AKA has been missing for more than two years. Having through what he describes as the most difficult period of his life, which included the suicide of his fiancée Anele Tembe, the 34-year-old rapper’s “Supa Mega” persona has often felt like a distant memory.
AKA is currently exhibiting signs of life, having previously hinted at a victorious return via his upcoming album “Mass Country.”
The release of “Lemons (Lemonade),” his long-awaited duet with Nasty C, kicked off the promotion for the album three weeks ago.
“Lemons,” a song about overcoming adversity and regaining strength set to the languid and seductive melody of its sparkling keys, is already poised to become his most successful single since “Fela In Versace” in 2018.
In many respects, the new single marks his return to the pinnacle of his musical abilities with a tried-and-true formula: a slick dance sample, a slowed tempo, and the silly and humorous phrases that have come to define him since “Levels.”
AKA With Nasty C. Tshirelletso Mothobi (@blvck rebel) is pictured here.
AKA’s lyrics are not the focus of this narrative; they have not been for some time. His statements about zipping up his Off-White to his neck and other such statements are merely catchphrases intended to amuse and delight.
As he explains to me, this is the logical next step in his musical development. He is no longer attempting to out-rap others; he is simply having fun.
“From my perspective, it is a trip of one’s own character and existence. But also acoustically, as you evolve as a person and as your life changes, your sonics will surely change as well.
“I mean, I released my first song with Entity in 2005, and it’s now 2022, so I’ve been making music for close to 20 years, 20 years, man.”
AKA claims he has made a concerted effort to inject more of himself into his songs over time.
“When I say be more myself, I mean be more vulnerable, attempt less to impress people, and I believe I’m producing better music as a result of trying less and not as hard.
“At first, when I was striving so hard, I desperately needed your approval. Now that I feel I am the sensei, you folks will like what I provide you.”
The single “Lemons” was released alongside a music video directed by Nate Thomas. Although the music is entertaining on its own, the “Jika Majika”-themed graphics elevate the entertainment value to a new level.
Picture: Tshirelletso Mothobi (@blvck rebel) with his alias.
AKA praises Costa Titch with assisting him to recover his footing during the previous two years and adversities he has endured.
“Shout out to Costa Titch since he was also essential in my being able to return to the public eye and resume making music.
Come to the studio, get out of the house, and let’s work, he insisted. Without that, this wouldn’t exist. Therefore, everything is a tale.
“When I decided to release this, I felt that we had put in too much effort… I exclaimed, “There is no way we can lose this.” Excellent new sound from Nasty C and AKA, fantastic lead single.”
I ask him why he believes the song is so successful, given that it has been certified gold and is at the top of multiple charts.
“I believe it will succeed because everyone enjoys a good comeback story. First time I’ve ever felt like an underdog. I’m liking it.”