The biography of Leslie Jonathan Mampe Jr., better known by his stage name Da L.E.S, is a South African-American hip hop recording artist and record producer. He gained early recognition as a member of the band Jozi and is most renowned for his solo single “Heaven,” released in 2013, featuring AKA and Maggz.
Early Life and Music Career
Da L.E.S was born on July 26, 1985, in Washington D.C., United States, to South African parents. His father, Leslie Jonathan Mampe Sr., worked as an IT specialist at IBM, and his mother is Priscilla. Growing up in the U.S., Da L.E.S discovered his musical talents while surrounded by his father’s extensive collection of LPs and lively parties. His unique style ushered in a new era of rap characterized by a cool kid demeanor and college swag aesthetic. He played a significant role in popularizing the Ama Kip Kip brand through his music videos, and during that period, many South Africans embraced AKK fashion and danced to Muthaland Crunk. Creative-HipHop’s editor-in-chief, Paperman, even named him the most influential African rapper of all time, as his impact extended across music, clothing, and lifestyle.
Television and Personal Life
In 2014, Da L.E.S starred in the South African television series “The Real Jozi A-Listers,” portraying a fictionalized version of himself alongside media personality Maps Maponyane. On a personal note, he welcomed the birth of his daughter, with South African hip hop artist AKA serving as her godfather. In return, Da L.E.S is the godfather to AKA’s daughter.
Discography
Da L.E.S has released several studio albums, each contributing to his musical legacy:
- Fresh 2 Def (2008): His debut album under the label Ghetto Ruff.
- Mandela Money (2014): Released on July 4, 2014, under Fresh 2 Def and Sony Music Entertainment Africa.
- North God (2015): Released on November 27, 2015, also under Fresh 2 Def and Sony Music Entertainment Africa.
- Diamond in Africa (2016): Released on December 9, 2016, available for digital download.
- F2D Presents: Hall of Fame (2017): Released on March 10, 2017, under Fresh 2 Def.
- High Level (2017): Released on September 29, 2017, available in CD and digital download formats.
- Caution To The Wild (2020): Released on November 27, 2020, available in CD and digital download/streaming formats.
Notable Singles
Here are some of Da L.E.S’s notable singles:
- “Heaven” (2013): Featuring AKA and Maggz.
- “Up to Something” (2016): From the album “Diamond in Africa.”
- “Popular Demand” (2017): Featured in the album “High Level.”
- Collaborations with other artists, including Khuli Chana, DJ Milkshake, AKA, Pascal & Pearce, DJ Speedsta, and more.
His impact on African hip-hop remains significant, making him a trailblazer across continents and genre.
Da L.E.S hospitalised after suffering stroke
South African rapper Da Les, real name Leslie Jonathan Mampe Jr, was hospitalised after suffering from a stroke on his 39th birthday. In the short statement released on Sunday afternoon, the Mampe family promised to update fans on the musician’s medical condition after he was hospitalised on Friday 26 July 2024.