Early Life and Education
Senzo Mfundo Vilakazi was born on August 11, 1988, in Katlehong, a township in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng. Raised in a modest household, Kwesta developed an early interest in poetry and music during his school years. He attended Phumlani Secondary School and later Alafang Secondary School in Katlehong. At the age of 16, he dropped out of school to pursue a music career, convincing his mother to support his decision. He began his professional journey by joining Buttabing Entertainment, marking the start of his music career.
Career Trajectory
Formation of The Ghetto Fellaz
In 2003, Kwesta and his friends formed a rap group initially named The Ghetto Fellaz, which later became known as The Juvenylz. The group disbanded after two years, but this experience laid the foundation for Kwesta’s solo career. He participated in various competitions, including YFM’s Rap Activity Jam and ETV’s Shiz Niz Freestyle Kings Special, gaining recognition in the South African hip-hop scene.
Breakthrough with Special ReKwest (2010)
Kwesta’s debut studio album, Special ReKwest, was released in September 2010 under Buttabing Entertainment. The album featured singles like “Babhemi,” “Flash It,” and “Stomp,” which received significant airplay. “Stomp” was notably featured in the soundtrack of the American film Death Race 3. The album earned Kwesta nominations at the South African Music Awards (SAMA) for Best Newcomer and Best Rap Album.
DaKAR and DaKAR II (2013–2016)
In 2013, Kwesta released his second studio album, DaKAR (Da King of Afrikan Rap), which debuted at number three on the South African iTunes Hip-Hop/Rap chart. The album solidified his position in the South African music industry. His third album, DaKAR II, released in 2016, became the best-selling South African hip-hop album of all time, achieving 7× Platinum certification by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA). The album featured hit singles like “Ngud'” (featuring Cassper Nyovest), “Spirit” (featuring Wale), and “Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe” (featuring Thabsie). “Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe” was certified 11× Diamond and 119× Platinum by RiSA.
g.o.d guluva and Speak N Vrostaan (2021–2022)
In 2021, Kwesta released his fourth studio album, g.o.d guluva (Ghost of DaKAR), which debuted at number three on the South African Top 100 Albums chart. The album featured collaborations with artists like Thabsie, Focalistic, TLT, Yanga Chief, and K.O. In December 2022, he released a collaborative project with Kabza De Small titled Speak N Vrostaan. The project showcased his versatility and continued relevance in the South African music scene.
Musical Style and Influences
Kwesta’s music is characterized by a fusion of hip-hop, Kwaito, trap, and Gqom elements. His lyrical content often reflects themes of resilience, authenticity, and social consciousness, resonating with a wide audience. He has cited influences from both local South African artists and international hip-hop figures, blending these inspirations to create a unique sound that bridges cultural and musical divides.
Personal Life
Kwesta is married to Yolanda Vilakazi, his longtime partner. The couple has a daughter named Khai, born on October 13, 2015. They celebrated their marriage in a private ceremony attended by close family and friends. Despite his public persona, Kwesta maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing on his family and music career.
Awards and Recognition
Kwesta’s contributions to the music industry have been recognized through numerous awards and accolades, including
- South African Music Awards (SAMA):
- Best Male Artist of the Year (2017)
- Best Rap Album (2017)
- Album of the Year (2017)
- Highest Airplay of the Year (2017)
- Best Collaboration (2017)
- SA Hip Hop Awards:
- Song of the Year (2018)
- Best Collabo (2018)
- Best Video (2018)
- Best Digital Sales (2018)
