K.Keed and Orish Achieve Significant Cover Features After “uMgaranto II.” K.Keed and Orish are elevating their uMgaranto II initiative with prominent cover stories in Apple Music’s Rap Life and the Mail & Guardian.
K.Keed took to social media to celebrate the news, posting a lively message that read, “COVER BOYSSSSSSSS,” while expressing gratitude to Apple Music for the Rap Life cover and Mail & Guardian for their inclusion. She reminded followers that their recent release, UMG II, is now available.
Released on July 24, 2026, uMgaranto II marks a reunion between K.Keed and producer Orish as they follow up their 2023 project, uMgaranto. The album delves deeper into life in the township through isiXhosa lyrics and insights gained from personal experiences.
Their feature in the Mail & Guardian highlights the cultural significance behind this project. K.Keed and Orish aim to make a lasting impact in South African hip-hop by authentically representing their country instead of adhering to global trends.
“When the world is looking at our music and the visual representation of it, they need to see what South Africa is,” the duo commented.
This ethos is also reflected in the album’s artwork, which showcases the beloved puppet duo Gundi no Mazwi. The visuals evoke shared memories and capture everyday township life, emphasizing their dedication to a local identity.
Musically, uMgaranto II navigates themes of humor, aspiration, camaraderie, and street realities, highlighting the synergy between K.Keed and Orish. Their dynamic is particularly highlighted in the lead single “Abenam,” where an exhilarating neighborhood chase forms the backdrop for a detailed and engaging narrative.
The feature in Apple Music’s Rap Life is another crucial aspect of the album’s promotion, providing the duo an opportunity to showcase their Xhosa-influenced sound and collaborative approach to a broader audience.
For K.Keed, this recognition adds to the momentum gained from previous works like Bite the Bullet. Orish continues to show the creative strength of their long-standing partnership.
In an era when artists often gravitate towards dominant sounds, K.Keed and Orish have opted for a path that prioritizes their culture, language, and lived experiences. The interest surrounding uMgaranto II indicates that genuine artistic expression remains relevant and impactful.
With the album released and significant cover features, K.Keed and Orish have set a strong precedent for uMgaranto II, while reinforcing that their journey is still unfolding.
