This week, the entertainment world mourns the loss of one of South Africa's most prolific rappers and producers, Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, better known as AKA.
The legendary artist passed away tragically on February 10, 2023, leaving behind a rich legacy that spanned the entire African continent. Dadaboy Ehiz has hosted a special tribute show to honour his life and artistic contributions, where AKA's frequent collaborators, including Musa Keys, K.O, and Nasty C, gather to reflect on his influence on the hip-hop scene in South Africa and beyond.
In a heartwarming conversation with Apple Music, Nasty C, who recently collaborated with the late rapper on the single 'Lemonade,' shares his thoughts about the loss of a fellow artist and friend. It's clear that AKA's impact on the music industry was immeasurable, and his sudden death shocked fans and colleagues alike.
AKA's impact on South African hip-hop was like no other. He’s one of the guys that commercialised rapping in English. He paved the way for people like me here in South Africa as far as hip-hop goes. He’d always been a big brother to me; he’d always been caring; he always gave me tips and advice on elevating my game. He will live forever in my heart.”
“AKA is one of the people that really took showmanship to the next level. When you listen to his catalogue and [consider] how he created his music, he created it for big stages. He was the first to fully immerse himself into being a ‘pop’ act. Yes, he was an MC, but you know, he wanted to be a ‘pop’ artist, and you can hear it in the music, the texture, the tone, and the energy, and I think he successfully executed that.”
AKA, who was also known as Supamega, was fatally shot alongside his friend and manager Tibz in front of a restaurant in Florida, Durban, on his birthday. The incident left fans and colleagues reeling with shock and disbelief, and the music industry is still grappling with the loss of such a talented and beloved figure.
On Friday, February 18, 2023, AKA was laid to rest in a private ceremony in Sandton, South Africa, where family, friends, and fans gathered to pay their final respects. But even in death, AKA's music lives on, and his posthumous album, 'Mass Country,' is set for release on Friday, February 24, 2023. The project promises to be a celebration of his life and a testament to the legacy he has left behind.
Long-term collaborator K.O hailed AKA for his drive and ambition w,hich propelled him to success beyond the Hip Hop scene.
