{{Short description|South African rapper, songwriter, record producer and businessman}} {{Use dmy dates|date=September 2024}} {{CS1 config|mode=cs1}} {{Use South African English|date=September 2024}} {{Infobox musical artist | name = K.O | image = | landscape = yes | alt = | caption = | birth_name = Ntokozo Mdluli | alias = {{unbulletedlist|Skhanda Gawd|K:Hova|Ndade|Mr. Cashtime}} | birth_date = {{birth date and age |1980|10|13|df=y}} | occupation = {{hlist|Rapper|songwriter|record producer|businessman}} | spouse = | partner = | birth_place = [[Mkhondo]], [[Mpumalanga]], [[South Africa]] | genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]] | years_active = 2005–present | label = {{flatlist| * [[Cashtime]] Life ({{small|former}}) * [[Sony Music]] Africa }} Skhanda World | associated_acts = {{flatlist| * [[Teargas (group)|Teargas]] * [[Maggz]] * [[Moozlie|Nomuzi]] * [[AKA (rapper)|AKA]] * [[Ma-E]] * [[Emtee]] * [[Cassper Nyovest]] * [[Sjava]] * [[Vanessa Mdee]] * [[Kwesta]] }} | past_member_of = [[Teargas (group)|Teargas]] | website = <!-- --> }}
'''Ntokozo Mdluli''' (born 13 October 1978), known professionally as '''K.O''', is a South African rapper,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.iol.co.za/saturday-star/news/ko-shines-after-coming-out-from-dark-cloud-34445910|title=K.O shines after coming out from dark cloud|publisher=iol.co.za|access-date=17 February 2020}}</ref> songwriter, record producer and businessman He began his career as a member of [[Teargas (group)|Teargas]], a hip hop group which released its debut album, ''K'shubile K'bovu'', in 2006,<ref>{{Citation |title=K'shubile K'bovu by Teargas on Apple Music |date=2006-07-07 |url=https://music.apple.com/za/album/kshubile-kbovu/683164998 |access-date=2024-06-01 |language=en-GB}}</ref> followed by ''Wafa Wafa'' (2008),<ref>{{Citation |title=Wafa Wafa by Teargas on Apple Music |date=2008-03-24 |url=https://music.apple.com/za/album/wafa-wafa/683176479 |access-date=2024-06-01 |language=en-GB}}</ref> ''Dark or Blue'' (2009)<ref name=":0">{{Citation |title=Dark or Blue by Teargas on Apple Music |date=2009-09-11 |url=https://music.apple.com/za/album/dark-or-blue/358721469 |access-date=2024-06-01 |language=en-GB}}</ref> and ''Num8er Num8er'' (2012).<ref name=":1">{{Citation |title=Num8er Num8er by Teargas on Apple Music |date=2012-08-23 |url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/num8er-num8er/555621088 |access-date=2024-06-01 |language=en-US}}</ref>
After leaving Teargas, K.O pursued a solo career and released his solo debut album, ''[[Skhanda Republic (album)|Skhanda Republic]]'' (2014).<ref>{{Citation |title=Skhanda Republic by K.O on Apple Music |date=2014-01-01 |url=https://music.apple.com/mz/album/skhanda-republic/1468562953 |access-date=2024-06-01 |language=en-GB}}</ref> It debuted at #1 in [[South Africa]] and was certified platinum by the [[Recording Industry of South Africa]] (RISA).<ref>{{cite web|title=The Source {{!}} Meet K.O, the platinum-selling emcee putting South Africa on the map |url=https://thesource.com/2015/12/08/meet-k-o-the-platinum-selling-emcee-putting-south-africa-on-the-map/|first=Idia|last=Ogala|date=8 December 2015|publisher=The Source}}</ref>
K.O's second studio album, ''Skhanda Republic 2'' (2017),<ref>{{Citation |title=SR2 by K.O on Apple Music |date=2017-10-13 |url=https://music.apple.com/au/album/sr2/1290941494 |access-date=2024-06-01 |language=en-AU}}</ref> was released in partnership with [[Sony Music Entertainment Africa]].
His fourth studio album, ''[[SR3 (album)|SR3]]'' (2022),<ref>{{Citation |title=SR3 by K.O on Apple Music |date=2022-09-16 |url=https://music.apple.com/vg/album/sr3/1640084503 |access-date=2024-06-01 |language=en-GB}}</ref> was certified platinum by Recording Industry of South Africa. It spawned a single, "SETE", which debuted at number one on Radio Monitor Charts,<ref>{{Cite web |last=GAANAKGOMO |first=CONSTANCE |date=25 November 2022 |title=K.O's 'Sete' makes history after staying at number one for 12 consecutive weeks |url=https://www.theherald.co.za/lifestyle/leisure/2022-11-25-kos-sete-makes-history-after-staying-at-number-one-for-12-consecutive-weeks/ |access-date=24 May 2025 |website=The Herald}}</ref> where it stayed for 19 consecutive weeks, his first single to reach that summit.
His accolades includes six [[South African Music Awards]], three [[South African Hip Hop Awards]] and an [[MTV Award]].
== Early life == Ntokozo Mdluli was born 13 October 1980 in Soweto Johannesburg.<ref name="briefly">{{cite web|author =Julie Kwach|url=https://briefly.co.za/64481-ko-bio-age-full-wife-family-songs-album-cars-house-net-worth-profile.html|title=K.O bio age, full name, wife, family, songs, album, cars, house, net worth, profile|website=briefly.co.za |date=3 June 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtvbase.com/music/artist/ko/yed28w&grqid=tTqhMNAO&s=1&hl=en-ZA|publisher=Mtvbase.com|title=K.O|access-date=17 February 2020}}</ref> He is the son of Thembisile Mdluli and Jabulani Mdluli.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ghafla.com/music/ko-ms2/&grqid=W1hy5Gws&s=1&hl=en-ZA|publisher=ghafla.com|title=Ntokozo Mdluli|access-date=17 February 2020}}{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> K.O attended [[Vaal University of Technology]] and obtained a [[National Diploma (South Africa)|National Diploma]] in [[Public relations|Public Relations Management]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/entertainment/2014-11-29-ko-doing-more-than-ok/&grqid=zL1YwjCG&s=1&hl=en-ZA|date=29 November 2014|title=K.O doing more than Ok|publisher=sowetanlive.co.za|access-date=17 February 2020}}{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Faeza |title=Mzansi celebrities and their university qualifications |url=https://www.snl24.com/drum/archive/mzansi-celebrities-and-their-university-qualifications-20170728 |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=Drum |language=en-US}}</ref> After graduating, he spent two years unemployed before his mother submitted his résumé to the South African Police Service, although he ultimately did not attend the interview.
While attending [[Vaal University of Technology]], Mdluli met his would-be bandmates Ezee "Ma-E" Hanabe and Bantu "Ntukza" Hanabe.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-05-18 |title=DJ Qness Gathers His Biggest Collab Team Yet As He Drops 'Starry Sky' with Locnville And K.O |url=https://www.samusicnews.co.za/local-music/dj-qness-gathers-biggest-collab-team-yet-drops-starry-sky-locnville-k-o/ |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=SA Music News Magazine |language=en-US}}</ref> After completing his studies, K.O spent two years unemployed before his mother sent his CV to the [[South African Police Service]]. "I was trying to make demos with funding from my parents and they believed in my dream but I eventually started giving up. My mother sent my CV to the SAPS but I didn't go for the interview. The day of the interview I knew I was struggling but I couldn't go through with it," K.O was quoted saying in the ''[[The Sowetan|Sowetan]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=K.O. doing more than ok |url=https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/entertainment/2014-11-29-ko-doing-more-than-ok/ |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=SowetanLIVE |language=en-ZA}}</ref>
== Music career == === 2004–2009: Teargas === In 2004, while he was employed in Public Relations, K.O, [[Ma-E]] and Ntukza formed a [[Hip hop music|hip hop]] group called [[Teargas (group)|Teargas]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=See Teargas in Soweto |url=https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/entertainment/2011-09-12-see-teargas-in-soweto/ |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=SowetanLIVE |language=en-ZA}}</ref> In 2005, Teargas signed with Electromode Music. "We realised it would be better to join since we were already good friends who knew each other's rhyming style", K.O was quoted by [[News24 (website)|''News24'']].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Teargas and world domination |url=https://www.news24.com/news24/teargas-and-world-domination-20150429 |access-date=2024-06-04 |website=News24 |language=en-US}}</ref>
In 2006, Teargas released their debut album, ''K'shubile K'bovu''. The album was very successful.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Motau |first=Dimakatso |title=K.O's aiming high! |url=https://www.snl24.com/dailysun/news/entertainment/kos-aiming-high-20151215-2 |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=Daily Sun |language=en-US}}</ref> The fifteen-track album featured "Chance", a hip hop song chronicling a life of a township gangster seeking redemption, reminiscent of the early days of Kwaito.<ref>{{Cite magazine |title=Another Chance with Teargas |url=https://www.news24.com/channel/another-chance-with-teargas-20081201 |access-date=2024-06-01 |magazine=Life |language=en-US}}</ref>
In 2008, Teargas released their second studio album, ''Wafa Wafa''. In the sixteen-track album, the group worked with Bongo Riot on two songs, "Champions" and "Sunshine".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bongo Riot |url=https://genius.com/artists/Bongo-riot |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=Genius |language=en}}</ref>
In 2009, they released their third studio album, ''Dark or Blue''.<ref name=":0" /> In the thirteen-track album, Teargas collaborated with Tamarsha on the song titled "Life",<ref>{{Citation |title=Life feat. Tamarsha by Teargas on Apple Music |date=2009-09-11 |url=https://music.apple.com/bw/song/life-feat-tamarsha/358721511 |access-date=2024-06-04 |language=en-GB}}</ref> with [[DJ Tira]] and Liesl Penniken on the song titled "Party 101",<ref>{{Citation |title=Party 101 feat. Tira & Liesl by Teargas on Apple Music |date=2009-09-11 |url=https://music.apple.com/za/song/party-101-feat-tira-liesl/358721518 |access-date=2024-06-04 |language=en-GB}}</ref> with [[Hip Hop Pantsula]] and [[Pro (South African rapper)|Pro]] on the song "Goodfellaz"<ref>{{Citation |title=Goodfellaz feat. Pro & HHP by Teargas on Apple Music |date=2009-09-11 |url=https://music.apple.com/za/song/goodfellaz-feat-pro-hhp/358721584 |access-date=2024-06-04 |language=en-GB}}</ref> and with [[Danny K]] on the song "T.L.C. (Tender, Love and Care)".<ref>{{Citation |title=T.L.C. feat. Danny K by Teargas on Apple Music |date=2009-09-11 |url=https://music.apple.com/za/song/t-l-c-feat-danny-k/358721707 |access-date=2024-06-04 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
In 2012, Teargas released their fourth and final studio album, called ''Number Number'' (stylized ''Num8er Num8er'').<ref name=":1" /> In the fifteen-track album, they worked with 2Face on "Turning Tables",<ref>{{Citation |title=Turning Tables by Teargas & 2Face on Apple Music |date=2012-08-23 |url=https://music.apple.com/za/song/turning-tables/555621534 |access-date=2024-06-04 |language=en-GB}}</ref> with Lilly Million on "Forgive Me",<ref>{{Citation |title=Forgive Me by Teargas & Lilly Million on Apple Music |date=2012-08-23 |url=https://music.apple.com/za/song/forgive-me/555621539 |access-date=2024-06-04 |language=en-GB}}</ref> with [[Toya Delazy]] on "Paradise"<ref>{{Citation |title=Paradise by Teargas & Toya Delazy on Apple Music |date=2012-08-23 |url=https://music.apple.com/za/song/paradise/555621548 |access-date=2024-06-04 |language=en-GB}}</ref> and [[Liquideep|Ziyon]] on "Put U On".<ref>{{Citation |title=Put U On by Teargas & Ziyon on Apple Music |date=2012-08-23 |url=https://music.apple.com/za/song/put-u-on/555621597 |access-date=2024-06-04 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
In an interview with the Sunday World K.O dismissed claims that Teargas split: "We have decided to individually try new things just like Mafikizolo did. We are taking a break but it does not mean we are a dead group."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.swazidata.com/konkhe/khaset/teargas_go_away.html&grqid=_wluQ0Aw&s=1&hl=en-ZA|title=Teargas Go Away|publisher=swazidata.com|access-date=17 February 2020}}{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
=== 2013–2015: ''Skhanda Republic'' ===
In 2013, K.O joined forces with Teargas bandmate Ma-E and music and marketing executive Thabiso Khati to form an entertainment company, Cashtime Life. K.O became its first artist.<ref>{{Cite web |title=K.O Essentials on Apple Music |url=https://music.apple.com/mw/playlist/k-o-essentials/pl.9c6833c304944c18a80be9612f9bccd8 |access-date=2024-06-04 |website=Apple Music - Web Player |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Thakurdin |first=Karishma |title=Ntukza and Ma-E rubbish feud rumours |url=https://www.news24.com/channel/ntukza-and-ma-e-rubbish-feud-rumours-20150801 |access-date=2024-06-04 |magazine=Life |language=en-US}}</ref>
In 2014, K.O was featured on AKA's single "Run Jozi (Godly)".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Yanga Chief on 'not being credited' on AKA's 'Run Jozi' |url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2020-11-06-yanga-chief-on-not-being-credited-on-akas-run-jozi/ |access-date=2024-06-04 |website=TimesLIVE |language=en-ZA}}</ref> The verse by K.O was ranked as one of the greatest verses in South African hip hop.<ref>{{Cite web |title=K.O's 20 Best Verses Ranked - Okayplayer |url=https://www.okayafrica.com/ko-20-best-verses-ranked/ |access-date=2024-06-04 |website=www.okayafrica.com |language=en}}</ref>
In March 2014, he released a second single from his debut studio album, "[[Caracara (song)|Caracara]]", and it garnered over one million views on YouTube. "Caracara" won Record of the Year and Best Collaboration at the 20th annual ceremony of South African Music Awards.<ref name=News24/> In addition, "Caracara" was nominated for Best Hit Single, Best Collaboration and Best Music Video at the 14th Annual Metro FM Awards.<ref name=citizen/>
K.O later released "Son of a Gun", a third single from his first album.
In November 2014, K.O's first solo album, ''[[Skhanda Republic]]'', was released.<ref>{{Citation |title=Skhanda Republic by K.O on Apple Music |date=2014-01-01 |url=https://music.apple.com/eg/album/skhanda-republic/1468562953 |access-date=2024-06-04 |language=en-GB}}</ref> ''Skhanda Republic'' was nominated for Male artist of the Year and Album of the Year, and won Best Rap Album at 20th ceremony of South African Music Awards.<ref name=News24>{{cite news|url=https://www.news24.com/life/here-are-all-the-2014-sama-winners-20140428|title=Here are all the 2014 Sama winners|date=2014-04-28|access-date=2024-09-17|location=South Africa|language=en-ZA|url-access=subscription|publisher=News24}}</ref> In addition, ''Skhanda Republic'' was nominated for Best Hip Hop Album and Best Male Album at the 14th Annual Metro FM Awards.<ref name=citizen>{{cite web|title=Winners of the 14th annual Metro FM Music Awards |url=https://www.citizen.co.za/roodepoort-record/uncategorized/2015/03/03/winners-of-the-14-annual-metro-fm-music-awards-2/amp|work=The Citizen|date=3 March 2015 |access-date=2024-09-17}}</ref>
K.O won the MTV Base MC of the year crown in November 2014.<ref>{{cite web |title=MTV Base teases public, releases second half of SA's hottest MC list|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2014-11-19-mtv-base-teases-public-releases-second-half-of-sas-hottest-mc-list-/ |work=TimesLive|first=Bernice |last=Maune|access-date=2024-09-17}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=K.O is crowned MTV Base Hottest MC of the Year |date=2014-11-21|first=Bernice|last=Maune |url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2014-11-21-ko-is-crowned-mtv-base-hottest-mc-of-the-year/|access-date=2024-09-17}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=K.O voted the country's hottest MC for 2014|location=South Africa|language=en-ZA|url-access=subscription |publisher=SowetanLIVE|url=https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/entertainment/2014-11-20-ko-voted-the-countrys-hottest-mc-for-2014/|date=2014-11-20|access-date=2024-09-17}}</ref>
=== 2016–2019: ''SR2'', ''PTY UnLTD'' === In July 2017, Ntokozo signed a partnership and distribution with [[Sony Entertainment]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Watch: K.O Signed With Sony for Only 1 Album|url=https://www.dailysun.co.za/News/Entertainment/watch-ko-signed-with-sony-for-just-1-album-20170726|first=Comfort |last=Tshabalala|date=26 July 2017|work=Daily Sun}}</ref> He released his single "No Feelings" on 21 July. Production was handled by Hylton Brooker and [[Gemini Major]].<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O to bare his soul on new comeback album |url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2017-07-21-ko-to-bare-his-soul-on-new-comeback-album/|date=27 July 2017|first=Kyle |last=Zeeman|publisher=Times LIVE}}</ref> The song was certified platinum, with sales of 25,000 copies.<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O Receive Plaques For 3 Songs On His Birthday|first=John |last=Jabulani|date=14 October 2021|publisher=Ubetoo |url=https://www.ubetoo.com/news/k-o-receive-plaques-for-3-songs-on-his-birthday/}}</ref> He released a single, "Don Dada", featuring [[Okmalumkoolkat]], on 14 October.<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O speaks of what makes a 'Don Dada, 'Pholas' with Pro|url=https://www.iol.co.za/amp/entertainment/music/k|publisher=Independent Online |first=Chrizelda|last= Kekana |access-date=31 October 2016}}</ref>
Ntokozo released his second album, ''Skhanda Republic 2'', in October 2017.<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O reveals Release Date + Album Cover for new album 'Skhanda Republic 2' {{!}} YoMzansi|date=2 October 2017|url=https://www.yomzansi.com/2017/10/02/k-o-reveals-release-date-album-cover-for-new-album-skhanda-republic-2/|publisher=YoMzansi|access-date=2 October 2017}}</ref> In March 2019, his single "Supa Dupa" was released as his third album's [[lead single]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Listen to K.O's new single, Supa Dupa {{!}} JustNje |date=8 March 2019|url=https://justnje.com/listen-to-k-os-new-single-supa-dupa/|publisher =JustNje|access-date =8 March 2019}}</ref> The song was certified 2× gold, with sales of 20,000 copies.<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O presented with three platinum plaques on his birthday|url=https://www.iol.co.za/amp/entertainment/music/local/ko-presented-with-three-platinum-plaques-on-his-birthday-c50fb26e-defb-4740-9372-c5aa9c07249a|date= 14 October 2021|work=Independent Online|first=Shingai |last=Darangwa}}</ref> "Say U Will" was released as the second single. He followed up with his third solo album, titled ''PTY UnLTD'', in 2019.<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O's New Album 'PTY UnLTD' is Here – OkayAfrica|url=https://www.okayafrica.com/kos-new-album-pty-unltd-is-here/116815|first=Sabelo|last =Mkhabela|publisher=OkayAfrica|access-date =27 September 2019}}</ref>
"Supa Dupa" was the only South African hip hop song to receive a gold plaque in 2019.
=== 2021–2023: ''Skhanda Republic 3'' === In September 2021, he announced his fourth album, ''Skhanda Republic 3'', and released "Playback" on October 15, 2021.<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O Gets Certified Platinum & Drops A New Single, "PLAYBACK" |url=https://www.zkhiphani.co.za/newmusicfridays-k-o-gets-certified-platinum-drops-a-new-single-playback/|publisher =Zkhiphani|first=Mandisa|last =Ntsinde|date=15 October 2021|access-date=15 October 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=K.O Drops New #PLAYBACK Song [Listen] {{!}} Hype Magazine|url= https://hypemagazine.co.za/2021/10/15/k-o-drops-new-playback-song-listen/| publisher=Hype Magazine| access-date=2022-05-17| date=2021-10-14}}</ref>
The second single, "Emoyeni", was released on March 25, 2022.<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O in high spirits with Emoyeni and upcoming album|first=Amanda |last=Maliba|url=https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/entertainment/2022-03-25-ko-in-high-spirits-with-emoyeni-and-upcoming-album/| publisher=SowetanLIVE| date=2022-03-25| access-date=2022-05-17| url-access= subscription}}</ref>
His single "SETE" featuring [[Young Stunna]] and [[Blxckie]] was released on 22 August 2022, along with a music video.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=Life|access-date=2024-09-17|url-access=subscription|url=https://www.news24.com/life/arts-and-entertainment/music/ko-releases-new-single-sete-20220822|first=Keitumetse |last=Maako|location=South Africa|language=en-ZA|title=K.O releases new single, Sete}}</ref> The song debuted at number one on Radio Monitor Charts and remained there for 19 consecutive weeks, became the longest-charting single.<ref name=live>{{cite web|title=K.O's hit song Sete tops streaming charts|url=https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/s-mag/culture/2023-02-02-kos-hit-song-sete-tops-streaming-charts/|access-date=2024-09-17|date=2023-02-02|first=Masego|last=Seemela|work=SowetanLIVE}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=K.O sets new record after 'Sete' lands top spot for the 12th consecutive week|url=https://www.iol.co.za/entertainment/music/local/ko-sets-new-record-after-sete-lands-top-spot-for-the-12th-consecutive-week-20c0bc02-ef7b-4550-84e0-cdd7d08282e2|date=2022-11-25|work=Independent Online|access-date=2024-09-17}}</ref> It also entered Local and International Radio Chart Top 10 at number 1.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://theofficialsacharts.co.za/charts/radio/local-international-radio-chart-top-10-week-25-2024/|title=Local and International Radio Chart Top 10|work=The Official South African Charts|access-date=2024-09-17}}</ref> In addition, "SETE" was number 1 on Official SA Charts list of SA's most streamed songs of 2022.<ref name=live/>
The song was certified Multi-Platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.risa.org.za/website/certification/reporting/|title=Certificate Reporting|work=The Recording of South Africa|access-date=2024-09-17}}</ref>
His fourth studio album, ''Skhanda Republic 3'', was released on 16 September 2022.<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O drops new album!|first=Phuti|last=Mathobela |work=SNL24|url=https://www.snl24.com/dailysun/celebs/ko-drops-new-album-20220916 |access-date=2024-09-17}}</ref> It features [[Sjava]], [[Msaki]], Zuma, Pabi Cooper and [[Sarkodie (rapper)|Sarkodie]].
Upon its release the album debuted at number one on Spotify Weekly Top Albums SA Chart and was certified platinum by RISA.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.musicinafrica.net/magazine/sa-kos-sr3-album-certified-platinum | title=SA: K.O's SR3 album certified platinum | date=3 July 2023 }}</ref>
===2024–present: Upcoming album === His single "Too Much" with Nasty C was released on 15 August 2024. It debuted at number 10 on Local Streaming Charts.<ref name=tosac/>
In August 2024, K.O announced his fifth studio album, ''I Think You Spoke Too Soon'', set to be released on October 18.<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O Announces Forthcoming Album 'I THINK YOU SPOKE TOO SOON'|work=Ground News|access-date=2024-09-17|date=2024-09-16|url= https://ground.news/article/ko-announces-forthcoming-album-i-think-you-spoke-too-soon-sa-hip-hop-mag}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=K.O is back with new music and new brand friends|url=https://www.iol.co.za/entertainment/music/local/ko-is-back-with-new-music-and-new-brand-friends-eb85dad8-8c29-4017-a324-5fab8a85a023|access-date=2024-09-17|work=Independent Online}}</ref> On October 16 2024, K.O took to [[Instagram]] to announce that he has decided to push his album to the first quarter of 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Banda |first=Clive |date=2024-10-16 |title=K.O Postpones "I Think You Spoke Too Soon" Album To 2025 |url=https://sahiphopmag.co.za/2024/10/k-o-postpones-i-think-you-spoke-too-soon-album-to-2025/#google_vignette |access-date=2025-05-24 |website=SA Hip Hop Mag |language=en-US}}</ref> As of May 2025, the album has not been released.
K.O's new album, titled "Phara City" is scheduled to be released on June 13th, 2025. <ref>{{Cite web |title=K.O Announces 'Phara City' Album Dropping In June |url=https://slikouronlife.co.za/blog/27896/ko-announces-phara-city-album-dropping-in-june |access-date=2025-05-26 |website=slikouronlife.co.za |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Lesiba |date=2025-04-23 |title=K.O announces new album, 'Phara City' |url=https://hypemagazine.co.za/2025/04/23/k-o-announces-new-album-phara-city/ |access-date=2025-05-26 |website=HYPE Magazine |language=en-GB}}</ref>
== Personal life ==
In May 2014, K.O lost a significant amount of weight. Rumours appeared on social media that K.O was [[HIV-positive people|HIV-positive]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.zkhiphani.co.za/k-o-officially-speaks-about-his-hiv-rumour/|title=K.O officially speaks about his HIV rumour|publisher=Zkhiphani|date=27 May 2014|access-date=7 September 2014}}</ref> His manager, Thabiso Khati, denied those rumours, stating that K.O had undergone a strict diet plan and was exercising regularly.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sowetanlive.co.za/entertainment/2014/05/27/not-hiv-positive-k.o-from-teargas|title='Not HIV positive': K.O from Teargas|publisher=Sowetan LIVE|date=27 May 2014|access-date=7 September 2014|archive-date=8 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140908133455/http://www.sowetanlive.co.za/entertainment/2014/05/27/not-hiv-positive-k.o-from-teargas|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.zalebs.com/post/kos-manager-slams-aids-rumours/|title=KO's manager slams AIDS rumours|publisher=Zalebs|author=Venge, Tinashe|date=22 May 2014|access-date=7 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140908134259/http://m.zalebs.com/post/kos-manager-slams-aids-rumours/|archive-date=8 September 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> K.O later released a statement regarding his health and posted a picture of his blood test results on his [[Twitter]] and [[Instagram]] pages showing that he was HIV negative.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.iol.co.za/tonight/news/local/sa-rapper-tests-hiv-rumour-mill-1.1694895|title=SA rapper tests HIV rumour mill|publisher=IOL|author=Radebe, Palesa|date=28 May 2014|access-date=7 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ndlovu |first=Zonke |date=2024-09-11 |title=K.O Anticipate New Song "Pasopa" Featuring Usimamane |url=https://zagisthub.com/celeb-gists/k-o-anticipate-new-song-pasopa-featuring-usimamane/ |access-date=2024-09-11 |website=ZagistHub |language=en-GB}}</ref>
== Awards and nominations == === [[Channel O Music Video Awards|Channel O Africa Music Video Awards]] === {{awards table}} !Ref |- |rowspan="5"|[[2014 Channel O Music Video Awards|2014]] |rowspan="5"|"[[Caracara (song)|Caracara]]" |Most Gifted Male |{{Nominated}} |<ref name="sundayworld">{{cite web|url=http://www.sundayworld.co.za/news/2014/09/05/cassper-nyovest-rules-the-channel-o-music-video-awards-nominees|title=Cassper Nyovest rules the Channel O Music Video Awards nominees|publisher=Sunday World|access-date=7 September 2014|date=5 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140906164926/http://www.sundayworld.co.za/news/2014/09/05/cassper-nyovest-rules-the-channel-o-music-video-awards-nominees|archive-date=6 September 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> |- |Most Gifted Duo/Group or Featuring Artist |{{Nominated}} |<ref name="sundayworld" /> |- |Most Gifted Hip Hop |{{Nominated}} |<ref name="drum">{{cite web|url=http://drum.co.za/entertainment/cassper-nyovest-leads-channel-o-awards-race/|title=Cassper Nyovest leads the Channel O awards race! |work=DRUM Magazine|access-date=7 September 2014}}</ref> |- |Most Gifted Southern Artist |{{Nominated}} |<ref name="drum" /> |- |Most Gifted Video of the Year |{{Nominated}} |<ref name="drum" /> |- {{end}}
=== South African Music Awards === {{Awards table}} |- |rowspan="3"|[[21st South African Music Awards|2015]] |rowspan="3"|"Skhanda Republic" |Record of The Year ("Caracara") |{{won}} |- |Rap Album of The Year |{{won}} |- |Best Collaboration ("Caracara" ft Kid X) |{{won}} |- |rowspan="3"|[[26th South African Music Awards|2020]] |rowspan="3"|"PtyUnltd" |Record of The Year ("Supa Dupa") |{{nominated}} |- |Rap Album of The Year |{{nominated}} |- |Best Collaboration ("Say You Will ft Nandi Madida") |{{won}} |- |[[27th South African Music Awards|2021]] |"Lucky Star" |Best Produced Music Video |{{nominated}}<ref>{{cite web|url= https://citizen.co.za/lifestyle/2493919/samas-27-nominations-are-out-and-its-male-dominated/|title= Samas 27: Nominations are out and men are leading the nods |work=The Citizen |date= 19 May 2021 |accessdate=20 May 2021}}</ref> |- |rowspan=7|2023<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O and Supermega lead #Sama29 nominations with six and seven nods|first=Constance |last=Gaanakgomo|date=2023-10-03|url= https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2023-10-03-ko-and-supermega-lead-sama29-nominations-with-five-and-six-nods/|work=TimesLIVE|access-date=2023-10-04}}</ref> |rowspan=2| ''SR3'' |Male Artist of the Year |{{nom}} |- | Album of the Year |{{nom}} |- |rowspan=4|"SETE" featuring Young Stunna, Blxckie | Best Collaboration |{{nom}} |- | Best Produced Music Video |{{nom}} |- |SAMRO Highest AirPlay Composer |{{won}} |- |CAPASSO Most Streamed Song |{{won}} |- | "SETE" featuring Young Stunna, Oxlade and [[Diamond Platnumz]] | Remix of the Year |{{nom}} {{end}}
=== [[South African Hip Hop Awards]] === {{Awards table}} !{{abbr|Ref.|References}} |- |rowspan=3|2022 |rowspan=3|<div style="text-align: center;">"[[Sete (song)|SETE]]"</div> |Best Video |{{won}} |rowspan=3|<ref>{{cite web|title=K.O wins big at SA Hip Hop Awards|work=SundayWorld|date=2022-08-12|access-date=2022-08-12|url= https://sundayworld.co.za/celebrity-news/entertainment/k-o-wins-big-at-sa-hip-hop-awards/}}</ref> |- |Best Collaboration |{{won}} |- |Song of the Year |{{won}} {{end}}
=== [[Metro FM Music Awards]] === {| class="wikitable" |+K.O leads the [[2023 Metro FM Music Awards]] nomination list with 7 nominations. !Year !Category !Recipient/Nominated work !Results !{{abbr|Ref.|References}} |- |rowspan="7"|[[17th Metro FM Music Awards|2023]] |[[Metro FM Music Award for Song of the Year|Song of the Year]] |rowspan="7"|<div style="text-align: center;">"[[Sete (song)|SETE]]"</div> |{{nom}} |rowspan="7"|<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 March 2023 |title=K.O tops nominees list for Metro FM Music Awards with the late AKA and Sjava not too far behind |url=https://www.iol.co.za/entertainment/music/local/ko-tops-nominees-list-for-metro-fm-music-awards-with-the-late-aka-and-sjava-not-too-far-behind-e4b7266a-157e-48a0-8453-1b083853f3cc |access-date=31 March 2023 |website=www.iol.co.za}}</ref> |- |Artist of the Year |{{nominated}} |- |Best Hip Hop Artist |{{nominated}} |- |Best Male Artist |{{nominated}} |- |Best Music Video |{{nominated}} |- |Best Collaboration Song |{{nominated}} |- |Best Viral Challenge |{{nom}} <ref>{{Cite web |title=All the winners from The Metro FM Music Awards 2023 |url=https://dstv-fe-channelo-prod.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/channelo/en-za/news/all-the-winners-from-the-metro-fm-music-awards-2023 |access-date=2023-05-26 |website=All the winners from The Metro FM Music Awards 2023 |language=en }}{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> |- |}
== Discography ==
=== Studio albums === * ''[[Skhanda Republic (album)|Skhanda Republic]]'' (2014) * ''Skhanda Republic 2'' (2017) * ''PTY UnLTD'' (2019) * ''[[SR3 (album)|Skhanda Republic 3]]'' (2022) * Phara City (2025)<ref>{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2025-04-29 |title=K.O and Young Stunna Unite for Highly Anticipated Track 'Pharadise' |url=https://zagisthub.com/music/k-o-and-young-stunna-unite-for-highly-anticipated-track-pharadise/ |access-date=2025-04-29 |language=en-US}}</ref>
=== Extended plays === *''2Piece'' (2018)
=== As member of Teargas === * Teargas Mixtape (2005) ''K'shubile K'bovu'' (2006) * ''Wafa Wafa'' (2008) * ''Dark or Blue'' (2009) * ''Num8er Num8er'' (2012)
==Singles== ===As lead artist=== {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;" |+ List of singles as lead artist, with selected chart positions and certifications, showing year released and album name |- ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Title ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Year ! scope="col" colspan="1"| Peak chart positions ! scope="col" rowspan="2" style="width:12em;"| [[List of music recording certifications|Certifications]] ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Album |- ! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:100%;"|[[Entertainment Monitoring Africa|ZA]] |- !scope="row|"[[Caracara (song)|Caracara]]" (featuring KiD X) |2014 |6 | |[[Skhanda Republic]] |- !scope="row|"Say You Will" (featuring [[Nandi Madida]]) | rowspan="2" |2019 | | |rowspan="2"|''PTY Unltd'' |- !scope=row|"Supa Dupa" |1 | |- ! scope="row"|"Lucky Star" | rowspan="3"|2021 | | |{{non-album singles}} |- !scope="row" |"K:HOVA" | | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row"| "Playback" | | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" | "Emoyeni" | rowspan="4"| 2022 | | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" | "SKHANDAVILLE (Freestyle)" | | |[[SR3 (album)|SR3]] |- ! scope="row" |"Omega (Freestyle)" | | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" | "[[Sete (2022 song)|SETE]]" (featuring Young Stunna and Blxckie) | 1<ref>{{cite web|title=Entertainment Monitoring Africa :: Local Chart: Juice back|url=http://www.sa-ema.com/local-chart/?week=2022-08-19|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220915194103/http://www.sa-ema.com/local-chart/?week=2022-08-19|url-status=usurped|archive-date=15 September 2022|website=Entertainment Monitoring Africa|accessdate=15 September 2022}}</ref> | RISA: 3× Platinum<ref>{{cite web|url=https://slikouronlife.co.za/blog/23008/at-mrcashtimes-sete-single-with-at-blxckie-and-at-youngstunna-za-reaches-double-platinum|title=MrCashtime's 'Sete' Single With Blxckie And Young Stunna Reaches Double Platinum |first=Ofentse|last=Phukubye |work=Slikour On Life|access-date=2022-09-27|date=2022-09-27}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Pongwana |first=Nonhlanhla |date=2021-10-15 |title=K.O receives 3 platinum plaques, making it the ultimate birthday gift |url=https://briefly.co.za/entertainment/music/111973-ko-receives-3-platinum-plaques-sony-music-making-ultimate-birthday-gift/ |access-date=2022-11-26 |website=Briefly |language=en}}</ref> | ''[[SR3 (album)|SR3]]'' |- ! scope="row" | "Rockabye" (featuring Toss) |2023 | | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" | "Y.O.U." | rowspan=7|2024 | — | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" |"Let Me Cook" (featuring Maglera Doe Boy) | — | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" |"Electra" | — | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" |"On The Way (From "Losing Lerato 2")" | — | |{{non-album single}} |- !scope="row"|"Too Much" (K.O, Nasty C) |10<ref name=tosac>{{cite web|title=TOP CHARTS THIS WEEK : Local Streaming|url=https://theofficialsacharts.co.za|access-date=2024-08-30|work=The South African Official Charts}}</ref> | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" |"We are K.O" |— | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" |"King Size" (K.O, AKA) |— | |{{non-album single}} |- | colspan="7" style="font-size:90%" | "—" denotes a recording that did not chart or was not released in that territory. |}
===As featured artist=== {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center" |+ List of singles as featured artist, with selected chart positions and certifications, showing year released and album name |- ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Title ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Year ! scope="col" colspan="1"| Peak chart positions ! scope="col" rowspan="2" style="width:12em;"| [[List of music recording certifications|Certifications]] ! scope="col" rowspan="2"| Album |- ! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:100%;"|[[Entertainment Monitoring Africa|ZA]]<br /> |- ! scope="row" |"God's Will" (DJ Vigilante featuring AKA & K.O) |2013 | — | | |- ! scope="row" |"Nobody But Me" (Vanesse Mdee featuring K.O) |rowspan=2|2015 | — | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" |"Kabelai (Pucado featuring Wizkid, K.O) |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"Money" (Ryki feat. K.O) |rowspan=2|2018 |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"iWalk Ye Phara" ([[DJ Maphorisa]], DJ Raybel featuring [[Moonchild Sanelly]], K.O, Zulu Mkhathini) |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"Pasop! (DJ Vigilante feat. K.O, Maggz, Moozlie, MA-E, Kid X) |rowspan=2|2019 |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"Bang Out" (DJ Vigilante featuring AKA, K.O, Nasty C) | — | |{{non-album single}} |- ! scope="row" |"Killa Combo" (Skhanda World featuring K.O, Tellaman, Zingah, Mariechan, Loki.) |rowspan=4|2020 |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"Section (Loki. featuring K.O) |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"Navigator" (MA-E featuring K.O) |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"Cold Summer" (Skhandaworld featuring K.O, Loki., Roiii, Kwesta) |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"Mshimane 2.0" (Stini Le Thwenny featuring K.O, Major League Djz, Khuli Chana) |rowspan=2|2021 |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"Asambe" (DJ Mr X featuring K.O, Cassper Nyovest, Loki., Roiii) |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"Dear My Love" (Big Zulu featuring K.O, Siya Ntuli & Xowla) |2022 |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"Isitha" (Skhandaworld featuring [[Aymos]], K.O, Loki., Roiii) |2023 |— | | |- ! scope="row" |"Namhlanje" (Xowla featuring K.O) |2024 |— | |{{non-album single}} |- | colspan="8" style="font-size:90%"| "—" denotes a recording that did not chart or was not released in that territory. |}
== References == {{Reflist}}
{{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:K.O}} [[Category:Living people]] [[Category:South African rappers]] [[Category:South African record producers]] [[Category:1980 births]] [[Category:English-language South African singers]] [[Category:South Africa]] [[Category:Mbombela]]