Bloemfontein legendary hip-hop artist, Kulax Nthoethata, also known as Sipho Khaile, is marking two decades in the music industry with style and purpose. He is set to release his 14th studio project, titled “Time Tested EP,” on May 27.
Over his 20-year career, Kulax has earned numerous accolades, including being a two-time Free State Mokete Music Award winner and a recipient of the Golden Bean Music Award. He’s also been honored with multiple nominations at the South African Hip Hop Awards, solidifying his status in the music scene.
“The accolades were earned in the trenches, not in the boardroom. Trends came, sounds changed, and some sold out for a fraction of the value. We stayed loyal to the craft. Everything else came after the craft, the music. 20+ years of saying no to the fake and yes to the preservation of, and respect for, the craft. That’s why we are still here. That’s why it still sounds like us,” Kulax expressed.
“Time Tested” is more than just an album; it’s a powerful statement against gender-based violence, embodying hip-hop with a conscience. Kulax aims to call out issues within the culture while also taking a stand to protect it. This project exemplifies social responsibility in music.
One of the notable tracks from the EP, “Happy,” premiered on Big Brother Mzansi in 2026 and has been well-received. It offers a feel-good vibe, proving that joy and lyrical depth can coexist. Another anticipated track, “Bloodsuckers,” is generating buzz as a potential club hit, with early listeners and industry critics predicting it will dominate hip-hop playlists and radio charts later this year. Featuring production by ProPound Beats, it’s a fusion of hard-hitting beats and substantive themes.
“Boom bap bones with 2026 teeth. No cosigns. No gimmicks. Just heavy beats, lived experience, and 20+ years with lessons pressed into waveform. Because longevity isn’t luck. It’s loyalty. Fourteen projects deep, awards on the shelf, multiple placements secured, and still loyal to the craft that raised me,” Kulax emphasized.
As he celebrates this milestone, Kulax continues to push boundaries and inspire, leaving a lasting impact on the South African hip-hop landscape.
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