Quick Profile Facts
FROM LUSAKA TO AFRICA'S CROWN
Born on 14 June 1989 and based in Lusaka, Zambia, Cleo Ice Queen stands as one of the most transformative and iconic voices in modern Southern African urban music and contemporary broadcasting.
Growing up in Lusaka with an insatiable passion for rhythm, poetry, and performance, Cleo began writing and rapping in her teenage years. At a time when the Zambian hip-hop landscape was heavily male-dominated, her sharp flow, multilingual wordplay (blending English, Bemba, and street dialect), and undeniable charisma commanded instant respect.
Big Brother Africa Season 8 (The Chase, 2013)
In 2013, Cleo stepped onto Africa's grandest television stage representing Zambia in Big Brother Africa Season 8: The Chase. Her poise, strategic brilliance, and warm authenticity captured hearts across 54 countries, propelling her to the grand finale where she finished as continental runner-up. The show cemented Cleo Ice Queen as a household name from Cape to Cairo.
FLAGSHIP MASTERPIECE: "I AM HER" & MUSICAL REIGN
In July 2025, Cleo Ice Queen unleashed her career-defining 3rd studio album, "I AM HER". An 11-track triumph of identity, resilience, and female sovereignty, the project serves as a passionate anthem for women across the continent. Featuring high-profile collaborations with Yo Maps, Sizwe Alakine, Gigi Lamayne, Slap Dee, Jae Cash, Caitlin De Ville, and James Sakala, "I AM HER" solidified Cleo's status at the pinnacle of African hip-hop royalty.
Her discography is anchored by her revolutionary 2016 debut album "Geminice" (a 14-track duality of lyrical soul and explosive club bangers), alongside immortal hit anthems such as "Soldier" produced by Kekero, "Big Dreams" featuring JK, and her historic Coke Studio Africa anthem "Simunye".
TELEVISION HOSTING & BROADCASTING
Beyond the recording booth, Cleo transitioned seamlessly into premier television hosting. She became the beloved anchor of SuperSport's popular football magazine show "Bola Yapa Zed", bringing flair, deep sport insight, and vibrant energy to Zambian soccer audiences across the continent. Her natural screen presence has made her a premier host for major award shows, red carpets, and national galas.
MILESTONES & ACHIEVEMENTS
Born in Lusaka, Zambia
Born on June 14, nurturing an early passion in Lusaka for music, performing arts, and media.
Big Brother Africa Runner-Up
Became a continental icon on BBA Season 8: The Chase, finishing as 1st Runner-Up after 91 days of broadcast.
Coke Studio Africa & "Geminice" Album
Selected as the first Zambian artist for Coke Studio Africa Season 2 (recording "Simunye"); released the historic 14-track debut album Geminice.
SuperSport "Bola Yapa Zed" & Hit Singles
Hosted the Zambian football showcase on SuperSport while dropping national anthems like "Soldier" (prod. Kekero).
AFRIMMA Award: Best Female Rapper
Won Best Female Rapper Southern Africa at the African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) in Dallas, USA.
AFRIMA Crown & Def Jam Africa Era
Crowned Best Female Artiste Southern Africa at AFRIMA; expanding IceyGang Entertainment and releasing international collaborations.
"I AM HER" The Album (Main Highlight)
Released her acclaimed 3rd studio album "I AM HER" featuring Yo Maps, Sizwe Alakine, and Gigi Lamayne — an empowering continental anthem for women.