Latest news with #Emtee
The Citizen
22-07-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Local talent, global sound: Kennyking's rise in music and entrepreneurship
Heidelberg, Gauteng – Local musician, producer, and songwriter Kenny Dlamini, known as Kennyking, is making his mark in the music industry, both at home and abroad. Known for his dynamic sound and entrepreneurial spirit, the Heidelberg-born artist is quickly becoming a name to watch. With his music already featured on radio and television platforms in South Africa, as well as on international radio stations in cities like New York and Austin, Texas, Kennyking's reach continues to grow. His hit single Waiting for You gained massive traction on SlikourOnLife, achieving over 40 000 downloads in just one week in 2023. 'I am incredibly grateful to everyone who supported me along the way,' Kenny said. 'I hope the community will continue to back me as I keep pushing boundaries in music and business.' Having shared the stage with popular South African artists such as Emtee, Lolli Native, Ranks ATM, The Big Hash, Tam Carson, and F-eezy, Kennyking has proven himself to be more than just a performer. He is a rising force with a clear vision. In 2024, Kennyking ventured into entrepreneurship by launching his own clothing label, McPhee Runner. Although the brand faced financial challenges, he remains determined to revive it and is actively seeking investors or collaborators who share his passion for business and creativity. 'It's about building a legacy,' he said. 'Whether through music or entrepreneurship, I want to inspire and create opportunities.' Kennyking is more than just an artist – he is a brand, a visionary, and a young man determined to turn potential into lasting success. Follow Kennyking on social media and streaming platforms. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
News24
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
Rapper Cruz Afrika bags Moja Love reality TV show
He is unafraid to confront those he believes have wronged him; however, after years of public disputes with various artists, he is now prepared to seek reconciliation. Over the years he has made more than a handful of controversial headlines, once accusing singer Aubrey Qwana of stealing the song Molo. Then, a year later, he had a fallout with rapper Emtee over an Illuminati conspiracy theory. African Trap musician and influencer Cruz Afrika, real name Tshepo Modise, is now all grown up and no longer 'chasing clout' as he gears up to release new music. Cruz tells Drum that he is trying to make peace with everyone he has fallen out with in the past and starting on a clean slate. On 5 September, he will be releasing his single Tau with a surprise feature. His upcoming single comes two years after taking a short break to focus on working behind the scenes. Read more | S'bu Malawyer celebrates 30 years of Kwaito with star-studded show 'I have not released music in two years. I was focusing on promoting my artist, DJ Lisa, and working behind the scenes, making sure I have a great product by the time I release new music.' Cruz Afrika says his new sound has matured, and so has his character and personality. 'Back then, we wanted to trend and be known; now we make good music that will be timeless.' He has also wrapped shooting his reality show set to premiere on Moja Love in August. 'I can't wait for people to get a glimpse into my life,' he says. 'People know who I am, but they don't know me outside of the music and the controversy. I run a successful business behind the scenes,' he adds. Cruz Afrika rose to fame as a young dancer and choreographer for big stars like Zola7, Stoan of Bongo Muffin, and Jub-Jub. He has featured Phila Madlingozi, Ntosh Gazi, Red Button, Emtee, Maraza, Zola7, Rhyma, and Eindo. Born in Taung in the North West, his music saw him win a Black Entertainment Award (BEA).
IOL News
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Emtee's heartfelt tribute to AKA amid murder investigation controversy
South African rapper Emtee has expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the late musician Kiernan "AKA" Forbes. Emtee's reflective message not only celebrates AKA's influence on his life but also underscores the enduring bond they forged during their time together in the industry. In a tribute shared recently on the social media platform X, South African rapper Emtee has expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the late musician Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, better known as AKA . 'Some y'all idols don't even know you exist. I shared stages, past blunts, cracked jokes and won awards together. I'm talkin' about the one and only @akaworldwide,' Emtee passionately proclaimed. This nod to their camaraderie captures the essence of their relationship: more than just fellow artists, they were brothers who navigated the highs and lows of fame side by side. This touching sentiment is not a new chapter; it echoes previous instances where Emtee has spoken openly about his connection with AKA, highlighting the mentorship and brotherly love that marked their interactions. During a 2023 interview on the 'L-Tido Podcast', Emtee recounted the last conversation he had with the late rapper. He recalled that their final meeting coincided with the recording of the song 'Crown', which features on AKA's posthumous album 'Mass Country'. 'AKA was one of the people who loved me for me, never judged me. What's crazy is that the last time I saw him was when we were recording 'Crown'. His last words to me were, 'Stay safe, stay alive',' Emtee remembered, noting the length and intensity of their final embrace, which left a lasting impression on him. 'That day he was humble,' he added. Emtee's reflections extend beyond personal reminiscences; he also credits both AKA and Riky Rick for motivating him to embrace fatherhood earnestly. 'Ricky and Mega used to always big me up for raising my kids … Sh#t ain't easy but we thrive, and I'm gonna thrive till the casket drops,' he shared. Despite this heartfelt celebration of AKA's legacy, the late rapper's name has recently resurfaced in a more controversial light following shocking allegations within the South African police force. Earlier this week, Deputy National Commissioner of Crime Detection, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya, responded to serious accusations made against him by KwaZulu-Natal Commissioner General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Mkhwanazi's stirring claims during a press conference implicated Sibiya in improper conduct regarding the investigation into AKA's murder.
News24
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
Emtee celebrates rising like a phoenix after MetroFM award win - ‘I have no regrets'
He makes music that resonates deeply, weaving together poignant lyrics and captivating storytelling. For him, the microphone serves as a powerful instrument of healing. For the first time in years, he was nominated at the MetroFM awards. Back in 2015, Emtee gave us Roll Up, We Up and Pearl Thusi in his debut album which were all hits, marking him as the Hip Hop superstar to look out for in the game. After leaving Ambitiouz Entertainment in 2019 to launch Emtee Records, Emtee faced a decline in his music career, plagued by controversies. However, he recently celebrated a comeback by winning Best Album at the Metro FM Awards for his 2024 project, DIY 3. Proudly, he accepted the award on stage with his kids, who he calls his biggest motivation. 'I do not consider this a comeback but if that's what people want to call it, then cool. I can run with that. In any situation, I always feel the need to be in the studio as much as I can, so I've been doing what I've been doing almost my whole life which is making music no matter what happens,' he tells Drum. Speaking about how it feels to take an award again for the first time in years, he says it feels like a genuine victory this time around. Read more | Emtee speaks out on alleged abuse: "While she was holding me by my neck, I could see evil in her eyes" 'It feels good to take an award home. I'm not new to winning but this one feels really genuine because at least this time around nobody said anything about me buying an award and most people were genuinely happy for me so it's great.' Talking about the making of the award-winning album, he says he learned of the beauty of working hard in silence and seeking his purpose. 'Making this album was cool because it was during a time where I was being scrutinised by people who mostly don't even know me like that so I had to be in studio. While a lot of negative things were said about me and I love that because working hard in silence can be so rewarding especially because I didn't have anyone to push me to wake me up regardless of how I felt about what was being said about me.' Despite the tough few years, this affirmed him that he still has superstar potential. To him, it wasn't just an award. It was an inspiration to others to never give up on their dreams. 'Never give up on your dreams and people can have opinions, judge us as creatives and forget that we are human but what matters most is what one thinks of themselves. I think I'm meant to beat odds and overcome any challenge God grants me. Giving up on anything is the last thing on my mind,' he imparts some advice. Despite facing tough times without support, he continued to work in the studio and pursue his passion, even when many in the industry had written him off. 'I never left the industry at all. I can understand why people would think that. One of the reasons is because there's people who feel like they have the right to declare someone's career over and the beauty of it all is that while everyone talks like they always do, I'm in the studio so they don't know the tricks I have up my sleeves to shock them and I don't fault anyone for thinking or feeling that way because I have had a roller coaster of a life.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hustle (@emteethehustla) He shares with Drum how glad he is to have his hard-work shows. 'The past few years of my life have not been the best but I'm grateful because I'm able to pick who I surround myself with, who I share what with and how I move going forward because I have learnt that it's easy to shift the blame on me because I'm the face, the brand and to a lot of people it just sounds juicy to associate my name with negative things because everyone assumes that they know what it takes to become the guy in the front line leading a generation of artists and creatives.' Through it all though, he says his three kids kept him grounded and focused on the bull's eye – his musical success. 'Unlike a lot of my peers, I'm a parent of three and my responsibilities differ from a lot of my peers. Like every other album of mine, I take on a new journey and this time around it's for my well-being and to be more realistic about life in general and to become the mogul or idol I've always wanted to be and lead the next generation the right way.' Read more | Emtee mourns the death of his manager and childhood friend Earlier this year, he celebrated 10 years of his musical career with a one-man show that boasted the performances of Sjava and Big Zulu. 'The one-man show was not me taking a chance or rolling a dice. It was mainly to celebrate a decade of my commercial career. It was also to show that I'm dedicated and loyal to what I do and to remind those who truly support me that I'm a real musician and to set the tone as I go full on as the professional that I truly am in essence,' he elaborates on it. Looking back on his journey, the rapper says he has no regrets, but he does wish that he had never met certain people in his life. 'I sometimes wish I never met certain people because I don't think I have it in me to sabotage myself regardless of what happens. My intentions have always been pure and whole. Whether I'm helping someone or receiving help and sometimes that gets misunderstood or taken the wrong way.' 'I wouldn't change anything about my journey. If not me then who? At the same time, I wouldn't wish this journey on my worst enemy and it's my story, my journey and legacy to embrace otherwise how will I inspire the kid who's losing hope?, he adds' Emtee promises that more music, visuals and shows are yet to come from the superstar as he rises like a phoenix while raising his kids and 'carrying on with the fight to live and grow'.
IOL News
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Moozlie returns with 'Go Getter': a fierce anthem for independent hustlers and dream chasers
Rapper Moozlie has finally released new music, much to the delight of her fans, who have been patiently waiting. Picture: Supplied/Jr Ecko Image: Supplied/Jr Ecko Nomuzi Mabena, widely recognized as Moozlie, is a multifaceted creative force. Her talents span presenting, emceeing, creative direction, and rapping, solidifying her position as a dynamic and versatile artist. Her new single 'Go Getter' announces Moozlie's return to releasing music. This is her first release since her 2020 album 'Spirit of an OG'. Despite not releasing any music, Moozlie hasn't been away, she's been featured on songs with Nadia Nakai, XXC Legacy, and Emtee to mention a few. 'Go Getter' was born at a music camp Moozlie hosted to get herself back into the swing of things, when it comes to music. At a private listening session, Moozlie revealed that she would be releasing singles first before going full force and dropping a project. The new single is a fresh bop that is made for anyone who identifies with being a 'go getter', chasing after their dreams, doing the necessary work needed. 'It's for the hustlers, people on a mission... It's an independent anthem as well to be like I do it on my own. I ain't got anybody. I do things on my own strength and also it's like a turn-up song. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ 'Independent women are also having a good time, living softly, they are having a great life and that is what this song is about.' Moozlie is known for her fiery rap bars and cadence, which made her a household name among Mzansi's female rappers. She is a go-getter, her name is associated with presenting, music, creativity, and fashion. She places God at the forefront of everything she does. 'Everything I do is to bring glory to his name, I think that's why I excel.' She jokes that living in Cyril Ramaphosa's economy is something that pushes her to work hard as no one is going to save her, except herself and that is why she works hard.' Rapper Moozlie is back and she has finally released new music! In an interview with IOL Entertainment, she breaks down her new single 'Go Getter'. Video: Oluthando Keteyi/IOL#NewMusic #Moozlie #IOLentertainment — IOL Lifestyle (@IOL_Lifestyle) May 2, 2025 At the music camp, Moozlie learned that throughout all the changes in the industry, and life itself she still does have it and she can be good at a lot of things and that is okay. Moozlie's been in the hip hop game for 10 years, from her days at Cashtime Entertainment to branching out into a solo artist and even going independent, she's pretty much done it all. 'I love South African hip hop… I think the culture is brilliant, I think about what it can do for your legacy, I think about Riky Rick. It's beyond music, it's a community, dreams coming true, and faith. 'One of the reasons I am coming back is because I also want a chance to play, it's such an exciting time.' 'Go getter' is available on all digital platforms. IOL Entertainment
