Top 4 Subliminals In K.O Featuring AKA’s “King Size” Music Video
Top 4 Subliminals In K.O Featuring AKA’s “King Size” Music Video. K.O’s King Size, a collaboration with the late rapper AKA, is not just a celebration of music, but a tapestry of artistry woven with subtle messages and deep visual cues.
The music video is packed with subliminal elements that honour both the legacies of these two South African icons and convey powerful messages to their fans. As we dissect the finer details of the visuals, we uncover moments that serve as a poignant reminder of their bond and the depth of their artistry.
“Run Jozi” Flashback: K.O’s Push-Ups on the V-Class
In the opening scene, K.O is seen doing push-ups atop a Mercedes V-Class van—a striking visual that immediately captures the viewer’s attention. But this isn’t merely a show of strength or an unusual stunt; the setting and action pay homage to one of K.O and AKA‘s most iconic tracks, “Run Jozi,” which was shot at the iconic Mandela Bridge. In the original “Run Jozi” video, K.O performed push-ups, a moment he revisits in the “King Size” music video as a nostalgic reflection on his music journey and the milestones along the way.
The Fallen King on the Chessboard: AKA’s Passing
One of the most subtle yet striking images in the King Size video is that of a fallen king on a chessboard. The fallen king represents a key subliminal message—AKA’s untimely passing. Chess has long been a metaphor for strategy, power, and dominance in hip-hop, and the king piece symbolizes the supreme ruler of the game.
To see the king toppled is a chilling reflection of the void left by AKA’s death, symbolizing the loss of a major figure in South African music. The chessboard, with its black-and-white contrast, further amplifies the duality of life and death, success and struggle, encapsulating the painful reality of the music industry’s fleeting nature.
The Mic Draped with the South African Flag
In a moment dripping with symbolism, the South African flag is tied to a microphone, a direct nod to AKA’s iconic stage presence. The flag represents not only national pride but also AKA’s role in carrying the weight of South African hip-hop on his shoulders, especially during his live performances.
The sight of the flag—often seen draped across his shoulders or in his hands during concerts—reminds fans of his immense influence and his ability to galvanize the crowd. By tying the flag to a microphone, K.O is subtly echoing AKA’s live performance energy, immortalizing his contribution to the culture, and honouring the audacious patriotism he always carried in his music.
AKA’s Star Sign Music Video – A Cosmic Tribute
Another artistic inclusion is a visual allusion to AKA’s “Starsigns” music video, a fan-favourite and a reflection of AKA’s introspective side. “Starsigns” featuring Stogie T known for its theme of destiny, purpose, and spirituality, represented AKA’s journey and growth as an artist.
The visual cues in “King Size” seem to nod to this, blending celestial motifs with powerful visuals that evoke a sense of fate and legacy. AKA’s star sign was Aquarius, a symbol of originality, innovation, and uniqueness—all traits he embodied in his music and life.
The “King Size” music video is more than just a piece of art; it’s a love letter to AKA’s memory and legacy. Every frame, every detail, and every visual decision seems infused with intention. Through this video, K.O. not only honours his late friend but also reminds fans of the indelible mark AKA left on the industry. It’s a powerful reminder of how legends live on, not only in their music but in the hearts and creativity of those who loved them.
