Kingsley Kalinde

Kingsley Kalinde, mononymously known as Kingsley, is a recording artist, producer, songwriter and record engineer based in Pretoria, South Africa and representing the latest breed of standout Gen Z artists on the African continent.

Kingsley started out as a producer at the age of 11 when he was introduced to FL Studio by his older brother. He gained quick interest in beat making and lyricism. He cites early influences such as Madonna, Michael Jackson, Kanye West & Lil Wayne. Although his love for Hip-Hop stems from its early impact on him, he blends it with the RnB, Soul and Pop influences gained from the music played in his household by his parents from a tender age, and he has found a way to express himself through a blend of sounds that work for him. 

Kingsley started learning the rap artform at the age of 12 when he began high school. It is then, when he saw an opportunity to find himself through the art by performing for the youthful audiences presented to him at school concerts and rap events. At 16, he founded a rap group along with his two school friends, which they called D.S.M.G. It is at this point that he started his journey as a recording artist. 

His solo career began when he enrolled at the University of Pretoria, just as the current Pitori Hip-Hop and Amapiano scenes were emerging. He founded Kountry Klub Records around this time, as an entity and platform used to amplify his talent and work. His work includes collaborations with talent such as platinum selling artists LaCabra, Sastii (Qwellers), the platinum selling artist, Flow Jones Jr, SAMA nominated producer Dooushii, award-winning songwriter, Inno and 2-time Grammy nominated Just6 group member Usmokolo.