MBABANE– Emerging Eswatini hip-hop artist King Bazozo is turning criticism into motivation with his latest single, Ngiyakhuphuka, a trap-inspired hip-hop track encouraging aspiring musicians to believe in themselves and remain determined despite discouragement.
Born Alex Zwane on December 6, 2006, the Mabovini, Mankayane-born artist, who is also frequently found in Ngculwini, Manzini, began taking music seriously in 2023 after friends encouraged him to pursue his talent.
Before entering the studio, Bazozo would often freestyle with friends at emajiteni. He later began downloading free beats, recording himself on his phone using an application called Add Voice to Music, and sharing his recordings with friends.
Their positive feedback motivated him to take the next step and record professionally.
However, his stage name carries a deeper meaning rooted in his family history.
Bazozo said his father told him that his grandfather, Bazozo Nsele, was also passionate about music and played the guitar during his time. He adopted the name King Bazozo to revive the family’s musical legacy.
The name gained popularity when a Rastafarian man, familiar with his grandfather’s history, began calling him King Bazozo after hearing him freestyle at the age of 16. Other young people in his community eventually adopted the name.
Music became an outlet after losing his father
King Bazozo’s journey into professional music was not without challenges.
While in Form Four at Mankayane High School in 2023, he saved his pocket money to pay for studio sessions. During the same period, he experienced the painful loss of his father, an experience that influenced his early songwriting.
His first song, Hustler Dawg, reflected his experiences and the reality of life after his father’s passing. He recorded the track using a downloaded beat at Swazi Swag Records under producer King Kanga.
He subsequently worked on other songs, including Imphumelelo, while continuing to develop his sound.
His journey also introduced him to other emerging musicians. He collaborated with Mnd3nii on a track titled Ntabas and later became friends with Bubuh De Vocalist in early 2025. Their relationship led to another collaboration, with Bazozo featuring on her song Wena, which they worked on around January 2026.
‘NGIYAKHUPHUKA’ sends a message of perseverance
His latest release, Ngiyakhuphuka, was inspired by people who doubted his musical ambitions, with some telling him that he was wasting his time.
Produced using a beat he purchased from Mr Kangaroo, the song reflects his determination to rise above negativity while encouraging others to keep pursuing their dreams.
According to Bazozo, the track is intended for upcoming artists and anyone with a talent they wish to develop.
He said people should not allow discouraging remarks to determine their future, as not everyone will support their ambitions.
The artist has also been working to grow his audience through live performances. In 2025, he performed at Let’s Love Lead, an event hosted by Zweli The Vocalist at Phonjwane Hall. He also performed in churches and shared videos of his performances on social media, helping him attract more followers.
The song’s message is simple: when people say you are going nowhere, keep working towards your goals and remind yourself that you are rising.
Ngiyakhuphuka is available on YouTube, where listeners can discover his sound and message.
Amapiano collaboration coming
King Bazozo is preparing to release another single titled Batfukile, featuring Lindy PC, whose real name is Lindelwa Dlamini.
The upcoming track marks a move into Amapiano, a genre that has influenced his musical interests for years.
Bazozo said he grew up listening to South African hip-hop artists such as Nasty C and the late Riky Rick, while his Amapiano influences included Mpura and Sir Trill. He particularly admired Mpura’s style and often sang along to his music.
With Batfukile, he hopes to demonstrate his versatility and bring an energetic sound to young listeners who enjoy Amapiano.
The song is produced by Boykid, a producer from Matsapha based in Mbikwakhe, and will feature Lindy PC on the hook. Bazozo said the collaboration also came about because the dancer had expressed interest in working with him musically.
The release date has not yet been announced. The song is expected to be available on YouTube and Audiomack, with updates to be shared on Facebook under Alex Zwane and King Bazozo.
Bigger dreams ahead
Looking to the future, King Bazozo hopes to collaborate with established artists, including True Classic, perform at major events and expand his audience beyond Eswatini.
He remains open to working with artists across different genres, except Maskandi, and welcomes booking opportunities.
As he continues to establish himself in the music industry, he has a message for those following his journey.
“Please continue to support me and subscribe to my YouTube channel. I’m King Bazozo,” he said.
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