Francesca Villette
ONE of South Africa’s hottest hip hop artists, AKA, says there is more to him possibly winning at this year’s Black Entertainment Television (BET) awards in Los Angeles than simply scooping an award.
If he brought home the Best International Act: Africa title, it would be a first for southern Africa, the Cape Town-born rapper
said yesterday.
The 2016 BET Awards celebrate mass achievements in black entertainment, and honour music, sports, television and movies.
AKA shares his category with South African nominees Black Coffee and Cassper Nyovest.
Nominees in other categories include rapper/singer Drake, and record-breaking female singer-songwriter Beyoncé.
“East and west Africans usually take home the title, and I would like to bring it home for us.
“Being nominated never gets old, and it is great to be acknowledged by your peers in the music industry,” said AKA.
AKA, whose birth name is Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, was born in Cape Town in 1988. His latest album Levels, including tracks Run Jozi( Godly) and All Eyes on Me, has sold more than 40 000 units and has reached platinum status.
AKA’s list of awards includes best street urban music album and male artist of the year at the 18th South African Music Awards (Samas).
“I was up for the award last year, and I can honestly say a lot has changed, like I’ve become a father.”
Asked what he would like from his fans and South Africans, AKA said: “For them to keep growing their support and appreciation of local artists.”
Fans can vote for their favourite artist at BET.com or by tweeting or tagging @BET_intl on Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #ipick. Voting closes on June 22.
francesca.villette@inl.co.za
@FrancescaJaneV