Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu in Johannesburg, South Africa
In South Africa’s vibrant hip-hop and urban culture scene, few have shaped its growth as strongly as KO (real name Ntokozo Mdluli). With nearly two decades at the top of showbiz, the rapper has become a benchmark for consistency in an industry known for its fast turnover.
The celebrated artiste famed for songs such as Caracara and Sete, is set to make his Bulawayo debut in December when he headlines the Bulawayo Shutdown concert.
For KO, who rose to prominence as part of the influential rap trio Teargas, stepping onto a stage in Bulawayo marks a significant new milestone. He described the experience as entering “uncharted territory”.
“Performing in Bulawayo for the first time is going to be a new experience for me, seeing that it (Bulawayo Shutdown) has been going on for the past 10 years now. I know that in Zimbabwe, specifically Bulawayo, there are a lot of people that follow my music from what I see on social media.
“So, I’m looking forward to getting reacquainted with them and continuing to build with those who are in love with what I have to offer,” KO told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub in an exclusive interview.
This debut performance in the city will add to a career decorated with major achievements. The event taking place on December 27 will see KO sharing the stage with fellow South African Amapiano sensation Young Stunna.
They will perform alongside a powerful line-up of Zimbabwean talent including Noluntu J, Fab G Mshanakagogo, Bhila, Ma9nine, Insimbi ZeZhwane, Silent Killer, Jnr Spragga, Hulengende, Chillmaster, Winky D and rising star, Ngwere Diki.
Reflecting on his music journey, KO highlighted key moments that have shaped him.
“Some of the milestones of my career were during my Teargas days where we were the only South African act to go to the Black Entertainment Television (BET) Awards in 2011. I remember being in that room with those big names. It was definitely a new experience for us,” he said.
His trailblazing run continued as a solo artiste.
“Also, I was the first hip-hop artiste to win the ‘Song of the Year’ gong at the South African Music Awards. That was a nice pat on the back as far as my ambition and things that I had laid out for myself.”
KO’s creative output remains steady. In July, he released his latest album, Phara City, a project painting a vivid picture of crime, wealth and lawlessness in South Africa. He assured fans that more material is always in the works, saying he “won’t stop creating”.
His longevity in the industry is undeniable. His music has consistently crossed hip-hop borders, producing mainstream hits such as Sete and Caracara, while his technical prowess as a rapper continues to earn him respect. He attributes his staying power to a steadfast philosophy: taking time to perfect the craft rather than chasing “microwave results”.
As a seasoned creative, he offered advice to emerging artistes.
“The stuff that I do, not only inspires those who are trying to get into the space. My music mirrors self-assertion, encouragement, and being able to look within, building oneself inside out instead of the opposite because we can’t be necessarily seeking outside gratification for us to get where we need to go.
“That fire that burns inside needs to be the anchor of everything that one does. That has always been my message.”
Beyond music, KO has been teaching young people financial literacy and entrepreneurial principles necessary for navigating the business side of the industry. —@MbuleloMpofu
