SA: AKA’s Levels album to be featured in tribute film

26 Jun 2024 - 17:02

Published under the Creative Commons Licence

Levels, the sophomore album by the late South African rapper AKA, will appear in a tribute film to commemorate its release in 2014.

The late AKA. Photo: Facebook

Titled #AKALevelsX, the film is set to premiere on Channel O and the official AKAWorldwide YouTube channel on 30 June at 5pm.

The 11-track project will be celebrated with an all-star cast appearing in the film, including AKA’s childhood friend Simphiwe ‘Sim Dope’ Gumede, South African rapper and television presenter Nomuzi Mabena, music producer Tumelo ‘Tweezy’ Mathebula, Ghanaian Sarkodie and several other key players “who will explain how AKA defined an era.”

“#AKALevelsX is a short film that captures the essence of the influence and the level of impact that AKA has made not only through his music and his dynamic live performances, but also depicts the impact Supa Mega has made in the lives of everyone who worked with him,” Sony Music Entertainment Africa managing director Sean Watson said. “May his legacy continue to shine a light and set an example for the next generation.”

To celebrate the album’s milestone, an innovative augmented reality (AR) filter has been designed, allowing fans to record and share their favourite rap lines on TikTok and Instagram using the hashtag #AKALevelsX. By doing so, they will automatically be entered into a chance to attend an exclusive pre-screening on 27 June, ahead of the official premiere on 30 June.

Additionally, a limited edition vinyl of Levels has been released to commemorate this achievement, offering the Megacy and vinyl enthusiasts a unique opportunity to experience the album's iconic tracks in a new and nostalgic way.

“It is my wish that my son is remembered through his music and that his legacy lives on forever,” AKA’s father Tony Forbes said. “This is an important milestone, and I encourage everyone to celebrate this moment in memory of Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes.”

Vth Season chief opportunity creator Raphael Benza said: “As we kick off #AKALevelsX week, we are requesting for radio DJs, fans and peers around the world to hold an hour tribute to AKA and Levels in the build-up to and on the day of the anniversary, 30 June 2024.”