K.Keed (born Mihlali Koyana) is a South African hip hop artist and rapper. She began releasing music in 2019 and has since become a prominent figure in the South African rap scene, known for her aggressive delivery and collaborations with major local artists. Her notable releases include the 2022 EP ALTER-EGO and the 2025 album Bite the Bullet.[1]
Mihlali Koyana, was born and raised in the township of Gugulethu, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa. From a young age, she was drawn to poetry and began writing her own rhymes while still at school, inspired by the vibrant local hip-hop scene in Cape Town’s townships.[1]
Career
2019–2021: Breakthrough with “Similes” and Religion
K.Keed made her official recording debut in early 2019 with the single “Similes,” which garnered airplay on community radio and introduced her raw, unapologetic style to South African listeners.[1] On 15 December 2020, she released her first full project, the seven-track album Religion via 1529884 Records DK, showcasing her versatility across trap and lyrical Hip-Hop.[2]
2022: ALTER-EGO EP
On 26 February 2022, K.Keed dropped ALTER-EGO, an eight-track EP featuring high-profile collaborations with Blxckie, Dee Koala and Indigo Stella. Standout singles “Spazz” (with Dee Koala) and “Cid” cemented her reputation as a rising star of the Mother City.[3]
2023-present: Mainstream ascendancy
In November 2023, she teamed up with Orish for the single “uMgaranto,” which received significant streaming traction.[4]
On 28 February 2025, she released Bite the Bullet, a single featuring A-Reece, Priddy Ugly and Shekhinah, broadening her sonic palette.[5][6]
In 2024, she released Bite the Bullet, featuring artists like A-Recce, Priddy Ugly and Shekhinah.[7] By December 2024, K.Keed had become the most-streamed female Hip-Hop artist in South Africa—a landmark achievement for a Cape Town-born rapper.[8]
In March 2025, Apple Music’s Rap Life Africa show, hosted by Ebro Darden and Nandi Madida, spotlighted K.Keed as its featured artist, praising her bold lyricism and growing influence on the continent’s Hip-Hop landscape.[5]
Artistry and influences
K.Keed blends township slang, trap-driven production and confessional lyricism. Critics note her “unorthodox flow” and ability to switch between hard-hitting bars and melodic hooks. She has cited the DIY ethic of Cape Town’s underground scene and international artists like Nicki Minaj and Cardi B as inspirations for her fearless stage persona.[9][10]
Awards and recognition
She has reached significant milestones, such as performing at The Boiler Room: Contemporary Scenes x Wear Broke[11] and being featured in Redbat's Young & Dope campaign.[12] By the end of 2024, she was the most streamed female Hip-Hop artist in South Africa.[13]
In March 2025, K.Keed was featured as an artist for Apple Music's Rap Life Africa initiative, recognising her bold artistry and impactful role in South Africa's thriving Hip-Hop scene.[14]
Record labels
She is currently signed to Gallo Record Company, Entertainment Lords, 1529884 Records DK and K.Keed Records.
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