NOT MANY ARTISTS CAN PULL OFF WHAT K.O HAS DONE transcending trends and time with such finesse. Born Ntokozo Mdluli, the mastermind behind South Africa's biggest hip-hop hits, has built a legacy that stretches over a decade, yet his hunger for more remains as sharp as ever. "I'm always evolving, man. You have to stay hungry and ahead of the curve," he says. His music, visuals, merchandise and business moves are crafted with such intention that even the OGs in the industry aspire to emulate him. To maintain that level, you've got to keep your feet firmly on the ground. "I don't walk around like a celebrity; I refuse to be a slave to that concept because I want the freedom to make mistakes like everyone else. I'm a normal human being, and that's something I prioritise above my work."
The hip-hop genre thrives on egos and commanding attention, but K.O exudes a quiet confidence rooted in his impressive credentials. When discussing the top five South African hip-hop classic albums from the 2000s, he expresses the esteem of being listed among some of SA's greatest rappers. "I have two classic albums under my name.
Firstly, Skhanda Republic the album that has 'Caracara' and 'Skhanda Love' - and Dark or Blue album with Teargas. Being able to be in that list is amazing because we're talking AKA's Levels, Cassper Nyovest's Tsholofelo, and Pro Kid's Dankie San. I think it's a toss-up between Cassper Nyovest's "Doc Shebeleza" and Emtee's debut album, Avery. Either way, I'm there twice," he says, with a hint of pride.
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der November 2024-Ausgabe von GQ South Africa.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent ? Anmelden
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der November 2024-Ausgabe von GQ South Africa.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent? Anmelden
CREATIVE MINDS BEHIND THE CAMERA
A creative director, a filmmaker and a video director - three Ghanaian visionaries share their unique approach to fashion and visual storytelling
Body Odours You Shouldn't Ignore
A little whiff of sweat or muskiness may not be cause for concern, but some smells can signal a health concern that are worth taking a bit more seriously
THE MOST CONSISTENT IN THE GAME
K.O's greatest strength is his adaptability in the evolving music industry while staying true to his roots. From his days as a member of Teargas to solo hits like \"Caracara\" and \"Sete,\" he proves that he is always one step ahead
POWER & PASSION
Off the field and comfortable with SA rugby's MVPs, Eben Etzebeth and Cheslin Kolbe
GUNNING FOR GLORY!
BURNING UP THE GLOBAL STAGE, BLXCKIE HAS A THING OR TWO TO SHOW US ABOUT SUCCESS
Final Edition
From 2025, Jaguar will go fully electric. To say farewell to their internal combustion felines, our motoring editor Dieter Losskarn joined the megabrand in taking their latest F-Type sportscar on one last lap
WRITING THEIR NEXT CHAPTERS OF SUCCESS TOGETHER
The collaboration between Bisquit and Dubouché and Kwesta is kicking into gear with an initiative to drive a new wave of pioneering spirits
Exceeding all the Hype
Group managing director at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa, Michael Kewley injected charm and artistry into the space, elevating its status of luxury
Grand Cruiser
Our motoring editor Dieter Losskarn was pleasantly surprised by how much he liked the new Prado. In fact, it is one of the best SUV/4x4 vehicles he's driven in a long time. Here's why...
Why Does Everyone Have Big, Fake White Teeth Now?
Veneers were once a dirty secret. Now, they're a luxury status symbol and the famous and wealthy are flocking to Hollywood's favorite dentist in search of even more perfect smiles