Apple Music’s Rap Life Radio, presented by Global Editorial Head of Hip-Hop and R&B, Ebro Darden, will feature enigmatic South African rap songstress Dee Koala this month, as Ebro and Africa Now Radio host, Nandi Madida, chat about her highly anticipated sophomore album, iiNtsikelelo.
Meaning “blessings” in isiXhosa, iiNtsikelelo is a raw, deeply personal journey through grief, growth and spiritual awakening, as Koala reimagines pain as purpose, and rediscovers her identity as an artist.
Speaking on one of the album’s lead singles, “Nombolo”, Koala tells Apple Music, “It tells a story about growing up in the hood, and seeing how people hustle, how they make money.”
“That is what motivated me to never give up, to always keep trying,” she adds. “The verses speak about the different ways that the hood keeps you going, and I’ll always be thankful for what Khayelitsha has given me.”
Across eighteen tracks, Dee Koala continues to chart her journey to the top, with the same brand of raw storytelling that made her debut album such a success, never losing sight of her unwavering connection to her roots.
Alongside Dee Koala, Rap Life Radio will also spotlight Ghanaian rapper O’Kenneth, known as the pioneer of Asakaa, Ghana’s raw, local evolution of drill music — with with his new single “YIMAYƐ”.
Also featured is M. I. Abaga with his latest offering “Mr. Fantastic” — a blazing dancehall-rap hybrid.
Spotlight On
Hailing from the streets of Khayelitsha, Dee Koala cemented her status as a rap heavyweight after winning Best Female Artist at the 2020 SA Hip-Hop Awards, and after a five-year hiatus, she’s finally back to reclaim her crown.
First To Know
With sharp lyricism and impressive emotional depth, iiNtsikelelo features twelve powerful collaborations, including contributions from Maglera Doe Boy, YoungstaCPT, K.Keed, Kila G and more, all driven by Koala’s singular, unifying vision.
Press Play
Rap Life Africa serves as a companion to Apple Music’s flagship Hip-Hop playlist, Rap Life.
