Who is Kwesta?
Kwesta, born Senzo Mfundo Vilakazi on August 11, 1988, in the township of Katlehong, Gauteng, South Africa, is widely regarded as one of the most influential and celebrated figures in the South African music scene. His rise from a township poet to a global hip-hop superstar is a testament to his exceptional talent, relentless drive, and unwavering dedication to his craft. With a career that spans over a decade, Kwesta has become the face of South African hip-hop, bridging local sounds with global hip-hop culture, and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Kwesta’s journey into music started at a young age. Growing up in the vibrant but often challenging environment of Katlehong, Kwesta was exposed to a wide variety of sounds, including hip-hop, kwaito, and African rhythms. His love for music began in his teenage years when he started writing poetry and rapping. By the time he was 15, he had formed a rap group with his friends called Ghetto Fellaz, which later evolved into The Juvenylz. The group performed at local events and competitions, which helped Kwesta hone his skills as an artist.
However, Kwesta’s breakthrough came when he decided to take a leap of faith and drop out of school at the age of 16 to pursue music full-time. This bold decision set him on the path to becoming one of South Africa’s most respected musicians. His early work as an underground rapper soon gained the attention of local producers and music enthusiasts, leading him to release his debut album “Special ReKwest” in 2010. Although the album was a modest success, it marked the beginning of a promising career in the South African music industry.
The Rise of Kwesta: DaKAR and DaKAR II
Kwesta’s major breakthrough came with the release of his second album, DaKAR in 2013. The album was a turning point in his career, as it introduced him to a wider audience and showcased his unique style of combining hip-hop, kwaito, and township influences. Tracks like Stomp and Pump It became anthems in the South African music scene, with Kwesta earning recognition for his lyrical prowess, authenticity, and ability to blend genres.
However, it was his third album, DaKAR II, released in 2016, that solidified Kwesta’s place as a giant in South African hip-hop. The album featured some of his most iconic tracks, such as Ngud’ (featuring Cassper Nyovest), Nomayini, and Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe (featuring Thabsie). DaKAR II not only became one of the best-selling South African hip-hop albums of all time but also earned Kwesta multiple awards and accolades, including several South African Music Awards (SAMAs).
The Global Impact of Kwesta
Kwesta’s success with DaKAR II catapulted him into the international spotlight. His collaborations with artists like Wale on Spirit brought him global recognition. Spirit, which was released in 2017, became one of Kwesta’s most internationally successful tracks, blending local South African hip-hop with global sounds. The song’s success led to Kwesta performing on international stages and solidifying his reputation as a global artist.
His ability to merge local South African sounds with global hip-hop and trap elements made him a standout figure in the African hip-hop scene. By collaborating with artists from the U.S., U.K., and across Africa, Kwesta managed to create a sound that was both authentically South African and universally relatable. This ability to merge global appeal with local authenticity has made him a role model for aspiring musicians in South Africa and beyond.
Kwesta’s Iconic Songs and Collaborations
Kwesta’s discography is rich with hit songs, collaborations, and memorable moments in South African hip-hop history. Below are some of his most iconic songs and collaborations that have defined his career:
Ngud’ (feat. Cassper Nyovest)
Released as part of DaKAR II, Ngud’ became one of Kwesta’s signature tracks and a fan favorite. The song, which features rapper Cassper Nyovest, blends kwaito and hip-hop, with an infectious hook that quickly became an anthem in South Africa. Ngud’ topped the charts and solidified Kwesta’s place in the mainstream South African music scene. The collaboration with Cassper Nyovest, one of South Africa’s biggest hip-hop stars, created a massive buzz in the industry and made the track a cultural milestone.
Spirit (feat. Wale)
One of Kwesta’s most internationally recognized songs, Spirit, featuring Wale, was released in 2017. The track was a major milestone in Kwesta’s career, as it marked his first major collaboration with an international artist. The song blends hip-hop and trap with traditional South African sounds, creating a cross-continental fusion that resonated with global audiences. Spirit went on to achieve platinum certification and became one of the most successful hip-hop songs in Africa in 2017.
Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe (feat. Thabsie)
Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe, featuring Thabsie, is a beautiful love song that showcases Kwesta’s softer side. The track, which was a huge commercial success, was one of the standout singles from DaKAR II. It became a massive hit in South Africa and earned Kwesta multiple awards, including song of the year at the South African Music Awards. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and melodic flow made it one of Kwesta’s most beloved tracks, with fans still requesting it on radio stations and at live performances.
Mayibabo (with DJ Maphorisa)
Released in 2024, Mayibabo is another hit that demonstrates Kwesta’s versatility as an artist. The song, a collaboration with DJ Maphorisa, blends house music, kwaito, and hip-hop, reflecting Kwesta’s ability to adapt to different musical genres while maintaining his distinct sound. The track became a favorite on dance floors across South Africa, further cementing Kwesta’s status as one of the country’s top artists.
Other Notable Tracks
Kwesta’s music spans a variety of styles, from hip-hop and kwaito to trap and Afro-beats. Some of his other notable tracks include:
- “Run It Up”
- “Pretty Flowers” (feat. Stogie T)
- “Vur Vai”
- “Mmino” (feat. TLT)
Collaborations and Features
Kwesta has collaborated with many artists throughout his career, both within the South African music scene and internationally. Some of the most notable collaborations include:
- Cassper Nyovest on Ngud’
- Wale on Spirit
- Thabsie on Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe
- Stogie T on Pretty Flowers
- MFR Souls on Macala
- Nadia Nakai on Yass Bitch
Kwesta’s collaborations have allowed him to stay relevant and continuously evolve as an artist. His ability to blend his signature style with other genres and sounds has made him a sought-after collaborator in the South African music industry.
Kwesta’s Influence on South African Hip-Hop
Kwesta’s contribution to South African hip-hop cannot be overstated. He was one of the first artists to successfully combine kwaito and hip-hop, making his music accessible to a wide range of audiences. His storytelling, rooted in township life and the South African experience, resonated with fans across the country. Additionally, his success paved the way for other South African rappers to explore new sounds and push boundaries in their music.
Kwesta’s music has also been a source of cultural pride for South Africans. His ability to mix local languages, including Zulu, Sotho, and Xhosa, with global hip-hop influences has made him a voice for South African youth and a symbol of their resilience and determination.
The Legacy of Kwesta
Kwesta’s legacy is built not only on his musical achievements but also on his contributions to the hip-hop culture in South Africa and beyond. His authenticity, versatility, and cultural pride have made him an icon in the African music scene. He continues to be an inspiration for younger artists, and his influence can be seen in the rise of hip-hop and Afro-rap across the African continent.
Conclusion
Kwesta’s journey from a young poet in the streets of Katlehong to a global hip-hop star is a remarkable tale of talent, resilience, and perseverance. With a career that spans over a decade, Kwesta has earned his place as one of the most influential figures in South African hip-hop. His ability to blend local sounds with global influences has made him a beloved figure not only in South Africa but also around the world.
As Kwesta continues to evolve and create new music, his impact on the global music scene will only grow. His legacy is one of authenticity, cultural pride, and innovation, making him an enduring force in the ever-evolving world of hip-hop. Whether it’s through his iconic hits like Ngud’, Spirit, or Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe, or his collaborations with artists from across the world, Kwesta’s influence on music will be felt for generations to come.
