It seems football legend Benni McCarthy has a softer side when it comes to music —and it’s all thanks to the late Kiernan Forbes, better known as AKA.

The two legends shared a unique bond that went beyond their professions, rooted in mutual respect, shared passions, and a whole lot of Mzansi pride.

Back in 1998, McCarthy made an unexpected foray into music, collaborating with kwaito superstars TKZee on “Shibobo”, a track that became a South African anthem.

But while McCarthy traded the mic for the pitch, AKA was the only person who could have tempted him to return to music.

Reflecting on their connection during an interview on 5 Breakfast with 5FM, McCarthy admitted: “The only person who could have probably got me back into music or doing anything [in music] was the late AKA.

“He was someone really special. We had a bond so we would always be in contact.”

AKA wasn’t shy about showing love either. In 2022, he playfully announced on X (formerly Twitter), “That’s it … I’ve decided. I’m getting a BENNI MCARTHY tat ….” And this wasn’t just fan talk.

That’s it … I’ve decided. I’m getting a BENNI MCARTHY tat ….
— AKA (@akaworldwide) August 12, 2022

In another post, @akaworldwide wrote: “Hit me up if you need an assistant @bennimccarthy17… My GOAT 🐐“

AKA often celebrated McCarthy’s achievements, especially his rise as a coach for Manchester United, and drew creative inspiration from him, even sampling McCarthy's “Shibobo” for his hit, “Fela In Versace”.

Hit me up if you need an assistant @bennimccarthy17 … My GOAT 🐐 pic.twitter.com/QEbUSNadtE
— AKA (@akaworldwide) July 30, 2022

Tragically, AKA’s life was cut short in February 2023, leaving McCarthy devastated. Taking to Instagram, McCarthy wrote: “I’m absolutely heartbroken to hear of the passing of my bro Kiernan Forbes AKA. My condolences to Kiernan’s family and little girl. RIP Young King.”

In his recent interview, McCarthy added: “I was completely devastated when I found out what happened. I don’t think there’s a person in the music industry who can convince me [to get back into music]. If I were to do anything, it would have been with Kiernan.”