sonic architect Zoocci Coke Dope, the album elevated 25K to a symbol of Pretoria’s hip-hop scene, sharpening his reputation as one of the key voices of Ispitori, the regional dialect he helped popularize. The debut came with its own lexicon: literally; a dictionary that translated his lyrics, drawing listeners into a world both foreign and familiar.
Listen to Pheli Makaveli here.
Three years later, 25K (aka Kilo or “Pheli’s own Makaveli”) returns with Loyal to the Plug: The Life and Times of Don Kilograms, an album that continues his journey without giving in to the dreaded sophomore slump. Staying true to his moniker, “The Plug,” a nod to his past life dealing drugs, Kilo reveals the scope of his evolution: luxury and designer grills may be his new reality, but his roots in Pretoria ground him still. Rather than crafting a slick, high-gloss production, Loyal to the Plug unfolds in gritty layers, guided again by ZoocciCoke Dope’s minimalist hand. This is hip-hop stripped down, where boom-bap’s rigid snare patterns meet trap’s sub-bass thump, resulting in a cohesive yet understated aesthetic.
Loyal To The Plug : The life of Don Kilograms cover art by Johnny Malepa
What sets Loyal to the Plug apart is the addition of actor Warren Masemola, whose narration weaves the project’s 15 tracks together. The Pretoria native’s rich baritone voice injects a sense of cinematic gravitas, creating the sensation of a guided tour through Kilo’s past and present. Masemola’s soliloquies evoke the hardship and pride of Pretoria, balancing political reflection with personal anecdotes that add documentary-like depth.
From left to right: 25K pictured with veteran actor WarrenMasemola.
Loyal to the Plug came after public skepticism over its singles. “2 Headed Goat” pairs Kilo with Maglera Doe Boy in a reflection on life’s turning points, while “Something Special” sidesteps the typical love ballad, its heartfelt tribute punctuated by Marcus Harvey’s earnest vocal textures.The song subverts the usual love ballad, becoming a heartfelt tribute to how love has kept Kilo grounded. As he says, “You the one who told me ‘Kilo, twela codeine’” .“Platinum” featuring Frank Casino, is characterized by an ominous tone with its sparse piano loop, but the track is held back by Kilo’s subdued delivery; it’s Frank Casino’s energy that brings the song to life.These singles, though polarizing, hint at the thematic duality of the project: gritty tales of street loyalty and occasional, surprisingly tender explorations of love and companionship.
Listen to Loyal To The Plug: The Life Of Don Kilograms here.
The intro begins with a monologue from Warren Masemola that paints a portrait of Pretoria from the inside out. As he recounts memories of apartheid and life after apartheid, he layers history with the socio-linguistic weight of identity, a reminder, as Trevor Noah wrote in Born a Crime, that “Language can define who you are to people even more than color.” Fittingly, Masemola, a Pretoria native himself, guides the listener through his own experience of South African history in Ispitori, grounding the story in a language that builds identity. This is met beautifully by 25K’s introspective stories, reflecting on how his life has changed, cleverly letting us into the life and times of Don Makaveli.
Loyal to the plug is a telescopic lens into 25K’s journey, reflecting his transformation from Pretoria’s streets to South Africa’s stages. In tracks like Phelibasas with Sjava and IWasBroke with rising talents Earle Fari and BerryJive, 25K honors his roots, reliving tales of survival and ambition. The song pulses with gratitude for Zoocci Coke Dope’s role in his journey, a brotherhood that goes beyond music, as the beats move listeners before they even notice. The theme continues with ProjectBaby II Interlude, where 25K revisits his rough upbringing in Atteridgeville, a crime-laden township in Pretoria, where he could’ve been in prison if not for music’s saving grace.
The recurring theme of loyalty versus betrayal surfaces repeatedly, notably in “Fake Love” with Focalistic. In Masemola’s monologue, we hear a candid disillusionment with South Africa’s unfulfilled promises post-apartheid: a stark reminder of the socio-political landscape that forms the album’s backdrop. The track “Real is Rare,” featuring Nasty C, reinforces the album’s ethos with its razor-sharp hook that cuts into the narrative of fractured friendships and lost loyalties.Nasty C’s masterful hook is the perfect assist, adding a bittersweet edge to Kilo’s journey through the chaos of loyalty and loss.
While 25K commands respect across the feature-heavy album, some tracks fall short. Deep Waters sees Marcus Harvey, A-Reece, and Maglera Doe Boy exploring layered emotions over a laid-back beat. A-Reece reflects on lost friendships, though his verse feels predictable; Maglera Doe Boy commands attention with a vivid portrayal of border life and ambition, dropping regional slang that reinforces his roots and gives the track an authentic edge. Similarly, TheUntouchables finds 25K outshone by Loatinover Pounds, who drops a football analogy referencing Ramos’s infamous tackle on Salah in the 2018 UEFA Final; a clever nod that grounds his verse in relatability.
In its finest moments, Loyal to the Plug reveals a surprising vulnerability. Tracks like “24 Bonnie & Clyde” with Mikhalè Jones offer a raw and unvarnished take on love as gritty and enduring as Kilo’s journey itself. Here, Kilo lets his guard down, crafting an ode as tough as it is tender: a streetwise love song shaped by survival, one where loyalty runs as deep as scars.In an album so rooted in survival, it’s refreshing to hear 25K let his guard down, even if only briefly, revealing a deeper layer of himself birthing a Bonnie and Clyde tale built for the streets.
One of the album’s standout moments comes from “The Resolve”, which features the late AKA in a posthumous appearance. Blending amapiano’s trademark log drum with an unmistakable energy, AKA’s verse brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia, giving the track a celebratory feel that feels worlds away from the album’s more somber tones. This is not the first time these stars meet, as AKA worked with 25K on his Culture Vulture remix in 2019.
The album’s closing is a fitting one: an extended version of “2 Headed Goat,” with Masemola’s narration serving as a final love letter to Pretoria. “South Africa is in Pretoria because Pretoria is its own country,” he asserts as he lists a number of talents that hail from Pretoria (Dj Maphorisa,Dj Bucks, Mordä, 25K and himself.). This solidifies the sense that “Loyal to the Plug” is a statement of pride and resilience. Alongside established artists like AKA, Sjava, A-Reece, and NastyC, as well as emerging voices like Berry Jive, Loatinover Pounds, and Flow Jones Jnr, 25K succeeds in creating an album that speaks to both past and present, a vivid portrait of Pretoria’s heartbeat.
Loyal to the Plug is a love letter to Pretoria’s distinct sound and soul. With each play , the album , grows rich and invites listeners into 25k”s world capturing the intensity of life on Pretoria’s streets and his unshakable loyalty to the city that made him. This makes Loyal To The Plug, a portrait of a rapper anchored in identity, pride, and survival.It’s a reminder of where Don Kilo has been, who he’s become, and the unbreakable loyalty that guides him through it all.
Publicists say there is nothing like bad PR, a very debatable point; however, they are the professionals, right?
Legendary Kenyan femcee Femi One released a new single, “Memories,” by Boutross Munene, and a funny thing happened on X (formerly Twitter) that made me think about the promotion discourse of music promotion in Kenya. Under her posting releasing the project, a Twitter user made a seemingly bizarre request and asked for the number of retweets he needed for the chance for just a touch of Femi One’s posterior.
Other social media users may be surprised by this, but on KOT{Kenyans On Twitter}, retweets are a form of currency that has gotten people jobs, cars, t-shirts, and shockingly today, a potential job. This would be a request that any artist would just ignore, but Femi One requested 5k retweets for the young fan to achieve his lifelong dream to touch the hem of her undergarments. KOT are keyboard warriors akin to our freedom fighters; hence, this was a very easy feat to achieve. Within a day, the young man was on a bus travelling to the capital city of sin, Nairobi, to achieve his fantasy.
As I watched all these unfold, it tinkered my memory of Kenyan artists using unorthodox means to pump up their traction before releasing new projects. People have faked marriage breakups and other diabolical things just to get traction on their new projects. As normal as this is globally, Kenyans, as usual, just do too much. Femi One, the Utawezana hitmaker, who was signed under Kaka Empire in 2013, has been what you would call a model artist since her debut on “Ligi Soo remix” by King Kaka. From onset, she has displayed discipline and dedication that can only be compared to Khaligraph Jones; you know what they say: success is 99% hardwork and 1%.
Femi One mastered the art of doing her job with minimal fuss, a factor that has earned her the trust of international brands like Monster. This was not her rollout plan at all; it was just a fan pulling a stunt that worked in his favour. Did the song get an audience on the first day? Yes, it did. Is it a sustainable business model? Not really.
However, this begs the question: why do some Kenyan artists feel the need to use diabolical means to promote their music? Our backsliding gospel artist, Bahati, has always been doing this; it works for him. He grew from a boy from Mathare to a global superstar, but not because of his music essentially, but gimmicks that I vehemently hate. From cheating scandals to cross dressing with his wife, that is just how he does it. The old Englishmen said, Don’t hate the game, hate the player.
There is a very wide line between content creation and making music; music is a religion, an art, a dedication to show respect to those that came before. Of course not all artists are good, but all musicians are artists. What our Kenyan artists have decided not to appreciate is the fact that music is not just recording and releasing; there is a team that you should engage behind the scenes to ensure your music achieves the intended purposes. Engaging public relations, publicists, artist managers, and legal consultants is the backbone of any successful artist. To avoid copyright tussles and protecting your intellectual property, our artists need education on the whatabouts of the corporate side of music. This gimmick of “Kiki” does work, but it is not a sustainable way to success. I know what you think. What knowledge do you have to lecture artists? Trust me, it’s a lot.
That said, the Kenyan industry is full of immesuarable talent; that is not in doubt, however, we need education deeply entrenched to help us join our East African counterparts on the global map. Tanzania and Uganda concentrate more on the music, or “Kiki” that pays.
Think of Diamond Platnumz vs. Harmonize, a manufactured beef that has generated income and fame for both parties without necessarily risking their reputation. Both of these artists have a team of professionals behiond them that are literally off the studio, proof that you can’t be a Jack Of All Trades.
I say all this to mean, let’s get more serious as an industry, and I hope the young man get’s to fulfil his dream of getting his hands on Femi One’s posterior.
Rising Kenyan Artist Kxffy Releases New Pop-R&B Single “What You Want” Featuring King Kerby: A Soulful Exploration of Unreciprocated Love.
Kxffy is a Kenyan artist, producer, and songwriter known for blending emotional lyricism with captivating melodies. With a strong foundation in R&B and trap, Kxffy crafts music that reflects personal experiences, love, and the complexitie s of human emotions. Having collaborated with some of Kenya’s most talented artists, including King Kerby, Vallerie Muthoni, NJERI, Sabi Wu & PRXNCE, Kxffy is poised to become a notable name in both the local and international music scenes.
Kerby, featured on “What You Want”, is a dynamic artist, vocalist and songwriter, known for his smooth delivery and introspective lyrics. His collaboration with Kxffy brings a unique flavor to the track, adding a sense of balance and reassurance to the song’s overall theme of unreciprocated love.
Kxffy is excited to announce the release of his latest single “What You Want,” featuring King Kerby. The deeply emotional and soul-stirring track reflects on the experience of giving your all in a relationship, only to realize that the love and effort aren’t being appreciated or reciprocated. With a blend of smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics, the song is set to resonate with anyone who has been caught between staying in an unbalanced relationship or letting go for their own well being.
In the words of Kxffy, “the song is about the feeling you experience when you realize you’ve done everything to show love to someone, but they just don’t seem to see it. It’s that point when you start realizing it’s time to move on, even though you do love the person.”
Kerby’s verse complements this emotional narrative perfectly, offering a voice of reassurance that love, while challenging, can be worked through if both parties are willing to put in the effort. His vocals add a deeper layer to the song, reminding listeners that even though love is complicated, it’s worth trying to make things work.
Speaking on the production process, Kxffy shared, “I made the beat at around 3 AM at night when I was reflecting on my own experiences with love. I wanted to make something that really captures that bittersweet feeling of loving someone deeply but also feeling tired of being the only one putting in the effort.”
Once the foundation of the track was set, Kxffy met up with King Kerby who added his vocals, bringing a new dimension to the song with his heartfelt verse. The two artists’ chemistry and connection are evident in the final product, blending seamlessly to tell a shared story of love’s highs and lows.
Beyond the single itself, “What You Want” serves as a prelude to Kxffy’s upcoming EP, which will dive deeper into themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth. It’s a new era for Kxffy’s music, as he steps into releasing songs performed and written by himself. It is also the closure of an era since this EP will bring his debut album ‘Tears & Purple Emotions’ full circle. The EP, set to be released next month, will include “What You Want” alongside other tracks that showcase his versatility as an artist and producer. The EP will mark a significant step forward in his career, as he looks to cement his place in both the local and international music scenes.
Be sure to follow Kxffy on social media for updates on the upcoming EP. For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information:
Emerging Sotho rapper Zepa release a trap inspired debut Album ESC TO NiRVANA. The young rapper is determined to to make his mark in the south African hiphop industry in general with a debut album that is a dynamic blend of raw talent, infectious beats, and lyrical depth, establishing Zepa Boy as a fresh voice in the rap scene.
The album’s lead single, ‘LiL DiD i KNO,’ has already created a buzz among fans and industry insiders alike, showcasing Zepa Boy’s signature style,sharp lyrics, powerful storytelling, and an energetic delivery. The full album takes listeners on a journey through his experiences, struggles, and aspirations, solidifying his reputation as an artist to watch.
Listen to Welcome to NiRVANA on Spotify
Ahead of the album launch, Zepa Boy released two tracks, ‘THE ESCAPE’ (feat. SRN & Nickson Thabane) and ‘WELCOME TO NiRVANA’ (produced by Draco) on October 25, 2024, both receiving enthusiastic feedback and building anticipation for the album’s full release.
“ESC TO NiRVANA is more than just an album,it’s a story of self-discovery, dreams, and the pursuit of a better life,” says Zepa Boy. “I can’t wait for everyone to experience it. This project reflects who I am and where I’m heading.”To celebrate the release, Zepa Boy has planned an exciting lineup of promotional events, including a high-energy live performance at the Lakers House Party on November 16, 2024. Fans can expect an unforgettable night as Zepa Boy brings his music to life on stage.
Grizzly bears are renowned as one of nature’s most formidable predators, especially when provoked. Known for their speed, being the fastest of their kind and their unparalleled bite force, they embody raw strength and dominance. It’s no wonder Eswatini-born rapper Grixxly chose to mirror his identity after such a beast. The name suits him, reflecting the ferocity of his lyricism and the way he maneuvers through flows with precision and unpredictability, much like a grizzly’s swift yet calculated strike. This very essence of danger and excitement is what I feel with his latest single, “Si Kasa”, featuring Eswatini’s RnB sensation, Mzwaa; an untamed force paired with soulful finesse.
It was in the fateful year of 2021 when I first encountered the lyrical prowess of Grixxly (born Sibusiso Malambe), an Eswatini rapper who would later etch his name into the annals of my musical obsessions. His debut extended play, “As the Fruits Ripen”, delivered a five-track symphony of thought-provoking verses, wrapped in the rich soundscapes of conscious rap and underscored by themes of growth, self-reflection, and the relentless pursuit of artistry. Self-produced and exquisitely curated, this 15-minute project painted vivid portraits of Grixxly’s journey from the heart of Mbabane, the capital city of the Kingdom of Eswatini. With each track, from the lyrical finesse on the intro “Blank Canvas” , to the ardent hunger for success in “Brema to Rio,” featuring Oriiginelle, to the contemplative poetry of “Said It,”Grixxly laid bare his soul. It became glaringly clear; this was no ordinary rapper; this was a lyrical visionary poised to breathe new life into Eswatini’s burgeoning hip hop scene.
Despite the bold statement he made with “As the Fruits Ripen” , Grixxly then retreated into the shadows, leaving fans, including myself, in quiet anticipation. Perhaps, this withdrawal was fitting, after all, when one has offered the world their tour de force, there may be no immediate need for another proclamation. Yet, Grixxly was never entirely absent from the sonic landscape. In 2022, he produced “A Thou Nyana” , a masterpiece by Oriiginelle featuring Swiss. Then in 2023, Grixxly re emerged on the remix of the same song, collaborating with Milkie, Nino Fresko, and PDot O, delivering what I consider the standout verse of the track. His distinct ad lib, “Ekse, It’s Too Much,” instantly became a memorable signature. Soon after, Grixxly gifted us a reflective single “Feel Me” , a candid reflection on his hiatus from music, personal loss, and the burden of expectations. He wrestled with the painful question of how much one must morph their identity to meet the ever-pressing demands of those around them.
And now, in 2024, the mystique has lifted. Grixxly has returned, fully immersed in his craft, starting the year strong with the release of “MusaWenkhosi” ( which translates to God’s Grace) on the 1st of March. A drill-infused anthem, the song was an ode to divine guidance, introduced to the audience through a gripping gospel themed rollout. In fact, for this rollout Grixxly gave himself the moniker “Bishop Grixx Lee Jakes” , to fit with the theme of the song. The rapper also took this as a chance to introduce his fans to a side of him that they hadn’t yet experienced by seamlessly blending siSwati and English. “MusaWenkhosi” resonated deeply with the people of Eswatini, dominating the local Eswatini Broadcasting Information Services (EBIS) radio charts for weeks on end.
His next offering, “No Mistakes”, a collaboration with fellow Eswatini rapper Amarii, dropped in April, a song I confidently assert as a contender for Eswatini Hip Hop Song of the Year. This flawless track not only cemented Grixxly’s place among the upper echelons but also earned him a coveted appearance on The Nadeska Show on Apple Music as Africa’s Rising Artist of the Week.
Today, on the 25th of October 2024, Grixxly strikes again with his latest single, “Si Kasa” , featuring his Antidote Music label mate Mzwaa. The track permeates with both buoyancy and silent desperation, echoing the artist’s enduring question, “When will the sun shine on us?” Over a self-produced beat infused with horns and piano that dance between the light and the dark, Grixxly demonstrates his masterful flow in siSwati. The emotionally charged beat switches, paired with Mzwaa’s poignant guest feature, create a soul stirring experience that serves as a reflection on the power of perseverance. Mzwaa’s verse elevates the track to new heights as he takes an unexpected swing into rap, showcasing his versatility and joining the ranks of RnB artists who can seamlessly switch genres. In fact, it’s as if Christmas came early, with Mzwaa delivering an unanticipated but welcome gift to his listeners. Grixxly delves into his unyielding dedication to his craft and the faith that his efforts will one day bear fruit. He leaves us with a powerful reminder: stumbling is inevitable, but the journey demands that we press on: undaunted, resilient, and always ready to try again.
As Grixxly remains firmly positioned among Eswatini’s upper echelons , one can only hope the rapper has more music in the pipeline. What’s truly bold about an artist like Grixxly is his refusal to be confined by genre or style. From experimenting with trap beats to delivering thought-provoking lyrics and compelling storytelling, he proves he can do it all. In the meantime, I’ll be revisiting his entire catalog, exclaiming “Ekse, it’s too much!” every step of the way.
