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Trending in Da L.E.S.’s World
Latest Album
313
Released Dec 1, 2023
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Quick Facts
Born
1985
1985
From
South Africa
South Africa
Journey
Da L.E.S, born Leslie Jonathan Mampe Jr. in July 1985 in Washington, D.C., is a South African-American rapper, producer, entrepreneur, and television personality recognized for his contribution to the evolution of contemporary South African hip hop. Raised between the United States and South Africa, he developed an early appreciation for music through his family environment before establishing himself as a leading figure in Johannesburg’s urban music scene.
Da L.E.S first gained commercial recognition as a member of the hip-hop collective Jozi, alongside Ishmael Morabe and Bongani Fassie. The group’s debut album, "Muthaland Crunk," introduced a localized adaptation of Southern American crunk music into South African hip hop, influencing youth culture, street fashion, and urban entertainment during the late 2000s. Their success positioned Da L.E.S as one of the genre’s emerging cultural voices.
Following the group’s rise, Da L.E.S launched a solo career with the album "Fresh 2 Def" in 2008. His mainstream breakthrough arrived with the single “Heaven,” featuring AKA and Maggz, which became one of the defining South African hip-hop records of the decade. He continued to build his catalogue through commercially successful albums, including "Mandela Money" in 2014, "North God" in 2015, "Diamond in Africa" in 2016, "High Level" in 2017, "Caution to the Wind" in 2020, and "313" in 2023. His recordings blend hip-hop, trap, crunk, and African rhythmic influences while emphasizing aspirational themes, nightlife culture, and luxury aesthetics.
In addition to recording, Da L.E.S founded Fresh 2 Def Productions, strengthening his role as an independent creative executive and brand strategist. He expanded his media presence through television appearances, including 'Jozi – Moving the City' and 'The Real Jozi A-Listers,' further reinforcing his influence within South African popular culture.
Da L.E.S has collaborated with artists such as AKA, Burna Boy, Riky Rick, DJ Speedsta, Gemini Major, and Maggz. His influence extends beyond music into fashion and lifestyle branding, particularly through the popularization of the Ama Kip Kip streetwear movement during the rise of South African urban youth culture.