Nkanyiso Nkosinathi Mkhize, known to fans as NKR, is making waves across South Africa’s music landscape with his genre-bending artistry and bold career moves.
The 29-year-old vocalist, songwriter, and musician from Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal, has carved out a unique space in Afro Pop and Afro House by infusing traditional Maskandi elements into modern soundscapes. From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition NKR’s musical journey began in 2000, inspired by legends like Thokozani Langa, Oskido, and Mgqumeni. His early years saw him leading the Maskandi group Amasikela and later joining gospel ensemble Izethembiso Zikam’dali. In 2017, he stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist with his debut single Uthando Lwami.
Since then, his catalogue has grown to include standout tracks like Wamuhle (ft. SboDaPoet & Percy), Sebevumile (ft. Fanele Z Da Poet), and the SATMA Award-winning Wengoma Yami featuring Thokozani Langa.
His 2022 album #IlangaLiphumile showcased his versatility, blending Amapiano, AfroTech, and House, while his 2024 EP Emkhaya delivered the radio-charting hit Nom’lingaduma. New Management Deal & Latest Release In a major career milestone, NKR has signed with The House of Thom, a leading creative agency known for nurturing top-tier talent.
The announcement coincides with the release of his latest single Ngizohlala Nawe, a rich collaboration featuring Ayarhkay, Olefied Khetha, and Princess Melo. The track is a soulful blend of Afro Pop and Maskandi-inspired rhythms, layered with contemporary house beats.
Joining The House of Thom is a big moment for me,” NKR said. “Their belief in my vision and their track record with other great talents gives me the confidence that we are about to do something special — not just for me, but for the culture.”
Industry Recognition
NKR’s accolades include: 2017 UEA Award – Best Music Video 2018 UEA & 035 Awards – Best Male Artist 2020 SAGA Nominee – South African Gqom Awards 2021 SATMA Award – Best Traditional House Music Song MKHMA Nominee – Best House
Connect with NKR For bookings and media inquiries:
MissT – The House of Thom +27 60 827 8460
bookings@thehouseofthom.co.za
Follow NKR: – Facebook: Nkanyiso NKR Mkhize / Real NKR The Artist – Instagram / Twitter / TikTok: @nkrwangempela
Ngizohlala Nawe is now streaming on all major platforms.
Siyanda Ngqayimbana A.K.A. Da blaq Bull: From the Streets of Makhaza to Global Hip Hop Recognition
Siyanda Ngqayimbana, also known as Da blaq Bull, is an emerging hip-hop sensation whose journey from the vibrant streets of Makhaza to the global music stage is capturing hearts and turning heads. Born and raised in the heart of 37sec Ghost Town, Siyanda’s narrative is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
Siyanda’s love affair with rap began in 2014 while growing up in Site B, Khayelitsha. At the time, he was not yet recording his tracks, instead opting to express his lyrical prowess through freestyle videos captured on his phone. It wasn’t until he moved back to Makhaza in 2017 that Siyanda’s latent passion for music found fertile ground. In an environment where his friends weren’t particularly attuned to the hip-hop genre, Siyanda’s determination to create music was unyielding. He remained focused on his studies until the call of the craft could no longer be ignored.
A turning point came in Grade 10 when Siyanda’s ardor for writing and rapping was rekindled. A chance Facebook post seeking a studio in Makhaza led him to an encounter with fellow recording artist Nasy C Alta. This meeting marked the inception of Siyanda’s professional music journey. Under Nasy C Alta’s guidance, Siyanda recorded his first track, “Bombay,” produced by SO Deno which rapidly gained viral traction within his community. The track’s success not only established Siyanda as a force to be reckoned with but also ignited a fervor for musical expression that couldn’t be contained.
Siyanda’s trajectory skyrocketed when he collaborated with fellow Cape Town artists Mossi l Bay and Cynth Kid on “Ithongo Lemambs,” a collaboration that etched his name into the very fabric of Cape Town’s hip-hop scene. His international footprint expanded further with the release of “War Ready,” a collaboration with American artist Mizzy Hendrix . This transcontinental collaboration was a testament to Siyanda’s cross-cultural appeal, capturing the attention of listeners across digital platforms.
However, the journey was not without its obstacles. As the studio where he had been recording closed its doors, Siyanda’s musical momentum came to a temporary halt. But in 2023, a stroke of luck revitalized his journey. With the support of a neighbor who happened to be a recording artist armed with a laptop, Siyanda produced his latest track, “Testimony.” A song initially written in 2022, “Testimony” encapsulates Siyanda’s resilience and his unrelenting spirit to keep creating despite the odds.
Mark your calendars for September 20th as Siyanda Da Bull drops “Testimony” across all digital platforms. The release promises to be a testament not only to his growth as an artist but also to his dedication to his craft.
Siyanda Da Bull also has thrilling collaborations on the horizon. With a forthcoming track featuring the talented American artist Moonraq, alongside Mizzy Hedrix, Siyanda’s influence is poised to transcend borders. Furthermore, a collaboration with Rap God and kill Kris’s , another exceptional American artist, is also in the works, promising a musical experience that bridges continents.
Siyanda Da Bull Ngqayimbana’s journey is an ode to the resilience and passion of Africa’s rising hip-hop stars. His relentless drive and unwavering belief in his artistry continue to shape his path to greatness. As Siyanda continues to amplify his presence on the global music stage, he remains an inspiration to aspiring artists across the world.
