#LANews Radar #21 Featuring Kingsley, Chitose Abe, Ayox And More

This week, dive into Kingsley’s debut album, Lex Hoza’s soulful single, and Chitose Abe’s Levi’s collab plus details on Culture Zine Workshop, Stella’s polo showcase, Boikie Pholo’s film legacy, Black Coffee’s Monaco gala, Jessie Reyez joining In The City, and Ayox’s Apple Music feature.

KINGSLEY DEBUT ALBUM

A Genre-Bending Tale Blending Hip-Hop, Pop, And Personal Story

Kingsley is set to drop his debut album Kountry Klub King on June 13 — his birthday. Fusing hip hop grit with pop energy, the album reflects his journey, creative freedom, and cultural roots. Featuring 14 tracks and standout collaborations, the project is the first in a trilogy and tells a true story of “turning nothing into something.”

PREADD AND PRESAVE HERE

LEX HOZA SINGLE

Afro Pop And Soul Blend For A Deeply Emotional Release

Lex Hoza releases Lay Down, an Afro pop/soul single that fuses African rhythms with heartfelt vocals and emotion-rich storytelling. Produced with Hope Phenye and Gustavo, the track explores love and connection with raw sincerity. Released on 20 May, it’s accompanied by a striking visualizer directed by Sliqx. Lex Hoza marks a bold step in South Africa’s evolving music scene.

LISTEN TO THE SINGLE HERE

CHITOSE ABE COLLECTION

Reimagining Levi’s Icons With Hybrid Forms And Timeless Craftsmanship

Levi’s® and sacai unveil a visionary collection merging denim heritage with Chitose Abe’s experimental design. Women’s, men’s, and unisex pieces reinterpret iconic Levi’s® silhouettes through hybrid tailoring, premium materials, and innovative shapes. Launching May 28th, the campaign, starring Chase Sui Wonders, channels James Dean’s spirit. “Working with Levi’s® has been a beautiful journey,” says Abe.

shop the collection here

CULTURE ZINE WORKSHOP

A Culture Tribute Told Through Community, Creativity, And Street Stories

Culture Zine Workshop returns 31 May 2025 with Rolling Culture – A Culture in Motion, a short film capturing South African street culture. Hosted by Day Marumo at Breezeblock, Brixton, the event features creative voices, zine-making, and storytelling. Produced by Huemxn, in partnership with Culture Club Magazine, the edition celebrates community, creativity, and culture’s ever-evolving motion.

BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE

STELLA AT THE POLO

Stylish Rivalry Blends Sport, Culture, And Stella’s Signature Moments

Argentina edged South Africa 14–12 at the 2025 Nedbank International Polo, but style took center stage. Held at Inanda Club with Stella Artois, the event fused couture, sport, and connection under the “Couture on Green” theme. Guests including Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku and Kay Kay Ribane embodied bold elegance, while DJ Lochive and Stella’s Perfect Serve elevated the premium lifestyle experience.

VIEW THE EVENT GALLERY HERE

BOIKIE PHOLO HONOURED

Khuma Film Festival To Celebrate Acting Legend’s Powerful Screen Legacy

The 2nd Annual Khuma Film Festival will honour veteran actor Boikie Pholo for his lasting impact on South African cinema. Taking place May 28–30 in North West, the event features screenings, workshops, and tributes. Highlights include Sew the Winter into My Skin and a Menzi Ngubane documentary. Pholo’s tribute will spotlight his decades-long contribution to film and television.

entry to this event is free

BLACK COFFEE FUNDRAISER

Foundation Took Gala From Johannesburg To Monaco Grand Prix Stage

The Black Coffee Foundation hosted a star-studded gala in Johannesburg, raising R3.1 million toward its planned Music Academy. Held on Black Coffee’s birthday, the event featured elite guests, performances, and a live auction. Building on this success, the Foundation prepared to host a second high-profile fundraiser in Monaco during the Grand Prix, aiming to gain global support for empowering African artists.

JESSIE REYEZ LIVE

Grammy-nominated & Local Artist Announced On The “In The City Lineup

Jessie Reyez, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, headlined In The City 2025 at SunBet Arena, Pretoria, in October. Known for her raw vocal power and emotional honesty, she joined forces with South Africa’s lordkez and US star Summer Walker. The event, curated by LVRN and STAY LOW, showcased bold R&B voices reshaping sound across continents in one unforgettable night.

buy your tickets here

GBEDU NIGHTS IN CPT

“We Are So Excited For Our Cape Town Leg!” — Founders of Gbedu Nights

Gbedu Nights, a female-led Afrobeats and African music event, made its Cape Town debut this Africa Month, bringing vibrant rhythms, a safe space for women, and immersive cultural elements like Kizomba Hour and Ankara-themed portraits. Founded by DJs Spokenpriestess, Kat Upendi, and Boujeena, the event aims to expand across Africa, uniting music lovers through groove, fun, and freedom.

buy your tickets here

Head to TikTok to see more announcements and event coverage.

AYOX ON APPLE MUSIC

Ayox Reflected On Purpose, Pain And Representing Loners Through Music

On Apple Music’s Africa Now Radio, Ayox joined Nandi Madida to discuss his EP WHEN NOBODY IS WATCHING, finding purpose, and crafting music for “the loners.” He reflected on personal loss, his Yinka Ayefele collab, and the emotional depth behind tracks like “LONELY NIGHTS.” The episode also featured this week’s five hottest African tracks, highlighting fresh talent across the continent.

LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEW HERE