Pitch Black Afro

Pitch Black Afro (Thulani Ngcobo) has taken the kwaito/hip hop movement to new heights as these genres gather momentum in South Africa.

This dynamically unique rapper exploded onto the scene with his phenomenal self-titled hit, "Pitch Black Afro."

Born in Orlando East, he moved to Johannesburg after completing his schooling and discovered a love of hip-hop in 1995. Between then and 2001, Pitch Black Afro refined his musical writing skills. He then took part in the Rap Activity Jams on YFM, where he won MC of the week and then the month. Here DJ Cleo, who was impressed with his lyrical delivery, spotted him.

Pitch Black Afro became a firm favorite in the clubs and bashes where he performed with a crew called The Native Huts Allstars. His demo was played frequently on Metro FM.

Following DJ Cleo's success as a producer for Mzekezeke, Brown Dash, Arthur and Jeff Maluleke, amongst others, he approached Pitch Black Afro to sign as the first artist to his record label, Will of Steel Productions.

"Pitch Black Afro immediately stood out for me," says DJ Cleo. "Every time he takes the mike, his lyrical style and flow impresses me. The novelty behind his lyrics, his body language and his energy is mind blowing. It's like he raps in puns. This boy is talented!"

DJ Cleo produced his platinum-selling debut album, Styling Gel, making him the biggest selling hip-hop artist thus far.

By public vote he received the Metro Fm music Awards for Best Hip Hop album in 2004.

— Courtesy Calabash Music