The sudden and tragic death of Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes, a beloved South African rapper, has left the music industry and the world in a state of grief. However, in the midst of this pain, the Forbes family has been moved by the outpouring of love and support they have received from South Africa and beyond. In keeping with the rapper's legacy, they have decided to release AKA's new album, "Mass Country," on February 24, 2023, and have announced the premiere of a new single, "Company," featuring Nigerian record producer Kiddominant, on February 17, 2023.
Before his passing, AKA had been teasing his fans with snippets of his new album, and "Mass Country" had become one of the most anticipated albums of the century. The rapper had worked tirelessly on this project, with the goal of creating a masterpiece that would live on for eternity. Despite his untimely death, his team, family, and friends have all come together to ensure that AKA's vision for his album is brought to fruition.
Raphael Benza of Vth Season, AKA's management team, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with the rapper and to bring his music to the world, saying, "The energy and the expectations from the Megacy fueled him to make a masterpiece. We are delighted, even at our saddest moment, to share the music he left behind for us for eternity…Long Live, Supa Mega, Live Long!! The world will never forget AKA and that's a promise."
Nivo, Manager & Co-Executive Producer of "Mass Country," shared how the team had spent a lot of time working closely with AKA, mapping out the album's rollout and creating all the content under his direction. AKA had put his heart and soul into the project, and the team was blessed to have the opportunity to work with him and bring his vision to life.
The Forbes family has given their blessings and support to AKA's team at The Vth Season, The T Effect, and Sony Music Entertainment Africa, who will be taking control of the album's rollout. They are all determined to celebrate the rapper's gift of music, and bring his work to the world in a way that honours his memory.
The managing director of Sony Music Entertainment Africa expressed his deepest sympathies and condolences to AKA's family, friends, and the Megacy (his fanbase), saying, "Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones as we all traverse this difficult time of mourning the loss of a dearly beloved and respected artist. Our hearts are broken."
The world will never forget AKA and his contribution to the music industry. His legacy will live on through his music, and his fans will continue to celebrate his life and his work for years to come.