The Self-Made Leader of New Age Guz Redefines African Street Music
Johannesburg, South Africa – In a time where conformity often takes center stage, LMK—born Bangiswani Makopo—refuses to play it safe. Instead, he’s rewriting the rulebook of African urban music with a sound he proudly calls New Age Guz. It’s raw. It’s rooted. It’s revolutionary. And it’s about to get even bigger.
More than just a rapper, LMK is a self-made cultural entrepreneur whose mission is deeper than beats and bars. His music is a living, breathing tribute to the streets that raised him and the legends who paved the way. Think kwaito’s bounce, hip-hop’s edge, afrobeats’ rhythm, and rap’s lyricism—fused into a single genre-bending force that LMK is proudly pushing forward. This is Grootman Music—grown, grounded, and unapologetically African.
From the Background to the Forefront
Before stepping into the limelight, LMK was shaping sounds behind the scenes at some of South Africa’s most respected labels—Ghetto Ruff and Guluva Entertainment—working with artists like Getto Sons and Cameroon’s Wax Dey. It was in those years that LMK refined his vision, waiting for the right moment to make his own statement.
In 2019, that moment came. LMK released his debut mixtape, Son of Musa, under his independent label Noir Nubian, signaling the arrival of a new voice—fiercely independent and rooted in authenticity. That same year marked the beginning of a powerful alliance with creative visionary Obren Msuku of Msuku Media. What started as mutual admiration evolved into one of the most dynamic creative partnerships in South African music.
“Umthandazo” – A Homage and a Declaration
In 2020, LMK dropped the explosive anthem “Umthandazo” featuring none other than Big Zulu. More than a track, it was a cultural moment. With a powerful cameo from Zola 7 in the music video, LMK didn’t just pay homage to legends like Brown Dash—he declared himself next in the lineage of street royalty. This was no longer just music; it was a movement. Watch here
“Shelele” – The Streets Approve
Fast forward to 2024, and LMK returned with “Shelele”—a raucous street anthem that immediately caught fire. Featuring DJ Sabby, Loki, Khalipa-Igama, NdabaNdaba, and Obren Msuku, the track was produced by TCT of Livelli Lifestyle. Shelele isn’t just another banger—it’s a sonic flag planted firmly in the soil of the culture, declaring that LMK isn’t a passing wave; he’s the tide. Watch here
The Game Changer: A Music Camp to Remember
Now, LMK is entering a new chapter—one that promises to redefine African hip-hop. Together with Obren Msuku and powerhouse executive producer Rich Mahog, LMK hosted an exclusive three-day music camp to build what will be his debut EP. And this wasn’t just any session. It was a convergence of African excellence.
The camp brought together a superteam of sonic architects, including 37MPH, Lee Global, Civil, Nator, Kiddo CSA, Manu Worldstar, and beat wizard Lunatik. The result? A body of work that doesn’t just reflect where LMK is—it declares where African street music is headed.
Beyond the Music: A Movement with Meaning
While many chase clout, LMK chases purpose. He’s headlined stages like the Heritage Unity Festival alongside titans like Kwesta and MiCasa. But it’s his work behind the scenes that sets him apart. Through initiatives supported by Kunene Makopo Risk Solutions, LMK is investing in the future of the arts. Whether it’s backing historic productions like Sarafina at The Market Theatre or supporting the SAFTAs, his impact extends beyond the booth.
The Future Is Now
LMK isn’t waiting for a seat at the table—he’s building his own. With the soul of Zola, the ambition of Jay-Z, and a vision rooted in culture and community, LMK is more than a musician. He’s a movement, a mentor, and a modern-day griot telling the story of the streets with elegance and edge.
His message is simple but powerful:
The throne isn’t given. It’s taken.
Plug into LMK’s world of heat, hustle, and heritage: https://linktr.ee/lmkza