K.Keed (born Mihlali Koyana) is a South African hip hop artist and rapper. She began releasing music in 2019 and has since become a prominent figure in the South African rap scene, known for her aggressive delivery and collaborations with major local artists. Her notable releases include the 2022 EP ALTER-EGO and the 2025 album Bite the Bullet.
Born as Mihlali Koyana, K. Keed was born and raised in the township of Gugulethu, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa. From a young age, she was drawn to poetry and began writing her own rhymes while still at school, inspired by the local hip-hop scene in Cape Town's townships. In 2025, she graduated from university.
K.Keed made her official recording debut in early 2019 with the single âÂÂSimiles,â which garnered airplay on community radio and introduced her raw style to South African listeners. On 15 December 2020, she released her first full project, the seven-track album Religion via 1529884 Records DK, showcasing her versatility across trap and lyrical Hip-Hop.
On 26 February 2022, K.Keed dropped ALTER-EGO, an eight-track EP featuring collaborations with Blxckie, Dee Koala and Indigo Stella. Standout singles âÂÂSpazzâ (with Dee Koala) and âÂÂCidâ cemented her reputation as a rising star of the Mother City.
K.Keed blends township slang, trap-driven production and confessional lyricism. Critics note her âÂÂunorthodox flowâ and ability to switch between hard-hitting bars and melodic hooks. She has cited the DIY ethic of Cape TownâÂÂs underground scene and international artists like Nicki Minaj and Cardi B as inspirations for her stage persona.
K.Keed has performed at The Boiler Room: Contemporary Scenes x Wear Broke and has been featured in Redbat's Young & Dope campaign. By the end of 2024, she was the most streamed female Hip-Hop artist in South Africa. In March 2025, K.Keed was featured as an artist for Apple Music's Rap Life Africa initiative.
K.Keed is currently signed to Gallo Record Company, Entertainment Lords, 1529884 Records DK and K.Keed Records.