Namibian hip-hop mourns Kanibal

MICHAEL KAYUNDE WINDHOEK On Wednesday, 15 September, a dark cloud settled over the Namibian hip-hop fellowship when media announced the death of legend Shilongo Peuyavali Ashipala, better known as Kanibal.The rapper and producer was truly one of a kind in the music industry – with his music impacting both new and old generations. Fellow musicians and fans took to social media to send their condolences to the musician’s family and friends.Renowned rapper KK, who doubles as a friend and frequent collaborator, remembers Kanibal as a musician who never needed anyone else to create magic. “One-man army! A literal genius and one of the realest people I know. For you, my brother, I shed tears. We lost a real one and it breaks my heart,” he said.“No one in this industry believed in me more, no one hyped me up more, since that first day we met at Zoo Park and when I walked into your office with my school uniform and you laughed at me. A true friend and a genuine human being,” KK added. God-given talentSinger and friend Desmond - formerly known as Lil D - said Kanibal inspired many people in so many ways.Describing the late musician as a genius, he added: “Thank you for always believing in us all from the very beginning and sharing your God-given talent with us all. You were never afraid to show love and admiration and wore your heart on your sleeve,” Desmond said.Rapper Emvee K shared that she lost a lecturer, mentor, an icon, “and, most heartbreakingly, I lost a friend”.Pillar of hip-hopJBlack’s message read: Namibian hip-hop has lost its pillar and its home. Those who know, know… Behind the scenes, doing his own stuff, etc. Kanibal single-handedly gave life to Namibian hip-hop.“Take his contribution away and we have a huge hole. Nobody is better than Kanibal in Namibia at making hip-hop music, any type, any flow, any beat, any concept... Only Kanibal hands down. He knows that very well also, at least we told him these things.”According to the initial police report, the ‘Corner’ hitmaker committed suicide. He was 38.

Namibian hip-hop mourns Kanibal

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-08

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Namibian hip-hop mourns Kanibal

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-08

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