Linda Mkhize
Linda Mkhize (22 June 1981 – 8 August 2018), better known by his stage name ProKid or PRO, was a South African rapper and producer. He was known for rapping in a mixture of South African township vernacular mostly tsotsi taal and English his music spoke on township realities ( Kasi lifestyle.[1]) Mkhize contributed to the development of kasi rap. His work influenced other artists such as Micky m, Red Button, Siya Shezi, F-eezy, K.O, Emtee Da Huslter, Kwesta and his younger brother DJ Citilyts.
PRO | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Linda Mkhize |
| Also known as | ProKid |
| Born | 22 June 1981 |
| Origin | Soweto, South Africa |
| Died | 8 August 2018 (aged 37)[2] Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Genres | Kasi Rap |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper |
| Instruments | Vocals |
| Years active | 1994–2018 |
| Labels | Gallo Record company, TS Record company, MFE Records Ivilik Records |
| Associated acts | Redbutton, DJ Citilyts, Captain 057, Zakwe and Mxolisi Zuluboy Majozi. |
Early life
Linda Mkhize who was well-known as Prokid or PRO was born and raised in Klipspruit, Soweto. When he was a teenager he would take part in rap battles and cyphers, to showcase his skills. Among other s.a hiphop veterans talking-the likes of PRO VERB, Stogie T and Amu. In 2004 he went on to win an emcee battle competition hosted by Tibo Touch. On the urban youth radio station (YFM) ,his success on this show is what led to his breakthrough record deal.He became famous after the release of his first single Soweto the song is an ode to his birthplace-Soweto it was produced by his long time producer and collaborator "Omen The Chef". A follow up on that was a song called, "Wozobona" it gained widespread popularity in South Africa and set path for his debut album-Heads & Tales.[3]
Death
Linda Mkhize died on 8 August 2018 after a seizure, while visiting a friend in Johannesburg CBD. After the announcement of his death, media stations across the country produced tributes to him.[2]
References
- "Award-winning rapper Linda 'ProKid' Mkhize dies". eNCA. Retrieved 2018-08-09.
- "Hip-hop artist ProKid dies". SABC News. 2018-08-09. Retrieved 2018-08-09.
- Zeeman, Kyle (2018-08-09). "#RIPProKid: 'I tried to find myself again'- My last interview with ProKid". Timeslive. Retrieved 2018-08-09.