Cleo Ice Queen Biography

Clementina Mulenga, professionally known as Cleo Ice Queen, is a Zambian rapper, singer, songwriter, model, entrepreneur, and television personality. She is widely regarded as one of Zambia’s most successful female hip-hop artists and has played a major role in promoting Zambian rap across Africa through her music, television appearances, and international collaborations.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Clementina Mulenga
• Stage Name: Cleo Ice Queen
• Date of Birth: June 14, 1989
• Birthplace: Lusaka, Zambia
• Nationality: Zambian
• Occupation: Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Model, Entrepreneur, TV Personality
• Genres: Hip-Hop, Afro-pop, Dancehall
• Years Active: 2011–Present
• Record Label: Def Jam
• Spouse: Kalale “Kaladoshas” Masengu
• Children: Three

Early Life

Born and raised in Lusaka, Cleo Ice Queen developed a passion for hip-hop at the age of six. She began entertaining family and friends from a young age and recorded her first song, “Hands Up,” when she was just 16 years old after gaining access to a recording studio at Banani International School.

Her stage name, Ice Queen, was inspired by her love for jewelry, commonly referred to as “ice” in hip-hop culture.

Besides music, Cleo has pursued higher education, earning a Certificate in Digital Marketing from the University of Zambia (UNZA) and later studying for a Marketing Degree at the University of Lusaka (UNILUS).

Music Career

Cleo officially launched her professional music career in 2011 before breaking into the mainstream with the hit single “Big Dreams” featuring JK in 2012.

She gained international attention after appearing on the remix of Khuli Chana’s “Tswa Daar”, alongside African stars including Ice Prince, AKA, Navio, Maggz, and Reason.

In 2016, Cleo released her debut album Geminice, a 14-track project inspired by her Gemini zodiac sign. The album featured fan favorites such as Turn Up, Addicted, and Autobahn.

She later released Leaders of the New School in 2020, further cementing her status as one of Zambia’s leading female rappers. Her signing with Def Jam Africa expanded her reach to a wider international audience.

Television Career

Cleo rose to continental fame in 2013 after representing Zambia on Big Brother Africa: The Chase (Season 8). She impressed viewers throughout the competition and finished as the runner-up, becoming one of Zambia’s most recognized television personalities.

She has also hosted Bola Yapa Zed, a football magazine show on SuperSport dedicated to Zambian football news, interviews, and match highlights.

Coke Studio Africa

In 2016, Cleo became the first Zambian artist to feature on Coke Studio Africa. She collaborated with Bucie, Mr Kamera, and other African musicians to create the hit song “Simunye” (We Are One), a celebration of African unity and culture.

Humanitarian Work

Beyond entertainment, Cleo has supported several charitable initiatives and youth empowerment programs.

She has served as:

• Global Citizen Ambassador
• Softcare Brand Ambassador
• Youth empowerment advocate
• Mentor for aspiring female artists

Studio Albums

• Geminice (2016)
• Leaders of the New School (2020)

Popular Songs

• Big Dreams (feat. JK)
• Soldier
• Simunye
• Turn Up
• Addicted
• Autobahn
• Hands Up

Awards & Achievements

Cleo Ice Queen has received numerous local and international awards, including:

• 2015 AFRIMMA – Best Female Artist (Southern Africa) – Winner
• 2017 Kwacha Music Awards – Best Female Artist – Winner
• 2019 Kwacha Music Awards – Best Female Artist – Winner
• 2021 AFRIMMA – Best Female Rapper (Southern Africa) – Winner
• 2022 AFRIMA – Best Female Artist (Southern Africa) – Winner
• 2023 African Entertainment Awards USA – Best Female Artist (Africa) – Winner

Legacy

Cleo Ice Queen has become one of Zambia’s most influential female entertainers. Through her lyrical talent, television career, international collaborations, and advocacy for women and youth, she has helped elevate Zambian hip-hop on the global stage. Her continued success in music, business, and media has established her as a cultural icon and role model for aspiring African artists.