By Mediamec 
South African hip hop legend K.O joined Nandi Madida on Africa Now Radio to discuss his latest 14-track album, Phara City, released Friday, June 13. More than just a musical project, Phara City is K.O’s bold reflection on South Africa’s current socio-political landscape.
“I don’t just want to be remembered as a dope rapper,” K.O said. “I want to be intentional, especially in the climate we are subjected to as a country.”
K.O openly acknowledged the socio-economic challenges facing South Africans today, emphasizing that he refuses to “shy away” from the country’s realities. His aim is to create music that resonates with ordinary citizens while prompting important conversations.
Central to the album is the concept of the “Phara” — slang for a streetwise individual or outcast.
“Phara is basically a thug… but I use the term loosely,” K.O explained. “It describes a background that is both positive and negative. They are outcasts, ostracized by society — but not just that. In today’s South Africa, a Phara can be anyone trying to make it from the margins.”
On his new single “Supernova,” featuring Cassper Nyovest, K.O samples the iconic Lebo Mathosa hit “I Love Music.” He described the sample clearance as a meticulous and deeply respectful process.
“Sampling a song like that is near blasphemous. But we went out of our way to mirror the quality of the original and to do it justice.”
Discussing the album’s collaborations, K.O highlighted the intentionality behind every partnership.
“It takes patience. But when you know who complements your vision, you pursue them. People don’t see the months of behind-the-scenes work that goes into these songs.”
He emphasized his philosophy of putting the song first — even over his own contributions.
“I could do everything myself, but what if someone else could bring a certain emotion that takes the song further? That’s why I bring others on board.”
Reflecting on his earlier success with Teargas, K.O acknowledged the group’s lasting influence on today’s artists like Big Zulu and Blaq Diamond.
“They speak so highly of Teargas. When I hear their music, I can tell the influence — but they’re doing it in their own way. Being on songs with them feels like a full-circle moment.”
With Phara City, K.O not only cements his musical evolution but also sparks a deeper national dialogue — one track at a time.