Spotify and Sony to mark 10 years of Kwesta’s DaKAR II

At the time of its debut, DaKAR II was noted for its ambitious scale and distinctly South African storytelling. Ten years on, the album continues to attract significant streaming activity. According to Spotify data, listening figures in 2025 have increased sharply compared with its release year, making 2025 the album’s strongest annual streaming year to date. The project also reached a new daily streaming peak in November 2025.

Reflecting on the making of the album in comments shared with Spotify, Kwesta described its success as the result of collaboration and timing rather than chance. “We were blessed to be at the same time, together, making that thing,” he said, crediting those involved in shaping and protecting the album’s message and sound.

Kwesta acknowledged that releasing a double album carried risk. “Making it a double album was a risk on its own,” he said, explaining that the format allowed him to present different dimensions of his artistry, from “hardcore rapping” to a “soft, vulnerable” side.

While the album has found audiences abroad, South Africa remains its largest market on Spotify, with Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and Cape Town leading in local streams. Internationally, the United States and the United Kingdom rank among the strongest territories outside South Africa.

For the rapper, the album’s reception at home carries particular significance. “My biggest pride about this album is not necessarily how Africa or the world took it, but how Katlehong took it… the reaction of Katlehong to it is my most prized possession,” he said.

Tracks including Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe featuring Thabsie, Ngud’ featuring Cassper Nyovest, and Nomayini remain among the most streamed songs from the project. Spotify data shows that listeners aged 18 to 24 account for the largest share of streams, with thousands discovering the album over the past year.

Speaking on longevity, Kwesta attributed the album’s continued relevance to authenticity. “Don’t just play where you’re allowed to play. Play where your heart tells you,” he said. “If you keep who you are, by the time you look up, you’re gonna be where you were trying to go regardless.”

The anniversary event will reflect on the album’s legacy as it continues to attract new audiences a decade after its release.