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K.O (rapper)
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Key Information

Ntokozo Mdluli (born 13 October 1978), known professionally as K.O, is a South African rapper,[1] songwriter, record producer and businessman He began his career as a member of Teargas, a hip hop group which released its debut album, K'shubile K'bovu, in 2006,[2] followed by Wafa Wafa (2008),[3] Dark or Blue (2009)[4] and Num8er Num8er (2012).[5]

After leaving Teargas, K.O pursued a solo career and released his solo debut album, Skhanda Republic (2014).[6] It debuted at #1 in South Africa and was certified platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA).[7]

K.O's second studio album, Skhanda Republic 2 (2017),[8] was released in partnership with Sony Music Entertainment Africa.

His fourth studio album, SR3 (2022),[9] was certified platinum by Recording Industry of South Africa. It spawned a single, "SETE", which debuted at number one on Radio Monitor Charts,[10] where it stayed for 19 consecutive weeks, his first single to reach that summit.

His accolades includes six South African Music Awards, three South African Hip Hop Awards and an MTV Award.

Early life

[edit]

Ntokozo Mdluli was born 13 October 1980 in Soweto Johannesburg.[11][12] He is the son of Thembisile Mdluli and Jabulani Mdluli.[13] K.O attended Vaal University of Technology and obtained a National Diploma in Public Relations Management.[14][15] After graduating, he spent two years unemployed before his mother submitted his résumé to the South African Police Service, although he ultimately did not attend the interview.

While attending Vaal University of Technology, Mdluli met his would-be bandmates Ezee "Ma-E" Hanabe and Bantu "Ntukza" Hanabe.[16] After completing his studies, K.O spent two years unemployed before his mother sent his CV to the South African Police Service. "I was trying to make demos with funding from my parents and they believed in my dream but I eventually started giving up. My mother sent my CV to the SAPS but I didn't go for the interview. The day of the interview I knew I was struggling but I couldn't go through with it," K.O was quoted saying in the Sowetan.[17]

Music career

[edit]

2004–2009: Teargas

[edit]

In 2004, while he was employed in Public Relations, K.O, Ma-E and Ntukza formed a hip hop group called Teargas.[18] In 2005, Teargas signed with Electromode Music. "We realised it would be better to join since we were already good friends who knew each other's rhyming style", K.O was quoted by News24.[19]

In 2006, Teargas released their debut album, K'shubile K'bovu. The album was very successful.[20] The fifteen-track album featured "Chance", a hip hop song chronicling a life of a township gangster seeking redemption, reminiscent of the early days of Kwaito.[21]

In 2008, Teargas released their second studio album, Wafa Wafa. In the sixteen-track album, the group worked with Bongo Riot on two songs, "Champions" and "Sunshine".[22]

In 2009, they released their third studio album, Dark or Blue.[4] In the thirteen-track album, Teargas collaborated with Tamarsha on the song titled "Life",[23] with DJ Tira and Liesl Penniken on the song titled "Party 101",[24] with Hip Hop Pantsula and Pro on the song "Goodfellaz"[25] and with Danny K on the song "T.L.C. (Tender, Love and Care)".[26]

In 2012, Teargas released their fourth and final studio album, called Number Number (stylized Num8er Num8er).[5] In the fifteen-track album, they worked with 2Face on "Turning Tables",[27] with Lilly Million on "Forgive Me",[28] with Toya Delazy on "Paradise"[29] and Ziyon on "Put U On".[30]

In an interview with the Sunday World K.O dismissed claims that Teargas split: "We have decided to individually try new things just like Mafikizolo did. We are taking a break but it does not mean we are a dead group."[31]

2013–2015: Skhanda Republic

[edit]

In 2013, K.O joined forces with Teargas bandmate Ma-E and music and marketing executive Thabiso Khati to form an entertainment company, Cashtime Life. K.O became its first artist.[32][33]

In 2014, K.O was featured on AKA's single "Run Jozi (Godly)".[34] The verse by K.O was ranked as one of the greatest verses in South African hip hop.[35]

In March 2014, he released a second single from his debut studio album, "Caracara", and it garnered over one million views on YouTube. "Caracara" won Record of the Year and Best Collaboration at the 20th annual ceremony of South African Music Awards.[36] In addition, "Caracara" was nominated for Best Hit Single, Best Collaboration and Best Music Video at the 14th Annual Metro FM Awards.[37]

K.O later released "Son of a Gun", a third single from his first album.

In November 2014, K.O's first solo album, Skhanda Republic, was released.[38] Skhanda Republic was nominated for Male artist of the Year and Album of the Year, and won Best Rap Album at 20th ceremony of South African Music Awards.[36] In addition, Skhanda Republic was nominated for Best Hip Hop Album and Best Male Album at the 14th Annual Metro FM Awards.[37]

K.O won the MTV Base MC of the year crown in November 2014.[39][40][41]

2016–2019: SR2, PTY UnLTD

[edit]

In July 2017, Ntokozo signed a partnership and distribution with Sony Entertainment.[42] He released his single "No Feelings" on 21 July. Production was handled by Hylton Brooker and Gemini Major.[43] The song was certified platinum, with sales of 25,000 copies.[44] He released a single, "Don Dada", featuring Okmalumkoolkat, on 14 October.[45]

Ntokozo released his second album, Skhanda Republic 2, in October 2017.[46] In March 2019, his single "Supa Dupa" was released as his third album's lead single.[47] The song was certified 2× gold, with sales of 20,000 copies.[48] "Say U Will" was released as the second single. He followed up with his third solo album, titled PTY UnLTD, in 2019.[49]

"Supa Dupa" was the only South African hip hop song to receive a gold plaque in 2019.

2021–2023: Skhanda Republic 3

[edit]

In September 2021, he announced his fourth album, Skhanda Republic 3, and released "Playback" on October 15, 2021.[50][51]

The second single, "Emoyeni", was released on March 25, 2022.[52]

His single "SETE" featuring Young Stunna and Blxckie was released on 22 August 2022, along with a music video.[53] The song debuted at number one on Radio Monitor Charts and remained there for 19 consecutive weeks, became the longest-charting single.[54][55] It also entered Local and International Radio Chart Top 10 at number 1.[56] In addition, "SETE" was number 1 on Official SA Charts list of SA's most streamed songs of 2022.[54]

The song was certified Multi-Platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa.[57]

His fourth studio album, Skhanda Republic 3, was released on 16 September 2022.[58] It features Sjava, Msaki, Zuma, Pabi Cooper and Sarkodie.

Upon its release the album debuted at number one on Spotify Weekly Top Albums SA Chart and was certified platinum by RISA.[59]

2024–present: Upcoming album

[edit]

His single "Too Much" with Nasty C was released on 15 August 2024. It debuted at number 10 on Local Streaming Charts.[60]

In August 2024, K.O announced his fifth studio album, I Think You Spoke Too Soon, set to be released on October 18.[61][62] On October 16 2024, K.O took to Instagram to announce that he has decided to push his album to the first quarter of 2025.[63] As of May 2025, the album has not been released.

K.O's new album, titled "Phara City" is scheduled to be released on June 13th, 2025. [64][65]

Personal life

[edit]

In May 2014, K.O lost a significant amount of weight. Rumours appeared on social media that K.O was HIV-positive.[66] His manager, Thabiso Khati, denied those rumours, stating that K.O had undergone a strict diet plan and was exercising regularly.[67][68] K.O later released a statement regarding his health and posted a picture of his blood test results on his Twitter and Instagram pages showing that he was HIV negative.[69][70]

Awards and nominations

[edit]

Channel O Africa Music Video Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref
2014 "Caracara" Most Gifted Male Nominated [71]
Most Gifted Duo/Group or Featuring Artist Nominated [71]
Most Gifted Hip Hop Nominated [72]
Most Gifted Southern Artist Nominated [72]
Most Gifted Video of the Year Nominated [72]

South African Music Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result
2015 "Skhanda Republic" Record of The Year ("Caracara") Won
Rap Album of The Year Won
Best Collaboration ("Caracara" ft Kid X) Won
2020 "PtyUnltd" Record of The Year ("Supa Dupa") Nominated
Rap Album of The Year Nominated
Best Collaboration ("Say You Will ft Nandi Madida") Won
2021 "Lucky Star" Best Produced Music Video Nominated[73]
2023[74] SR3 Male Artist of the Year Nominated
Album of the Year Nominated
"SETE" featuring Young Stunna, Blxckie Best Collaboration Nominated
Best Produced Music Video Nominated
SAMRO Highest AirPlay Composer Won
CAPASSO Most Streamed Song Won
"SETE" featuring Young Stunna, Oxlade and Diamond Platnumz Remix of the Year Nominated

South African Hip Hop Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2022 Best Video Won [75]
Best Collaboration Won
Song of the Year Won

Metro FM Music Awards

[edit]
K.O leads the 2023 Metro FM Music Awards nomination list with 7 nominations.
Year Category Recipient/Nominated work Results Ref.
2023 Song of the Year Nominated [76]
Artist of the Year Nominated
Best Hip Hop Artist Nominated
Best Male Artist Nominated
Best Music Video Nominated
Best Collaboration Song Nominated
Best Viral Challenge Nominated [77]

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

[edit]

Extended plays

[edit]
  • 2Piece (2018)

As member of Teargas

[edit]
  • K'shubile K'bovu (2006)
  • Wafa Wafa (2008)
  • Dark or Blue (2009)
  • Num8er Num8er (2012)

Singles

[edit]

As lead artist

[edit]
List of singles as lead artist, with selected chart positions and certifications, showing year released and album name
Title Year Peak chart positions Certifications Album
ZA
"Caracara" (featuring KiD X) 2014 6 Skhanda Republic
"Say You Will" (featuring Nandi Madida) 2019 PTY Unltd
"Supa Dupa" 1
"Lucky Star" 2021 Non-album singles
"K:HOVA" Non-album single
"Playback" Non-album single
"Emoyeni" 2022 Non-album single
"SKHANDAVILLE (Freestyle)" SR3
"Omega (Freestyle)" Non-album single
"SETE" (featuring Young Stunna and Blxckie) 1[79] RISA: 3× Platinum[80][81] SR3
"Rockabye" (featuring Toss) 2023 Non-album single
"Y.O.U." 2024 — Non-album single
"Let Me Cook" (featuring Maglera Doe Boy) — Non-album single
"Electra" — Non-album single
"On The Way (From "Losing Lerato 2")" — Non-album single
"Too Much" (K.O, Nasty C) 10[60] Non-album single
"We are K.O" — Non-album single
"King Size" (K.O, AKA) — Non-album single
"—" denotes a recording that did not chart or was not released in that territory.
[edit]
List of singles as featured artist, with selected chart positions and certifications, showing year released and album name
Title Year Peak chart positions Certifications Album
ZA
"God's Will" (DJ Vigilante featuring AKA & K.O) 2013 —
"Nobody But Me" (Vanesse Mdee featuring K.O) 2015 — Non-album single
"Kabelai (Pucado featuring Wizkid, K.O) —
"Money" (Ryki feat. K.O) 2018 —
"iWalk Ye Phara" (DJ Maphorisa, DJ Raybel featuring Moonchild Sanelly, K.O, Zulu Mkhathini) —
"Pasop! (DJ Vigilante feat. K.O, Maggz, Moozlie, MA-E, Kid X) 2019 —
"Bang Out" (DJ Vigilante featuring AKA, K.O, Nasty C) — Non-album single
"Killa Combo" (Skhanda World featuring K.O, Tellaman, Zingah, Mariechan, Loki.) 2020 —
"Section (Loki. featuring K.O) —
"Navigator" (MA-E featuring K.O) —
"Cold Summer" (Skhandaworld featuring K.O, Loki., Roiii, Kwesta) —
"Mshimane 2.0" (Stini Le Thwenny featuring K.O, Major League Djz, Khuli Chana) 2021 —
"Asambe" (DJ Mr X featuring K.O, Cassper Nyovest, Loki., Roiii) —
"Dear My Love" (Big Zulu featuring K.O, Siya Ntuli & Xowla) 2022 —
"Isitha" (Skhandaworld featuring Aymos, K.O, Loki., Roiii) 2023 —
"Namhlanje" (Xowla featuring K.O) 2024 — Non-album single
"—" denotes a recording that did not chart or was not released in that territory.

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

K.O (rapper)

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Ntokozo Mdluli (born 13 October 1980), known professionally as K.O, is a South African rapper, songwriter, , and entrepreneur from , , who rose to prominence as a founding member of the hip-hop group Teargas before establishing a successful solo career. Influenced by hip-hop legends from a young age, K.O began pursuing music seriously in the early while working in , eventually co-founding Teargas in 2004 alongside brothers Ma-E and Ntukza. The group signed with Electromode Music in 2005 and released four critically acclaimed albums—K'shubile K'bovu (2006), Wafa Wafa (2008), Dark or Blue (2009), and Num Num (2012)—that helped mainstream South African hip-hop with hits blending rap, R&B, and local flavors, earning them multiple . Following Teargas's disbandment in , K.O launched his solo career under the label, which he co-founded with Ma-E in the early to nurture emerging talent and promote a "skhanda" ethos rooted in Soweto . His debut solo album, Skhanda Republic (2014), topped the South African charts and spawned platinum-certified singles like "Caracara" and "Skhanda Love," solidifying his status as a commercial powerhouse. Subsequent releases, including Skhanda Republic 2 (2017), PTY UnLTD (2019), and Skhanda Republic 3 (2022), continued his streak of chart-topping success, with tracks like "Sete" (2022) achieving over 10 million streams and marking his evolution toward introspective, motivational themes. Beyond music, K.O has expanded into entrepreneurship, launching the Skhanda World fashion brand and managing Cashtime Life as a multimedia entity that has supported artists like Kid X and Moozlie. In 2025, he released his fifth solo album, Phara City, hailed as his most conceptual work yet, exploring themes of legacy, reinvention, and cultural pride, ahead of a planned hiatus from new music until 2026 to focus on visuals and performances. With over two decades in the industry, K.O remains a pivotal figure in South African hip-hop, known for his lyrical prowess, business acumen, and role in bridging underground roots with mainstream appeal.

Biography

Early life

Ntokozo Mdluli, professionally known as K.O., was born on October 13, 1980, at Baragwanath Hospital in , , . His parents are Thembisile Mdluli and Jabulani Mdluli, and the family originates from province. Shortly after his birth, his mother returned to their family home in (now Mkhondo), , where Mdluli spent much of his childhood amid the socioeconomic hardships faced by black South African families during the apartheid era, a system of that restricted opportunities and resources in rural and township communities. Growing up in Mpumalanga during the 1980s and 1990s, Mdluli developed an early interest in music and pop culture, influenced by the burgeoning South African kwaito scene in urban townships and international hip-hop artists. He cites rappers like Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., Snoop Dogg, and later Jay-Z as key inspirations from a young age, shaping his appreciation for hip-hop's rhythmic and poetic elements. After completing his matric, Mdluli enrolled at Vaal University of Technology, earning a National Diploma in Public Relations Management. In the early 2000s, following his graduation, Mdluli moved briefly to Soweto, immersing himself in the vibrant township's hip-hop culture and local music scenes. There, he had his first significant encounters with rapping through street cyphers and informal competitions with emerging artists, honing his skills in an environment rich with kwaito and early hip-hop influences. This period laid the groundwork for his professional entry into music, culminating in the formation of the group Teargas.

Personal life

K.O., born Ntokozo Mdluli, is the son of Thembisile Mdluli and Jabulani Mdluli, and has siblings.https://briefly.co.za/64481-ko-bio-age-full-wife-family-songs-album-cars-house-net-worth-profile.html He shares close bonds, occasionally posting photos with his parents and brother to highlight their support.https://www.facebook.com/brieflyza/posts/south-african-rap-musician-ko-has-demonstrated-true-family-goals-by-sharing-this/1888736664616895/ Currently unmarried, K.O. lives with his long-term partner, whom he has described as his "homegirl" and the right person to build a future with; in 2023, he publicly expressed eagerness to start a , though no children have been confirmed as of 2025, in line with his preference for privacy on intimate matters.https://sahiphopmag.co.za/2023/10/k-o-opens-up-about-his-desire-to-start-a-family-with-his-partner/ K.O. maintains deep roots in Soweto, Johannesburg, where he owns a modest, family-oriented home estimated at around 1 million ZAR, featuring functional design with family photos, music memorabilia, and a small backyard for community gatherings.https://entrepreneurhubsa.co.za/k-os-house-inside-a-rap-stars-soweto-home/ His birthplace, in province, remains a significant tie; he considers it his home province and has taken fans there to showcase his origins, often returning for personal and professional reasons.https://www.knysnaplettherald.com/Entertainment/Article/k-o-finally-gets-his-metro-fm-award-in-his-home-province-202505051030 Beyond music, K.O. pursues interests in , where his distinctive style has inspired a personal clothing line, Skhanda World, launched to monetize his aesthetic appeal and host events like fashion shows.https://www.news24.com/drum/celebs/news/ko-on-his-creative-journey-writing-hits-at-the-gym-and-dealing-with-notas-disrespect-20230726 Fitness plays a key role in his routine, with regular for stamina and breath control, supplemented by three weekly gym sessions—often at his home setup—to sustain performance energy and spark creative ideas during workouts.https://mh.co.za/getting-to-know-ko-better/ He stays connected to Soweto's community, emphasizing pride in township life and using his platform to celebrate local culture. No major health issues have been publicly disclosed.

Music career

2004–2012: Teargas and group beginnings

In 2004, Ntokozo "K.O." Mdluli, along with brothers Ezee "Ma-E" Hanabe and Bantu "Ntukza" Hanabe, formed the South African hip-hop group Teargas while studying at in . The trio, bonded by their shared passion for hip-hop and influences from Soweto's street culture, named themselves after the used by police during apartheid-era protests, symbolizing resistance and in their music. They signed with Electromode Music in 2005 as the label's first hip-hop act, marking their entry into the professional scene. Teargas released their debut album K'shubile K'bovu in July 2006, featuring 14 tracks that blended themes of hope, social awareness, poverty, and party anthems, with standout singles like "Chance" earning nominations for Song of the Year at the 2007 . The album established the group as a fresh voice in South African hip-hop, emphasizing lyrical depth over commercial trends. Their follow-up, Wafa Wafa (Do or Die) in 2008, explored ambition and perseverance, including the track "Champions" featuring Bongo Riot, and won Best Rap Album at the . The 2009 release Dark or Blue further solidified their influence, featuring collaborations with veterans like HHP, ProKid, and ; it received three SAMA nominations for Best Album and achieved gold certification in for sales exceeding 25,000 units, highlighting their crossover appeal and role in elevating hip-hop's cultural status. Throughout their run, Teargas toured extensively across South Africa, performing at major events and building a grassroots following through energetic live shows that showcased their chemistry as a unit. K.O. emerged as a central figure, serving as the primary lyricist, songwriter, and hook singer, contributing memorable verses and melodies that defined the group's sound and inspired a generation of rappers. Their final album, Num8er Num8er, arrived in 2012, incorporating township slang to convey messages of resilience, but internal tensions soon surfaced. The group's disbandment around 2012 stemmed from creative differences and conflicts, particularly between K.O. and Ntukza over solo ambitions, leading to a messy split marked by public trolling and unresolved beef that fractured their brotherhood. Ma-E attempted to mediate, but the fallout ended the trio's collaboration, with K.O. later describing the chapter as "long closed."

2013–2015: Skhanda Republic

In 2013, K.O transitioned from his group Teargas to pursue a solo career, forming the Skhanda Republic collective with former bandmate Ma-E and music executive Thabiso Khati under the label, which served as his imprint for independent releases. This move allowed him to develop his signature "Skhanda rap" style, blending township influences with hip-hop to create anthemic, uplifting tracks. The lead single "Caracara," featuring Kid X and released on March 3, 2014, showcased this evolution through its energetic production and lyrics celebrating resilience and street success, quickly gaining traction on South African radio and clubs. K.O's debut solo album, Skhanda Republic, arrived on November 7, 2014, comprising 11 tracks that emphasized motivational themes of perseverance, , and urban pride, marking a departure from the raw of his earlier group work toward more inspirational narratives. Key collaborations included appearances by MA-E, Maggz, and Masandi on tracks like "One Time" and "," while Nandi Mngoma added soulful vocals to "Skhanda ." The album debuted at number one on the South African charts, achieving significant commercial success and eventual platinum certification from the (RiSA) for sales exceeding 30,000 units. During this period, K.O also contributed a guest verse to AKA's single "Run Jozi (Godly)," released in July 2014 from AKA's album Levels, further solidifying his presence in the mainstream hip-hop scene. To promote the album, K.O embarked on the Skhanda Republic Tour across in late , including stops at venues like The Loop Nightclub in , and extended performances to other African countries such as in 2015. These efforts were complemented by international outreach, including planned shows in the UK and , alongside media appearances on platforms like and MTV Base, which highlighted his breakthrough as a solo artist. The album's positive reception, driven by its empowering messages and fusion of rhythms with hip-hop, positioned K.O as a leading figure in South African music, earning critical acclaim for revitalizing local rap with motivational energy.

2016–2019: Skhanda Republic 2 and PTY UnLTD

K.O released his second studio album, Skhanda Republic 2 (SR2), on October 13, 2017, through a partnership with Sony Music Entertainment Africa. The 12-track project built on the momentum of his debut, incorporating a blend of socially conscious lyrics and urban production, with notable collaborations including Shekhinah on "Above the Water," Runtown on "Call Me," and Cassper Nyovest on "Swagganova." Tracks like "Ms2" and "SA Rising" featuring Black Coffee highlighted K.O's evolving sound, shifting toward energetic party anthems infused with self-empowerment themes, emphasizing resilience and national pride in South African hip-hop. Production involved a mix of in-house Skhanda Republic contributors and external talents, creating a polished, radio-friendly aesthetic that marked K.O's commercial peak during this period. The album achieved significant chart success, debuting at number one on South African music charts and receiving widespread acclaim for its high-energy vibe and star-studded features. Following the release, K.O embarked on international tours across Africa, the UK, and the US, promoting the album through live performances that solidified his status as a leading figure in South African hip-hop. These outings, including radio appearances and festival slots, expanded his global footprint and underscored the project's role in elevating Skhanda Republic's brand. In 2019, K.O delivered his third studio album, PTY UnLTD, on September 27, released via Entertainment Africa. The 13-track effort featured singles such as "Supa Dupa," which achieved certification, and "Say U Will" with , a romantic collaboration that dominated radio airplay. Other highlights included "Flight School" featuring and , blending influences with hip-hop for an infectious, dance-oriented sound. PTY UnLTD represented a thematic evolution, leaning into party anthems like "" and "Citi Boi" while exploring self-empowerment through tracks such as "CR17," where K.O asserted his dominance in the industry amid personal and professional challenges. The album balanced street bangers with emotive reflections, produced by collaborators including Gemini Major and Space Club Music, fostering a vibrant, uplifting narrative of comeback and limitless potential. It charted highly, capturing K.O's artistic growth through high-impact partnerships that bridged South African and elements.

2020–2023: Skhanda Republic 3

The significantly impacted K.O.'s plans, leading to delays in the release of his fourth studio album, Skhanda Republic 3 (SR3), as he prioritized live tours that were halted by lockdowns and restrictions. In early 2022, K.O. explained that the inability to promote and perform the project in person prompted the postponement, stating he could not release music without the opportunity to connect with fans through live shows. The album was ultimately released on September 16, 2022, via Skhanda World and Sony Music Entertainment Africa, marking a return to form with production reuniting K.O. with longtime collaborator Lunatik, who helmed his 2014 debut. A major highlight was the lead single "SETE," featuring amapiano artist and rapper , released on August 19, 2022. The track, blending hip-hop with amapiano elements to evoke an "African opulent lovers anthem," achieved viral success, debuting at number one on South African charts and holding the top spot for 12 consecutive weeks. It became the fastest South African single to reach gold certification just five days after release and later multi-platinum status, while amassing 10 million streams in a record-breaking two months, the quickest for any local artist. SR3 features 14 tracks that explore themes of resilience amid personal and industry challenges, as well as township pride rooted in K.O.'s origins, continuing the Skhanda Republic series' celebration of street culture and perseverance. Standout cuts include the introspective "MS3," reflecting on career longevity, and "Fezeka" with Pabi Cooper, Zuma, and Ghanaian Sarkodie, which highlights collaborative energy and cultural exchange. The album earned platinum certification from the (RiSA) in July 2023, underscoring its commercial impact with over 30,000 units sold. Amid ongoing pandemic effects, K.O. adapted to digital promotion strategies for SR3, leveraging social media teasers and virtual listening sessions to build anticipation, while incorporating streaming platforms for global reach that compensated for limited physical tours. This shift allowed the project to thrive online, with "SETE"'s music video garnering millions of views on YouTube shortly after its September 2022 premiere.

2024–2025: Phara City

In April 2025, K.O announced his fifth solo album, Phara City, describing it as his most conceptual project to date, crafted over two years to reflect South Africa's social and political realities through themes of survival, hustle, identity, pride, and the nation's contradictions. The album, released on June 13, 2025, positions "Phara"—a term for those trapped in cycles of and crime—as a metaphor for broader societal struggles, while envisioning paths to legacy and renewal. Phara City spans 14 tracks, blending introspective lyricism with and hip-hop influences, and features collaborations with prominent South African artists including on "Pharadise," Blaq Diamond on "Phara Love," on "Supanova," on "Thokoza" alongside Naledi Aphiwe, King Promise on "," and 25K. Key tracks like the "Pharadise" highlight hustler anthems with upbeat production, while "No Chorus" emphasizes raw, verse-heavy storytelling without hooks. Production draws on nostalgic elements, with K.O co-producing several tracks alongside Lunatik and Afrotraction, incorporating self-taught beats and samples from iconic South African tunes to evoke environmental authenticity. Promotion centered on digital teasers and direct fan engagement, beginning with Instagram posts unveiling the title and artwork as a "musical love letter to Mzansi," followed by snippet releases of singles like "Pharadise." K.O amplified buzz through live listening sessions and performances, including a set at the Hype Sessions in July 2025 and appearances at events like At The Hill, where he previewed tracks and discussed the album's conceptual depth. Upon release, Phara City debuted at number one on South Africa's Apple Music Hip-Hop/Rap chart, holding the top spot through mid-June 2025 and demonstrating sustained streaming momentum into later months. Critical reception praised its authentic portrayal of South African grit and K.O's lyrical maturity as a voice for everyday hustlers, though some reviewers noted the nostalgic production felt safe and retrospective rather than innovative. Fan response has been overwhelmingly positive as of November 2025, with social discussions highlighting its relatable themes and collaborations as a high point in K.O's evolution, building on the momentum from his prior Skhanda Republic 3.

Business ventures

Record labels

K.O. co-founded in 2013 with Ma-E and Thabiso Khati as an and entertainment company focused on hip-hop and related genres, initially self-distributing before partnering with Entertainment Africa. The label served as a platform for K.O.'s solo career launch and to develop emerging talent from communities, signing artists such as Kid X (who released 3 Quarter Pace in 2015), Maggz, Ma-E, , and others. emphasized artist ownership, creative autonomy, and representation of Soweto's "skhanda" culture, blending management, publishing, and recording services. However, internal conflicts led to its collapse in 2017, with several artists departing. In 2020, K.O. launched Skhanda World Records as a new independent imprint under his Skhanda World multimedia brand, aiming to nurture raw talent overlooked by major labels and promote narratives of resilience. Signings included artists like , Tellaman, Mariechan, Zingah, and ROIII, with a focus on high-impact releases and community empowerment. The label partnered with for distribution on select projects, such as K.O.'s Skhanda Republic 2 (2017, released post-Cashtime via ). By 2024, all signed artists had amicably parted ways amid strategic shifts, leaving Skhanda World without a current roster as of November 2025, though K.O. continues to manage affiliated talent and focus on his own releases.

Other entrepreneurial activities

Beyond his music endeavors, K.O has established himself as a prominent figure in the industry through Skhanda World, his apparel brand that embodies the "skhanda" inspired by his music . Launched in 2014 as an extension of his creative vision, the brand offers collections including jackets, track pants, and cargos, with seasonal releases like the Autumn/Winter 2025 range featuring padded jackets and versatile pieces designed for everyday wear. In 2023, Skhanda World partnered with retailer Studio88 to expand distribution, making the line available in over 200 stores nationwide and culminating in a dedicated flagship store, SWave, in Rosebank, , which serves as a hub for and pop-ups. This collaboration has enabled broader accessibility, including the introduction of a kiddies' range in 2024, marking the brand's first foray into family-oriented apparel. K.O has also secured several high-profile endorsements that align with his entrepreneurial ethos, leveraging his influence in youth culture and urban markets. In 2018, he became an ambassador for Asics Tiger, a sportswear brand, promoting streetwear-infused athletic apparel through targeted campaigns that resonated with South African hip-hop audiences. More recently, in August 2024, K.O entered a partnership with Martell Cognac South Africa as a brand ambassador, focusing on themes of resilience and boldness to inspire consumers, with activations including performances at events like the Hollywoodbets Durban July in 2025. These deals have not only diversified his income streams but also positioned him as a cultural influencer bridging music and lifestyle brands. In terms of broader business partnerships, K.O signed a distribution and marketing deal with in 2017 for his Skhanda Republic 2, which facilitated international reach and platinum certifications for tracks like "Supa Dupa" and "No Feelings." Building on the foundation of his Skhanda brand, he expanded into tech accessibility in 2025 through a collaboration with fibertime™, aiming to deliver affordable to underserved townships, thereby addressing digital divides in South African communities. These ventures underscore K.O's role as a multifaceted businessman committed to scalable, impact-driven enterprises.

Awards and nominations

South African Music Awards

K.O has received multiple nominations and wins at the (SAMAs), recognizing his contributions to hip-hop and broader South African music. His breakthrough came in 2015 with accolades for his debut solo album Skhanda Republic and its lead single "Caracara" featuring Kid X, which helped establish him as a leading figure in the genre. Subsequent recognition, including a win in 2020, has underscored his enduring influence. The following table summarizes K.O.'s key wins and nominations at the SAMAs:
YearCategoryWorkOutcomeSource
2015"Caracara" ft. Kid XWon
2015Best Collaboration"Caracara" ft. Kid XWon
2015Best Rap AlbumSkhanda RepublicWon
2020Best Collaboration"Say You Will" ft. Won
2020Rap Album of the YearPTY UnLTDNominated
2021Best Produced Music Video"Lucky Star"Nominated
2023Male Artist of the YearSR3Nominated
2023Best Collaboration"Sete" ft. & Nominated
K.O. has secured four SAMA wins to date, primarily in rap and collaboration categories, which have bolstered his reputation as a consistent innovator in South African hip-hop. These honors, particularly the 2015 sweep, propelled his solo career forward following his time with Teargas, enhancing his commercial success and international visibility.

Metro FM Music Awards

K.O. has garnered significant recognition at the Metro FM Music Awards, an annual event celebrating excellence in South African music with a focus on urban radio hits and contemporary genres, including hip-hop. His nominations and win highlight his enduring influence in the hip-hop scene, particularly through standout singles that resonate with 's audience of urban music listeners. In 2015, K.O. received five nominations, primarily centered on his breakthrough single "Caracara" featuring Kid X from the album Skhanda Republic. The track was nominated for Best Hit Single, Best Collaboration, and Best , underscoring its impact as a radio favorite and visual standout in the hip-hop category. Despite the strong showing, K.O. did not secure any wins that year. K.O. returned to prominence in the nominations tally at the 2023 Awards, leading all artists with seven nods for tracks from his Skhanda Republic 3, notably the hit "Sete." These included categories such as Song of the Year, , Best Hip-Hop, Best Male Artist, Best Collaboration, Best , and a genre-specific viral award, reflecting the album's dominance on urban airwaves. However, he did not win any awards in 2023. Breaking through for his first Metro FM win came in 2025, when K.O., alongside Nasty C under the SkhandaWorld banner, took home Best Hip-Hop Song for "Too Much," a single tied to his Phara City era that captured widespread radio play and cultural buzz. This victory marked a milestone, affirming K.O.'s status in hip-hop amid Metro FM's emphasis on innovative urban sounds. Overall, K.O.'s accolades total at least 13 nominations across these years, positioning him as a key figure in the awards' hip-hop representation and demonstrating his ability to drive urban radio engagement without prior wins until 2025.
YearCategoryNominated WorkResult
2015Best Hit Single"Caracara" (feat. Kid X)Nominated
2015Best Collaboration"Caracara" (feat. Kid X)Nominated
2015Best Music Video"Caracara"Nominated
2023Song of the Year"Sete"Nominated
2023K.O.Nominated
2023Best Hip-HopK.O.Nominated
2023Best Male ArtistK.O.Nominated
2023Best CollaborationVarious from Skhanda Republic 3Nominated
2023Best Music VideoVarious from Skhanda Republic 3Nominated
2025Best Hip-Hop Song"Too Much" (with )Won

South African Hip Hop Awards

K.O has garnered significant peer recognition within the South African hip hop community through the South African Hip Hop Awards (SAHHAs), an annual event that honors excellence in local rap and hip hop artistry based on industry votes. At the 11th annual SAHHAs held on December 6, 2022, at The Lyric Theatre in , , K.O emerged as one of the top recipients, securing three major awards for his breakout single "Sete" featuring and from the album Skhanda Republic 3. These included Song of the Year, Best Video, and Best Collaboration, underscoring the track's lyrical depth, production quality, and collaborative synergy as pivotal to its cultural resonance. These accolades affirm K.O.'s status as a leading figure in elevating South African hip hop standards, with "Sete" exemplifying innovative fusion of trap influences and authentic storytelling that captivated voters from the rap fraternity.

Channel O Music Video Awards

K.O received five nominations at the 2014 Channel O Music Video Awards for his debut solo single "Caracara" featuring Kid X, marking his first such recognition as a solo artist following his time with the group Teargas. The nominations spanned key categories emphasizing the video's visual and artistic impact, including Most Gifted Male Video, Most Gifted Duo/Group or Featuring Video, Most Gifted Hip Hop Video, Most Gifted Southern Video, and Most Gifted Video of the Year.
CategoryNominees (selected)Outcome
Most Gifted Male VideoCassper Nyovest – "Doc Shebeleza", Davido – "Aye", K.O ft. Kid X – "Caracara"Nominated
Most Gifted Duo/Group or Featuring VideoK.O ft. Kid X – "Caracara", Kcee ft. Wizkid – "Pull Over", Riky Rick ft. Okmalumkoolkat – "Amantombazane"Nominated
Most Gifted Hip Hop VideoCassper Nyovest – "Ghetto", K.O ft. Kid X – "Caracara", Sarkodie – "Illuminati"Nominated
Most Gifted Southern VideoAKA – "Congratulate", Cassper Nyovest – "Ghetto", K.O ft. Kid X – "Caracara"Nominated
Most Gifted Video of the YearCassper Nyovest – "Doc Shebeleza", DJ Clock ft. Beatenberg – "Pluto", K.O ft. Kid X – "Caracara"Nominated
Despite the strong showing, K.O did not secure any wins, as South African rapper Cassper Nyovest claimed three awards, including Most Gifted Hip Hop Video and Most Gifted Southern Video, while Kcee ft. Wizkid won Most Gifted Duo/Group or Featuring Video. The "Caracara" video highlighted innovative production styles by blending South African isipantsula street dance traditions with modern hip-hop visuals, capturing the energetic township culture and contributing to its continental acclaim at the awards. Released in April 2014, it became the first South African hip-hop video to reach one million YouTube views, underscoring its visual artistry and role in elevating K.O.'s solo profile across Africa. No further nominations for K.O. at subsequent Channel O Music Video Awards have been recorded.

Discography

Studio albums

K.O has released five solo studio albums since launching his career as a lead artist, with each project showcasing his evolution in South African hip-hop. These full-length releases, primarily distributed through his Skhanda Republic imprint in partnership with Sony Music Entertainment Africa, have achieved commercial success, including multiple certifications from the (RiSA). The following table lists K.O's studio albums chronologically, including release dates, labels, and certifications where applicable.
TitleRelease dateLabelCertification
Skhanda RepublicNovember 7, 2014Skhanda Republic / (RiSA)
Skhanda Republic 2October 13, 2017N/A
PTY UnLTDSeptember 27, 2019Skhanda Republic / N/A
Skhanda Republic 3September 16, 2022Skhanda Republic / (RiSA)
Phara CityJune 13, 2025Skhanda Republic / N/A (surpassed 2 million streams within weeks of release)
Formats for all albums include digital download and streaming, with physical editions available for select releases.

Extended plays and mixtapes

K.O. released his debut , Two Piece, on June 8, 2018, as an independent project through his Skhanda Republic label. The EP features two tracks: "Fire Emoji" with AKA and "Waya Waya" featuring , blending hip-hop and influences to showcase collaborations with prominent South African artists. Designed as a concise release to bridge the gap between his full-length albums, Two Piece emphasizes high-energy verses and party anthems rather than expansive narratives, distinguishing it from K.O.'s more commercial studio efforts. The EP was made available on major streaming platforms including and , where it garnered attention for its star-powered features and timely drop amid K.O.'s evolving solo career. "Fire Emoji" highlights aggressive over a trap-infused beat, while "Waya Waya" incorporates upbeat rhythms, reflecting K.O.'s versatility in fusing genres. No further extended plays or mixtapes have been released by K.O. as of 2025, with his prioritizing studio albums and standalone singles for broader market impact.

Singles as lead artist

K.O. has released several notable singles as a lead artist throughout his , often serving as lead tracks for his and achieving significant commercial success in . These singles highlight his evolution in the hip-hop scene, blending introspective lyrics with infectious production that resonated on radio and streaming platforms. Key releases include early breakthroughs like "Caracara" and later hits such as "SETE," which set streaming records. The following table lists his primary lead singles chronologically, including release years, associated , peak chart positions where available, and certifications from the (RiSA).
TitleYearAlbumPeak Chart Positions (South Africa)Certifications (RiSA)
"Caracara" (feat. KiD X)2014Skhanda Republic#1 iTunes Hip Hop/Rap; Top 30 All GenresNone for single; album platinum
"Supa Dupa"2019PTY UnLTDN/APlatinum (2021)
"SETE" (feat. & )2022SR3#1 Streaming Chart; #1 Radio Monitor (19 weeks)10 million streams recognized (2022); multi-platinum equivalent
"Pharadise" (feat. )2025Phara CityN/ANone reported as of November 2025
"Caracara" marked K.O.'s breakout, dominating charts and gaining widespread radio across South African stations upon its release. "Supa Dupa" followed as a confident solo statement, earning status for over 90,000 units sold or equivalent streams. "SETE" became a cultural phenomenon, topping streaming charts and holding the Radio Monitor #1 spot for a record 19 weeks, while amassing over 10 million streams in its first three months—the fastest for a South African track at the time. For his 2025 album Phara City, "Pharadise" emerged as the , capturing themes of urban hustle and receiving strong initial radio rotation, though full metrics were still emerging by late 2025. K.O. has lent his distinctive lyrical style to several singles as a featured artist, often elevating tracks with memorable verses that blend sharp and cultural references. His contributions span from early hip-hop collaborations during the Teargas era to post-solo ventures that highlight his adaptability in South African music landscapes, including fusions with and emerging sounds. These appearances have not only boosted the host tracks' commercial success but also underscored K.O.'s role in bridging hip-hop with broader genres, enhancing cross-genre appeal through infectious flows and thematic depth. Early in his career, K.O. featured on L-Tido's "We Rolling" (2011), delivering the hook and second verse on a summer anthem that captured the energetic vibe of street culture and became one of the biggest records of its time. In 2013, he joined AKA on DJ Vigilante's "God's Will," a high-energy hip-hop track that topped charts and showcased his chemistry with contemporaries through rapid-fire delivery. Transitioning to his solo phase, K.O.'s verse on AKA's "Run Jozi (Godly)" (2014) from the album Levels is widely regarded as one of the greatest in South African hip-hop history, with playful yet skillful bars that propelled the single to gold certification by the (RISA) and over 3 million views. His 2018 feature on "iWalk Ye Phara" by and DJ Raybel, alongside and Zulu Mkhathini, marked a pivot toward dance-infused sounds akin to amapiano's precursors in and house, amassing millions of streams and illustrating his versatility in club-oriented tracks. In more recent years, K.O. continued to impact hip-hop with his appearance on Touchline's "Abafana Aba Hot" (2020) from the album S.O.O.N 2 (A Better Year), a gritty collaboration ranked among the top 15 South African hip-hop songs of the year for its raw and replay value. Extending into 2024, he featured on Xowla's "Namhlanje," a reflective hip-hop single that debuted on major streaming platforms and reinforced his enduring influence in the genre amid evolving trends.
YearSingleMain ArtistNotes
2011"We Rolling"L-TidoSummer hit with K.O. on hook and verse; key early collaboration.
2013"God's Will"DJ Vigilante (feat. AKA)Chart-topping hip-hop track; highlighted group synergy.
2014"Run Jozi (Godly)"AKAGold-certified single; iconic verse praised for cultural impact.
2018"iWalk Ye Phara" & DJ Raybel (feat. , Zulu Mkhathini)Genre-blending house track; over 12 million views, showcasing cross-appeal.
2020"Abafana Aba Hot"TouchlineTop-ranked 2020 hip-hop song; strong narrative verses.
2024"Namhlanje"XowlaContemporary hip-hop single; streamed widely on release.

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  99. https://thenativemag.com/south-african-hip-hop-awards-2022/
  100. https://mg.co.za/article/2014-09-05-channel-o-africa-announces-music-video-awards-nominees/
  101. https://mg.co.za/article/2014-12-01-boom-shaka-cassper-nyovest-among-channel-o-winners/
  102. https://www.nairaland.com/2021585/choamva14-channel-o-music-video
  103. https://www.kickoff.com/sa-news/fame-and-fortune/ko-music-video-featuring-kid-x-caracara-20140502
  104. https://anyiko.blog/2015/10/02/k-o-meets-octo-in-musics-role-in-defining-africa-artist-talk-back/
  105. https://southernafricantimes.com/ko-returns-with-bold-new-album-i-think-you-spoke-too-soon/
  106. https://sahiphopmag.co.za/2025/07/k-os-phara-city-blazes-past-2-million-streams-just-weeks-after-release/
  107. https://www.okayafrica.com/ko-just-released-a-2-track-ep-featuring-aka-and-cassper-nyovest/205756
  108. https://iol.co.za/entertainment/music/local/2018-06-09-k-o-debuts-new-ep-two-piece/
  109. https://fakaza.com/download-mp3/k-o-two-piece-ep/
  110. https://music.apple.com/us/album/two-piece-single/1389966780
  111. https://www.shelflife.co.za/magazine/k-o-releases-ep-feat-aka-and-cassper-nyovest
  112. https://genius.com/artists/Ko/albums
  113. https://sahiphopmag.co.za/2016/04/tbt-l-tido-we-rolling-video-ft-k-o/
  114. https://music.apple.com/pg/album/gods-will-feat-aka-k-o-single/633970127
  115. https://open.spotify.com/track/3P8donEhOkjkFE6Gv6anCu
  116. https://hiphopafrica.net/watch-k-o-and-aka-reunite-to-perform-smash-hit-run-jozi/
  117. https://music.apple.com/us/song/iwalk-ye-phara-feat-moonchild-sanelly-k-o-zulu-mkhathini/1401368410
  118. https://open.spotify.com/track/75sTLVjlWPUTobrRE6rWLz
  119. https://www.okayafrica.com/the-30-best-south-african-hip-hop-songs-of-2020-ranked/287866
  120. https://trendybeatz.com/download-mp3/42693/touchline-abafana-aba-hot-ft-k.o
  121. https://music.apple.com/us/album/namhlanje-feat-k-o-single/1751521276
  122. https://open.spotify.com/track/0NofrfC376r1sj0oIb3gOQ
  123. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6bLUiRTGUk
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