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Cape Town - Rapper AKA is notoriously private about his relationship with Ntombezinhle "DJ Zinhle" Jiyane, but he happily told City Press last week that he’s dating the love of his life.
It was a good week for AKA, whose real name is Kiernan Forbes.
He picked up six nominations for the Metro FM Music Awards and will go head-to-head with Cassper Nyovest, with whom he had a public feud last year.
The two have buried the hatchet and, when asked about it, Forbes said: "That’s old news."
But don’t expect the pair to hit the recording studio together.
"I don’t think I’ll do any collaborations with Cassper Nyovest any time soon," Forbes told City Press during an interview at a Joburg restaurant.
He has a reputation for being high-maintenance and a bit of a diva, but in person Forbes is down-to-earth and humble.
"I’m a better person than I was a year ago. I’m more refined and calculated. I pick my moments better now."
Although he’s often outspoken on social networks, Forbes is discreet about his love life.
Recently, though, he and Jiyane jetted off to Mauritius on a holiday.
Each posted photographs of themselves on their Instagram accounts – but their matching attire hinted once again at their long-term relationship.
"It was a proper holiday after such a long time. It was good to recharge myself and not to take photos with people for a week,” said Forbes.
"It was a fascinating and an interesting holiday."
But the 26-year-old rapper politely declined – again – to name his partner, saying only that he’s in love with an entertainer who is also a businesswoman.
"We’ll start a family when the time is right. Life is a journey," he said.
His professional journey is going well. "Accumulatively" Forbes reckons he’s made his millions.
"I’ve done well for myself. I have a clothing label called Head Honcho x AKA. I have created jobs for many people, including my mother. She’s working for me."
He’s one of South Africa’s most successful hip-hop artists.
"According to South African standards, I would say I’ve arrived.
"But to me, I’m not even halfway to where I want to be in my career. I believe there’s so much more to come from me.
"I would like to think of myself as a pioneer and someone who has opened doors for new hip-hop artists."
It’s also been part of his journey to prove to himself that he’s "not a fly-by-night".
"I’m here to stay for many years," said Forbes.
