Ninja

Biography

Ninja, born Watkin Tudor Jones on 26 September 1974, is a South African rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, performance artist, and occasional actor. He is best known as the frontman of the avant‑garde hip‑hop group Die Antwoord, which brought international attention to South African counterculture through its bold visuals, music, and performances.

Early Life and Beginnings

Watkin Tudor Jones was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he later attended Parktown Boys’ High School. From an early age, he was drawn to music and creative expression, eventually entering the South African music scene in the early 1990s. Jones experimented with different musical projects and personas before achieving widespread success, demonstrating an early flair for reinvention and artistic diversity.

Career in Music

Before adopting the Ninja persona, Jones was involved in several music acts, including The Original Evergreen, Max Normal, and The Constructus Corporation. These early projects combined elements of hip‑hop, electronic music, and experimental art, laying the groundwork for his later success.

Ninja’s biggest breakthrough came with the formation of Die Antwoord in 2008, alongside fellow artist Yolandi Visser. The duo — known for their unconventional blend of hip‑hop and rave music, tied closely to South African zef counterculture — quickly gained international popularity. Their viral music video for “Enter the Ninja” helped propel them to global recognition.

Die Antwoord’s music stands out for its gritty beats, catchy hooks, and often provocative lyrics. The group has released multiple albums and maintained a strong global following, touring internationally and attracting attention for their theatrical performances and striking visuals.

Acting and Other Work

In addition to music, Ninja has appeared in film roles, most notably portraying a version of himself in Chappie (2015), a science‑fiction movie directed by Neill Blomkamp. His participation in film further showcased his multimedia artistic range beyond music.

Personal Life

Ninja’s personal life has often intersected with his creative work. He has worked closely with Yolandi Visser for many years — both professionally and personally — and the pair share a daughter. Their long‑term collaboration has been central to the identity and success of Die Antwoord.