What does it take to rise from the underground and become a voice that echoes through the streets and beyond? For AV, it’s a blend of raw talent, relentless drive, and a story so powerful it demands to be heard. A South African, Congolese, and Grenadian powerhouse, AV isn’t just a rapper—he’s a storyteller, a mentor, and a beacon of hope for those who dare to dream big. From freestyling in parks to performing at Wembley Stadium, his journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the unshakeable belief that greatness is earned.
The Moment It All Began
AV’s journey started on an ordinary day in the park, surrounded by friends who were effortlessly freestyling. Watching his boys, Martin Staxx and Dylan TKO, go back-to-back, he felt a spark ignite. Determined to rise above, he boldly declared, “Watch, I’m gonna be better than both of you! I’m gonna be the best rapper ever!” Laughter followed, but that moment marked the birth of his dream.
Driven by this newfound ambition, AV immediately began writing, freestyling, and experimenting with beats. “I was so in my zone, I didn’t even hear my mum calling me for dinner,” he recalls. When she finally walked into his room, curious about the noise, he confidently told her, “I’m gonna be a rapper.” Her response? “What about acting?” Without hesitation, he replied, “I’ll do both.” And just like that, AV’s journey began.
Finding Inspiration in Struggles
AV’s music is deeply personal, drawn from the struggles that shaped him. His journey started in South Africa, where he learned to find joy even when he had nothing. Later, living in foster care in the UK, his foster mum introduced him to choir practice, sparking his love for singing. “Fast-forward, and I’m doing solos at church—that’s where I learned how to sing,” he says.
His first real taste of music creation came at 4 Marlow Road Youth Club, where he made his debut track, Better Than Ever, with the guidance of his mentors, Hardip Dhanjal and Noel from the R&B group DAMAGE. These pivotal moments propelled him forward, leading to a performance in front of 700 people at the Duke of Edinburgh Awards at just 14 years old.
At 16, AV’s talent earned him the Musical Entrepreneur Award at the House of Parliament, solidifying his place as an emerging artist. But his ambitions went beyond accolades. Despite being offered a deal with Ministry of Sound, he chose to walk away, determined to understand the music business and maintain ownership of his art.
A Journey Marked by Milestones
AV’s journey is marked by incredible milestones. From releasing his first mixtape, Started, on DatPiff and SoundCloud at 18, to hosting his own radio show, Therapeutic Bangers, AV consistently championed underground talent. “My focus was on upcoming and underground artists, giving them a chance to be heard on the radio,” he explains.
In 2022, he performed at Wembley Stadium, a moment made possible by Hearts Of Talent (H.O.T), a charity advocating against knife crime. “I’ve since become a mentor and ambassador for them,” AV says proudly. In 2023, he took the stage at Spurs Stadium, followed by electrifying performances at O2 Islington, where he’s set to perform again on February 13, 2025.
His latest collaboration, Midnight Creep with OMILLI, dropped on July 29, 2024, with the video featured on GRM DAILY. And that’s just the beginning—his upcoming project, Boomdox, promises to shake the scene later this year.
A Versatile Visionary
AV’s music is a blend of influences, reflecting his diverse heritage. “Being South African, Congolese, and Grenadian influences me a lot,” he shares. “I use my experiences in my music, and I’m proud of who I am.” His unique sound is defined by his versatility and ability to switch genres effortlessly. “Nobody does what I do better than me!” he declares with confidence.
His influences are legendary: Michael Jackson, James Brown, Tupac, Biggie, DMX, and Andre 3000. From the UK scene, he draws inspiration from icons like Wretch 32, Skepta, Ghetts, and Giggs. “They helped shape my artistry—whether it was improving my flow, bars, lyrics, or punchlines,” he explains.
The Power of Purpose
For AV, music isn’t just about fame or fortune—it’s about purpose. His ultimate goal? “To do the will of YAHUAH through music as the gateway,” he reveals. But his dreams don’t stop there. He aims to sell out tours worldwide, release platinum and diamond albums, and create a legacy that resonates far beyond music.
His son is a significant motivation. “Whether me and his mother were ready or not, he came at a time I really needed. He is my motivation to do better,” AV shares. Family, faith, and the drive to inspire others are at the core of his vision.
Looking to the Future
With his eyes set on the future, AV envisions a life filled with success, love, and purpose. “In five years, I see myself dominating the music scene while generating revenue in different business ventures. I want to help and change my people’s lives and bring them closer to the most high, YAHUAH,” he says.
He dreams of creating his own label and conglomerate, building a beautiful life for his family, and leaving an indelible mark on the world. But above all, he wants to enjoy the journey and have fun doing what he loves.
Catch AV Live and Stay Tuned
If you missed your chance to see AV live at O2 Islington on February 13, 2025, don’t worry, with his upcoming project, Boomdox, on the way, this is just the beginning of an incredible journey.
AV’s story is one of ambition, perseverance, and an unshakeable belief in his purpose. In a world full of noise, his voice stands out—raw, real, and ready to take over. Stay tuned to Beyond London’s Underground for more on AV and the next wave of UK rap talent.
Follow AV’s journey and watch the rise of a star who’s rewriting the rules and inspiring a generation.