South African hip hop pioneer and Skhanda World frontman K.O has once again stirred the streets—this time not with a beat, but with a heartfelt open letter that sets the tone for what he calls his most personal project yet.
The letter, released to his multi-millions of followers via his social media platforms, announces the upcoming drop of his latest studio album ‘Phara City‘, arriving June 13, 2025.
“An open letter in musical form to my people, my heart, my South Africa—this one’s for us,” K.O wrote. “Phara City is a mirror held up to our lives, reflecting the raw, beautiful chaos we navigate every day.”
After nearly two decades of redefining South African hip hop—from his early days in Teargas to solo dominance with chart-topping hits like ‘Caracara‘, ‘Supa Dupa‘, and the platinum-selling ‘Sete‘—Ntokozo “K.O” Mdluli has crafted a legacy of sonic innovation and cultural commentary.
Now, he’s turning the mic inward and outward at once, inviting the nation into a reflective, soul-driven journey.
Phara City: A soundtrack for the soul of SA
Describing the new album as “a time capsule,” K.O says ‘Phara City‘ is rooted in four emotional cornerstones: pain, love, joy, and ambition. “After months of doubt, grind, and belief in the vision, I’m ready to share this with you,” he wrote. “Thank you for rocking with me and for being part of the Ntokozo K.O Mdluli journey for 19 years.”
The announcement follows a landmark moment in the rapper’s career—his 10-year solo anniversary celebration in late 2024, which featured a packed lineup of industry heavyweights like Big Zulu, Cassper Nyovest, DJ Maphorisa, and Nasty C.
The Skhanda Republic 10-Year Anniversary event was a powerful reminder of his enduring impact on the scene and the genre’s evolution over the last decade.
New single this Friday
Before the full album lands in June, fans can expect a brand-new single this Friday, along with the official pre-save link for ‘Phara City‘. While full details on the single remain under wraps, if K.O’s track record is any indication, it will carry his signature blend of street wisdom, lyrical finesse, and undeniable groove.
The voice of a generation
What makes Phara City especially significant is its intent—it’s not just about beats or bars. It’s about telling our story. From the townships to the stages, from struggle to success, K.O is channeling the voice of a generation that has risen, rebuilt, and redefined itself.
As he puts it: “We’re a nation of hustlers, dreamers, fighters—laughing through the pain, loving through the struggle, uniting through it all.”
Stay tuned, South Africa. The countdown to ‘Phara City‘ has begun!
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