Kempton Park rapper Klouty wins Artist of the Year award
The recognition is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and determination he has poured into his journey as a rapper and producer.
Kempton Park resident Zwelethu Ntombela, better known by his stage name Klouty, celebrated one of the biggest milestones of his music career when he was recently honoured with the Artist of the Year award.
The recognition is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and determination he has poured into his journey as a rapper and producer.
Before this win, Ntombela placed second at the East Side Talent Show in the performer of the year category, but he had never previously claimed a first-place award.
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“This award heals my inner child. Throughout primary school, I always got silver academic awards. Last year, I earned second place in a school talent show, and earlier this year, I came second at the East Side Talent Show.
“This Artist of the Year award is my first first-place win, and I will forever cherish it,” Ntombela said.
His love for music began with wanting to fit in with his brother’s rap group.
Feeling left out, he found solace and expression in music.
Ntombela draws inspiration from South African rappers Nasty C, Blxckie, and Lucasraps, discovering the latter two during lockdown.
He admires the creativity and consistency of underground artists, noting how they experiment freely with their sound.
Ntombela described his creative process: “I listen to beats and freestyle flows while doing chores to avoid overthinking. Once I find the right flow, I start writing the song or punching in lines while recording.”
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Among his releases is the song Picture Me Bigger, which Ntombela says encourages picturing himself beyond his current status. His latest single, SOMEBODY, is his favourite to perform because of its beat switch, which surprises audiences.
“I am Klouty; this is my destiny,” he said, explaining how this mindset helps him own the stage.
Ntombela prides himself on being versatile and unique.
“I’ve never heard an artist who sounds like me. My verses are packed with punchlines, and my hooks stick in people’s heads,” he said.
Looking ahead, Ntombela hopes to collaborate with Nigerian singer Tems to create Afrobeats music and aims to reach one million streams across all platforms.
He also envisions being a regular feature on South African TV channels.
Reflecting on the East Side Talent Show, Ntombela shared a standout moment.
“The most memorable part of the competition was performing with my mom. She came to support me, and it was wholesome sharing that experience with her. We actually mosh-pitted together, something most people haven’t done with their mom.”
Ntombela admits that success in the music industry is not easy.
Talent alone is not enough; strong brand management and consistent content are essential to reach audiences. Still, with his determination, creativity, and unique sound, Klouty is poised to make his mark on the South African music scene.
