AKA’s ‘Touch My Blood’ Album Turns 7. Seven years ago, South African hip-hop gave birth to a cultural phenomenon. On June 15, 2018, Kiernan “AKA” Forbes released Touch My Blood — an album that would not only go on to define his legacy but also shift the trajectory of SA hip-hop forever.
Now, as Touch My Blood celebrates its seventh anniversary, fans and artists alike are reflecting on the indelible mark it left on the industry. From the moment it dropped, Touch My Blood was more than just a collection of songs — it was a statement.
Fusing sharp lyricism, pop sensibility, and high-level production, AKA delivered radio hits and street anthems alike. Tracks like “Fela in Versace”, “StarSigns”, and “Jika” became instant classics, dominating charts and dance floors while capturing the swagger and soul of a generation.
Touch My Blood was AKA’s first independent release under his own Beam Group imprint, making its success all the more symbolic. In a genre often driven by labels and gatekeepers, AKA carved his path, self-funding the album and pioneering a new business model for South African artists.
The anniversary comes with a bittersweet undertone following AKA’s tragic passing in February 2023. Yet, his music continues to thrive, and Touch My Blood remains a towering part of his legacy.
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