If you are a fan of South African rap music, you must have heard of AKA, the legendary rapper who passed away in 2023.
AKA was one of the most successful and influential rappers in the country, with a net worth of $15 million.
How did he achieve such a fortune from his music career?
What were his sources of income, his assets, and his expenses?
In this article, we will explore the life and wealth of AKA, the rapper who left a legacy in the rap industry.
Who is AKA?
AKA, a renowned South African artist, born 28 Jan 1988 in Cape Town, was tragically shot and killed on 10 Feb 2023 in Durban, in a suspected murder case.
Real name: Kiernan Jarryd Forbes. Aliases: Supa Mega, King Forbes.
Started in 2002 with hip hop group Entity. Launched solo career, debut album “Altar Ego” in 2011.
Notable hits:
- “Victory Lap”
- “All I Know”
- “Fela in Versace”
- “The World Is Yours”
- “Jika”.
Collaborated with Burna Boy, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Rick Ross, Kanye West. Won numerous awards.
Fathered daughter Kairo Olwethu Forbes with ex-girlfriend DJ Zinhle.
Had relationships with Bonang Matheba, Anele Tembe (who tragically passed in 2021), and Nadia Nakai, his girlfriend at the time of his death.
Influential figure in South African and African music, also a savvy businessman.
Launched Beam World app, Cruz Watermelon Vodka brand. Estimated net worth: $12 million.
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AKA’s Music Career
AKA, whose real name was Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, was born on January 28, 1988, in Cape Town, South Africa.
He started his music career as a member of a group called Entity, which disbanded in 2006.
AKA then went solo and released his debut album, Altar Ego, in 2011.
The album was a hit, with singles like “Victory Lap” and “I Want It All” topping the charts.
The album featured collaborations with artists like Burna Boy, Da L.E.S, and JR.
Some of the popular songs from the album were “Congratulate”, “Run Jozi”, and “All Eyes on Me”.
AKA’s third album, Touch My Blood, was released in 2018 and was also certified platinum by RISA.
The album had singles like “Fela in Versace”, “Beyonce”, and “Jika”.
He was also nominated for the BET Awards and the MTV Europe Music Awards.
AKA’s Other Sources of Income
Besides music, AKA had other sources of income that contributed to his net worth.
He had endorsement deals with brands like Reebok, Cruz Vodka, Huawei, and Betway.
He also had his own app called Beam Digital, which allowed fans to stream his music and access exclusive content.
AKA also ventured into other businesses, such as owning a restaurant called Cuba BLK in Durban, and launching his own TV channel called AKA TV on Vodacom’s Video Play platform.
He also had plans to launch his own sneaker line called SneAKA.
AKA’s Assets and Expenses
AKA lived a lavish lifestyle and spent his money on expensive cars, houses, and jewelry.
He owned a:
- BMW i8 worth R2 million,
- Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon worth R3 million,
- Range Rover Sport worth R2.5 million
AKA also loved to travel and perform around the world.
He visited countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Angola, and more.
AKA also supported various causes and charities.
He donated R100 000 to the Wits SRC Humanitarian Fund in 2016 to help students with financial difficulties.
He also participated in the #FeesMustFall campaign to protest against high tuition fees in South African universities.
AKA also donated R20 000 to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital in 2017.
READ ALSO: Riky Rick Net Worth: The Rise and Fall of a South African Rap Star
Conclusion
AKA was a renowned South African rap icon, amassing a $15M net worth.
He lived lavishly, cherishing his passions. A philanthropist, he backed diverse causes.
Tragically, he passed at 35 due to a gunshot.
He leaves behind daughter Kairo Forbes and girlfriend Nelli Tembe. AKA, an eternal rap legend.
