Producer KJ Conteh remembers last moments with AKA and his impact on his career

A year after the fatal shooting of Kiernan “AKA” Forbes, KJ Conteh remembers the star's legacy and the impact he's had on his life.  

The American-based producer KJ Conteh has worked with many renowned stars around the world. From 50 Cent and Snoop Dogg to Chris Brown, Wiz Khalifa and Drake, the list is endless. Among these greats, he said AKA left the most lasting impression on him he will never forget. 

"The first impression I had of AKA was him being a person who is intelligent, observant and extremely talented," he told TshisaLIVE.

"He was one of a kind ... He definitely stands out as one of the brightest artists I’ve ever worked with, as far as his understanding of music production and putting a song together. He actually taught me a lot of things from observing how he tackles a song."

Growing up in South Africa, KJ first met AKA during a studio session with his close friend rapper Da L.E.S. It was then that KJ gave AKA the beat to his hit song Dreamwork and they formed a friendship.

"We became really good friends. I respected and looked up to him. There are so many beautiful memories I have with Kiernan.

"I respect that his craft always came first. When he had the opportunity and urge to create, he would do it. He stands out as one of the hardest workers and most dedicated that I’ve worked with."

A month before AKA's murder on February 10, he travelled to LA for leisure and also recorded music with KJ. It would be the last time they saw each other. 

"I couldn't believe it when I heard what had happened. I was literally sick for weeks. It took a long time for me to get into production again ... He was just such a great individual."

His latest single Something New from his upcoming album is dedicated to his brother, who passed away in South Africa in 2017. It's also dedicated to his two-year-old daughter. 

This is his musical comeback after taking time out to grieve, he said. 

"I always try and stay on a positive side. I wanted to bring something new to the table. I want to focus on the rollout of the project now ...

"My musical influence is what sets me apart from everybody else. Growing up in South Africa, I listened to kwaito, house and hip-hop, as well as other African music. So when I moved to the States, I had a different understanding of melodies than most people.

"My unique sound is what attracted a lot of artists and the fact that I could also master their sounds while putting my sound to it, I thank South Africa for."