Ricardo Moloi, professionally known as Priddy Ugly, is a South African rapper, songwriter, and record producer celebrated for his lyrical prowess and versatility in hip-hop. Born on April 2, 1992, in Luanda, Angola, he has built a reputation as one of South Africa’s most innovative artists, blending rap with diverse musical influences.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Ricardo Moloi (Priddy Ugly) |
| Date of Birth | April 2, 1992 |
| Place of Birth | Luanda, Angola |
| Nationality | South African |
| Occupations | Rapper, Songwriter, Producer |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1 million |
| Awards | South African Music Awards, SA Hip Hop Awards |
Early Life and Education
Priddy Ugly was born to an Angolan mother, Santa Maria Dumingez, and a South African father, Lebone Moloi. His family relocated to South Africa during his infancy, and he spent his early years in Meadowlands, Soweto, before moving to Kempton Park.
As a teenager, he excelled in athletics and joined the Moroka Swallows Academy, competing for South Africa’s National Athletics youth team.
At age 15, he won the Best Male Dancer award at the St. Peter’s National Dance Tournament. His father introduced him to hip-hop through Tupac’s music during a school project on the Black Panther movement, sparking his passion for rap.
Career
Priddy Ugly began his music journey in 2007 as part of the boy group Krunk Era (later renamed Blaque), which was signed to H.U.G.E Entertainment.
In 2010, he transitioned to a solo career under Aviator Management, releasing several songs featured on The Take Off compilation album. His debut mixtape The Ugly Truth followed in 2012.
In 2015, Priddy Ugly released the mixtape You Don’t Know Me Yet, featuring collaborations with artists like A-Reece and YoungstaCPT.
He signed with Ambitiouz Entertainment in 2017 and released his debut studio album E.G.Y.P.T, which included hits like “Tshela” and “Smogolo.” After parting ways with Ambitiouz Entertainment, he pursued an independent career.
Priddy Ugly co-founded Rick Jade with his wife Bontle Modiselle and released collaborative projects such as G.O.A.T (Glory on Any Territory) (2019) and Lockdown Extended.
In 2021, he joined STAY LOW x GAS as a label executive and released his critically acclaimed album SOIL.
His sixth studio album DUST (2024) became his most successful project to date, surpassing 4 million streams on Spotify within three months and winning Best Hip-Hop Album at the South African Music Awards.
Personal Life
Priddy Ugly is married to Bontle Modiselle Moloi, a renowned dancer and media personality. The couple met in 2009 and tied the knot in an intimate traditional wedding in 2019. They have one daughter together, Afrika Bonita Lerato Moloi.
Priddy Ugly Net Worth
As of 2025, Priddy Ugly’s net worth is estimated at $1 million. His wealth comes from music sales, streaming royalties, live performances, brand endorsements, and his work as a record label executive.
Discography
Studio Albums
- E.G.Y.P.T (2017)
- G.O.A.T (Glory on Any Territory) (2019)
- SOIL (2021)
- DUST (2024)
Mixtapes
- The Ugly Truth (2012)
- You Don’t Know Me Yet (2015)
Collaborative Projects
- Lockdown Extended (2020) – with Rick Jade
Notable Singles
- “Tshela” (2017)
- “Smogolo” (2017)
- “02Hero” featuring Shane Eagle (2017)
- “Look Alike” (2017)
- “30 Minutes To Soweto” (2022)
Awards and Nominations
| Year | Award Ceremony | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | South African Music Awards | Best Hip-Hop Album (DUST) | Won |
| 2022 | South African Hip Hop Awards | Lyricist of the Year | Won |
| 2022 | South African Hip Hop Awards | Mixtape of the Year (MUD) | Nominated |
| 2022 | South African Hip Hop Awards | Best Video (“30 Minutes To Soweto”) | Nominated |
