lordkez - aka Keziah Zoë Meyers - the must-watch 21-year-old musician from Kimberley in the Northern Cape - continues to stamp her authority on the music scene with her timeless music.
She is described as "the genre-agnostic South-African powerhouse that’s taking over the scene, and firmly cementing herself in the hall of fame of new wave African artists officially killing it".
With the soul and sound of someone far beyond her years, lordkez is a polymath who’s creativity knows no bounds; an accomplished musician, poet and visual artists, her creations come together to form an amalgamation of art that transcends mediums, and makes her the all-round artist we’ve come to admire.
And, now, another accolade to her impressive creative resume: a collaboration with an edgy tequila brand Espolòn to celebrate her new music releases this year.
Espolon branding has works of Posada on the label. Sharing similar traits with lordKez, Posada was a 19th-century artist and printmaker, a true pioneer, and a bit of a rebel in his field. His most famous works, the calaveras (skeleton illustrations), were powerful commentaries on the social injustices of his time. He gave his people a voice and left the art world with a style that continues to influence pop culture today.
Inspired by his story, lordkez felt a deep connection and decided that her brand aligned with Espolòn. Their collaboration resulted in a campaign celebrating February as "Margarita Month".
Coming into her own this year, lordkez capped off a successful 2024 by winning a South African Music Award (SAMA) for her R&B album Testament. Through years of dedication, late nights, and consistency, she the Best R&B Album award.
lordkez recently sat down to discuss her SAMA win, working with Espolòn, and what success looks like in the new year.
The following interview has been lightly edited for clarity and context.
Your album Testament won a SAMA award. After all your hard work, how does it feel to have reached this milestone?
lordkez: It’s an honour to win this award and be recognised as one of the leading female artists in SA. I truly appreciate the recognition from the SAMAs. Representing R&B and Alternative Music is special to me because I dream of putting South African music on a global stage.
Out of all the features you’ve done, which one is your favorite and why?
lordkez: My personal favorite feature dropped on March 7, 2025, on Ginger Trill’s new album. The song is called Rap Don’t Pay, and I think it might be my favorite to date. I also have another favorite coming up on Shekhinah’s next album.
In 2024, you featured on Open with Hannah Ray and Mars Baby. What was it like working on that track?
lordkez: I loved pouring my emotions into that song. The studio session was amazing—Hannah Ray is incredibly talented, and Mars Baby is my guy. We had so much fun creating the song, and it turned out beautifully.
What are your thoughts on collaboration?
lordkez: I think collaboration is important — especially when it happens organically. You can always tell when a collaboration isn’t natural. I love working with people and brands that share similar core values because that type of alignment always leads to something special.
What’s your creative process when working on features?
lordkez: When I get a feature request, I first focus on the sonics. Then, I analyze the message of the song to see if I connect with it. Once I do, I make sure my contribution respects the song’s theme—I don’t like when features feel disconnected from the track’s message. Then, I put my best size-3 foot forward and record from an authentic place.
What can fans expect from you this year?
lordkez: New music of course. I have a completed project that I’m really excited about. Its called Me You and the 90s — it is going to be a vibe!
Four years ago, you released Sunday featuring J-Tek and Priddy Ugly. How did that song come together?
lordkez: That song is special to me—it was part of my first official project with STAY LOW. I wrote the song and left space for features. Since I already knew Priddy, we got together and finished his verse. Then I sent it to J-Tek, whom I had connected with online. He sent back his verse, and it all came together beautifully, inspired by our shared love for Sundays.
What does success look like to you in 2025?
lordkez: I’m always focused on developing my artistry. If I can look back at 2025 and see growth in every aspect of my career — from the music I release to the performances I give and the business ventures I pursue — that would be a success. I want to elevate every single year that I’m blessed to do this.
You recently took part in a campaign with Espolòn. What drew you to be a part of it, and what inspired you to say yes? Additionally, how do you personally connect with the brand's "Game Changer" essence?
lordkez: I have always been aware of the brand's edgy persona, and since I also have an avant-garde style, I enjoy its aesthetics. I consider myself a pioneer, so I relate to the Game Changer energy.
What does authenticity mean for you in your industry?
lordkez: My entire career has been built on being authentically original. I’ve never chased trends or fads in my music — I’ve stayed true to myself, keeping artistic integrity at the core of my creative process.
What’s your ideal party scene?
lordkez: Honestly, I like house parties — old-school ‘90s house parties. They don’t have to have red cups or random drunk people in the pool, but there’s something special about controlling the music and the vibe in the comfort of your own space.
Can you share your first experience with a Margarita?
lordkez: Yes! The first time I had a Margarita was in Johannesburg. I was 22 and attending a fashion event. I ordered one because it felt like the perfect drink for dressing up and socialising.
* The origins of the Margarita remain a mystery to this day. Some say it was created in the 1930s by a bartender for a showgirl who only drank tequila, while others believe it was the accidental brainchild of a Tijuana socialite.