According to Nhlanhla “Nivo” Ndimande, the manager of Kiernan Forbes, who is affectionately known by his stage name AKA, the rapper knew that he would not be present to celebrate the launch of his latest album, Mass Country. Ndimande suggested that spiritually, AKA was aware that this was his final project, even though he might not have consciously known it, since he had never submitted an album so early in his career.
Sadly, AKA was killed outside a restaurant in Durban, where he had been performing at the relaunch of a nightclub. His death is thought to be a targeted hit, but no arrests have been made yet. Despite this tragic loss, Ndimande spoke about the making of Mass Country and how AKA had aimed to create an album that the people of South Africa could embrace and cherish.
The album features collaborations with several musicians, including AKA’s partner Nadia Nakai, Emtee, KDDO, Khuli Chana, Nasty C, and Blxckie. Ndimande praised the album, calling it one of AKA’s best works, and setting a new benchmark for South African music. He also highlighted how AKA had always been able to bring out the best in his collaborators, with many dubbing Nasty C and Khuli Chana’s verses as the most outstanding of their careers.
Despite the sadness of AKA’s passing, his team is determined to celebrate his legacy through his music. The album is available on all digital platforms.