25-year-old Nhlanhla keliko makes music in the Afro-pop genre and is set to release an EP soon.
Popularly known to his fans as 16 Offence, Keliko bases his music on his life as a musician and an individual who is part of the youth. His music further aims to educate and tell stories to the youth.
Keliko cited that he released an EP called Iksasa lam which consists of four songs that provide calmness and a sense of direction to my fans.
He said his EP reflects his life journey and determination to succeed.
“Afro-pop and Afro-soul music inspired my music and gave me the courage to work on my craft. It motivated the creation of my EP. And the EP gives insight into my future, my goals, and what I stand for. This is why I titled it ‘Iksasa lam’.
“The songs in my EP paint a clear picture of my aspirations in life,” added Keliko.
The musician draws inspiration from the South African artist, Emtee. He describes Emtee as a legend in the music industry who continuously without fail provides the youth with basic steps to succeed.
“His music reflects his life, his journey, and his achievements. He provides strength through his words and verses.
“Emtee is an icon in the industry, most young people look up to him as I do,” Keliko said.
He said music allows him to express himself freely, it provides comfort to him as he is not a muchly vocal individual.
“I express myself through music. My verses reflect every phase of my life. They aim to educate, inform, and give guidance through my experiences and hardships,” said Keliko.
Keliko furthermore mentioned that he is ready to take over the world of Afro-pop and Afro-soul with his EP.
Keliko said each song on his EP has a meaning and each song proves direction towards a specified path.
“The first song is called Amen; it is a song that provides prayer and healing. The second song is titled Impumelelo – Its Strength and Prosperity. Amazulu is a song dedicated to success and achieving big things. The last song is dedicated to friendship titled Umnganiwakho,” clarified Keliko.
Keliko said he is happy with the positive feedback that he has been getting from his fans.
By Simphiwe Nkosi
