KO KELLY
Hailing from the heart of Houston and now based in Olympic City, USA, KO Kelly is a force in Colorado Hip-hop whose story is one of resilience, transformation, and triumph. Escaping the grip of a troubled past and a lengthy prison sentence, KO turned his pain into purpose, using music as both a lifeline and a megaphone. His breakout 2022 debut mixtape, Refugee, introduced the world to a raw, unfiltered voice that spoke truth with urgency.
In 2024, KO delivered American Gangster, a gripping and unapologetic EP that earned GRAMMY consideration and cemented his status as a local legend in the Colorado rap scene. Industry heavyweights like Usher, Timbaland, and Tobe Nwigwe took notice, giving KO co-signs that helped propel his voice into a national spotlight. That momentum carried into the release of “Sidequest,” a powerful collaboration with triple-threat artist/producer/songwriter Merch. The single secured KO a distribution deal with Roc Nation and became a regional smash across Rocky Mountain radio. Adding to its impact, “Sidequest” landed a coveted placement in Grand Theft Auto VI, one of the most anticipated video games of the decade.
MORE THAN JUST AN ARTIST
KO Kelly is a mentor and pillar of his community. As the leader of School of Rap, a youth music initiative at Community Prep School, KO helps young artists find their voice through lyrical expression and personal growth. In 2024, the group partnered with Anthem Music Enterprises to release School of Rap, Vol. 1, a debut album that earned its own distribution deal through Roc Nation via Money Gang Entertainment. The emotional closing track, “Survivor’s Guilt,” honors the life of student Miguel "Smalls" Romero, whose legacy lives on through his voice on the song and the movement it inspired. Another standout track, “Drip,” has since been featured on NBA 2K26, expanding the reach of KO and his students’ message to a global audience.
KO Kelly’s momentum shows no signs of slowing. With performances opening for major acts like Finesse 2tymes, Post Malone, and Phora, he continues to make waves on stages big and small, bringing Olympic City with him every step of the way. Gritty, gifted, and grounded in purpose, KO Kelly is more than an artist—he’s a movement.
