Popular rapper Nadia Nakai ditches hip hop and embraces Afrocentric sound as she signs with new Pan African label Ziiki Media
By Edward Tsumele, Editor, CITYLIFE/ARTS
Celebrated hip hop artist Nadia Nakai is ready to grow her musical repertoire and in the process, is putting her signature rap music genre on the side, in favour of a more mature, ancestral spiritual sound that connects her to her new identity.
The rapper announced this new, almost radical change from hip hop to Afrocentric music at a venue in Sandton on Thursday, November 23, 2023, as she joined a new Pan African music label Ziiki Media.
The artist told the media that this change was as a result of her recent spiritual journey that resulted from recent personal events in her life, amongst which was the tragic loss of her famous boyfriend, the slain hip hop artist Kienon Forbes, popular known as AKA. The rapper was shot dead by as yet to be apprehended gunman outside a popular Durban restaurant last year.
“I underwent difficulties in my life, particularly the loss of someone I was close to, and that event made me to have a conversation with God. I became distant from God first, and was angry. But now I am moving toward God again, and have become spiritual. The music I am creating now is spiritual, ancestral African sound. This is bye to hip hop in favour of the new me that I am embracing with the project that I am working on after joining Ziiki Media. This is the new Nadai Nakai.
“However I am going to release an Epic soon, as well as a tribute song for Kienon. I am also going to include some of the works we have created together when he was still alive, before he transitioned into the other realm. The song which will be in my album will include very personal voice messages he sent me while we were together,” she said.
“Ziiki Media, Africa’s foremost entertainment provider, continues to set the standard in the continent’s entertainment industry with its unwavering commitment to creativity, quality, and meaningful impact. Established as a trailblazer in the world of entertainment, Ziiki Media is dedicated to creating content that not only entertains but also fosters positive change in society.
In this exciting development, Ziiki Media is thrilled to announce the addition of Nadia Nakai, a renowned South African female rapper, to its roster of talented artists. Nadia Nakai’s exceptional talent, unmatched energy, and dedication to her craft make her a perfect fit for Ziiki Media.
“We are delighted to welcome Nadia Nakai to the Ziiki Media family,” said Ria, the Executive Director at Ziiki Media. “Her talent and passion for music align perfectly with our commitment to creativity and quality. We believe that her unique voice and perspective will contribute significantly to our mission of driving positive change through entertainment.”
Nadia Nakai, a celebrated female rapper for her captivating performances, expressed her enthusiasm about joining Ziiki Media. “I am thrilled to be a part of the Ziiki Media family,” she said. “I look forward to collaborating with the talented individuals here and creating music and content for my fans.”
With a vision to elevate African talent and narratives to a global stage, Ziiki Media has consistently pushed boundaries, producing high-quality artists that resonate with audiences far and wide. Through innovative storytelling and groundbreaking productions, the company has captured the hearts of millions.
With Nadia Nakai on board, the future looks even more promising for this dynamic entertainment powerhouse,”said the label in a statement following the announcement event at La Parada Restaurant in Parkmore, Sandton.