Benni McCarthy. Picture: Instagram
While South African musical icon AKA’s passing is close to reaching the two-year mark, the rapper’s impact on the lives of many simply cannot be ignored.
Known for producing smash hits such as All Eyes On Me, Congratulate, and Fella in Versace, Kiernan Forbes affectionately known by his stage names AKA, and the Supa Mega is arguably considered one of the country’s most decorated artists.
During the span of his career, he has gone on to achieve great success and secured massive partnerships with world renowned brands such as Reebok and Cruz Vodka, while also winning countless awards in the process.
While he may have been dominating the music game in the country, among his greatest treaures were two things, the Manchester United Football team, and Bafana Bafana’s veteran player, Benni McCarthy. In fact, his love for the two ran so deep that he decided to get himself a tattoo of the world-renowned sports team, and later also used the famous Benni McCarthy verse from his song Fella in Versace which is originally from Shibobo which featured Kwaito group TKZee.
In a recent interview with radio broadcaster 5 FM Benny McCarthy reflected on his friendship with the HipHop star after being asked whether he would consider returning to a career in music again.
In response to this he highlighted that he has no interest, emphasising that the only person that might have been able to get him back would be his close friend AKA.
“He was someone really special. We had a bond so we would always be in contact,” he said.
At time of AKA’s passing Benni had just signed a coaching contract with the club his musical friend was fond about, Manchester United, and was therefore outside of the country to fullfill his work obligations.
At the time AKA shared a post honouring the former footballer for this achievement, writing: “I’m Speechless. Benni McCathy and Manchester United … the word ‘proud’ doesn’t do this moment justice. My uncle played for Cape Town Spurs, my father is from the Plein (Mitchell’s Plain). My hero, my GOAT (Greatest of all time) … this is just unbelievable. From Hanover Park to Old Trafford …. unreal.”
Reflecting on what went through his mind at the time he heard of AKA’s passing he said: “I was completely devastated when I found out what happened. I don’t think there’s a person in the music industry who can convince me to get back into music. If I were to do anything, it would have been with Kiernan.”
Also see: Benni McCarthy back in mzansi shores as Carling’s Cup ambassador | Bona Magazine
