Kane Keid: A Rising Star in South African Hip-Hop

Kane Keid, whose real name is Lonwabo Nkhoesa, is quickly carving out his place in the South African hip-hop scene. Born on August 22, 2003, in Tembisa, a township called Mayibuye, Kane’s upbringing in this tight-knit community exposed him to the raw realities of life. The hardships and experiences of growing up in Mayibuye are deeply embedded in his music, and Kane channels these experiences into his powerful, introspective lyrics.

Music has been a part of Kane Keid’s life since his early teenage years. At just 12 years old, he began writing his first raps, and by the age of 14, he had recorded his debut song, “Do What I Like,” which was inspired by Nasty C’s hit “Juice Back.” This early start marked the beginning of what would become a compelling music career.

Despite being a newcomer, his first official release, a collaboration with Gwaza titled “Heard It All,” made waves in his hometown, earning him local recognition and cementing his place in the growing South African hip-hop scene.

In 2020, Kane released his debut project, Dressed In Destruction. Though it wasn’t professionally recorded, the mixtape resonated with listeners from surrounding neighborhoods and allowed him to build a fan base. This early success was just a stepping stone, though, as 2023 marked a major turning point for the artist.

That year, Kane placed in the Top 10 of the prestigious Sportscene Put Me On competition, further establishing his credibility in the industry. Additionally, he dropped his official debut mixtape, DOLLAR, a project that solidified his role as one of the promising voices in South African hip-hop.

Kane Keid’s musical influences are diverse, drawing from both local and international artists.

He credits local vernacular rappers such as Siya Shezi, KO, and Kwesta for inspiring his sound, alongside international icons like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Joey Bada$$. This blend of local flavor and global influence shines through in his music, which balances reflective storytelling with sharp lyricism. His songs often delve into the struggles, triumphs, and life lessons that have shaped his journey, offering listeners a raw, unfiltered perspective on life in Tembisa and beyond.

One of his standout tracks, “Not Famous (Black Boy Fly),” released in 2024, captured widespread attention for its poignant lyrics and musical depth. The song served as a testament to Kane's growth as an artist and his ability to convey complex emotions through his craft. It was a perfect representation of his journey, from humble beginnings to the larger hip-hop stage.

As Kane continues to build his presence in the industry, he shows no signs of slowing down. His latest track, “War Ready,” which features collaborations with Priddy Ugly and Tyson Sybateli, has already garnered excitement among fans and critics alike. With each release, Kane Keid is proving that he is not just a rising star, but a force to be reckoned with in the South African music scene.

Kane’s journey is one of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of authenticity. As he continues to rise in prominence, his powerful storytelling and unique sound ensure that his impact on South African hip-hop will be felt for years to come. With his continuous drops he proves to be an artist to watch out for.

Check out his latest single "GOAT TALK" via all streaming platforms.

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