7 Richest Rappers In South Africa: Biography And Net Worth

South Africa's rap scene is one of the most vibrant on the African continent, with artists who have successfully combined local sounds with global hip-hop influences. Over the past decade, South African rappers have made waves internationally and amassed significant wealth through music, endorsements, and business ventures. Here’s a look at the top 7 richest rappers in South Africa, their biographies, and their net worth.

1. AKA

Net Worth: $12 million

Biography: Born Kiernan Jarryd Forbes on January 28, 1988, AKA was one of South Africa’s most successful rappers. He first gained recognition with his debut album Altar Ego in 2011, featuring hits like Victory Lap and I Want It All. AKA’s unique blend of rap with South African sounds earned him a huge fanbase and international recognition. Over the years, he has released several hit albums, including Levels and Touch My Blood. He has also collaborated with international artists like Burna Boy and Diamond Platnumz. Aside from music, AKA is a savvy businessman with endorsement deals from brands like Reebok and Cruz Vodka.

Career Achievements: AKA has won multiple South African Music Awards (SAMAs) and MTV Africa Music Awards. His influence extends beyond music into fashion and entrepreneurship, making him one of the richest rappers in South Africa.

2. Cassper Nyovest

Net Worth: $10 million

Biography: Refiloe Maele Phoolo, better known as Cassper Nyovest, was born on December 16, 1990, in Mafikeng, South Africa. Cassper rose to prominence in 2014 with his debut album Tsholofelo, which featured hits like Doc Shebeleza and Gusheshe. Known for his energetic performances and larger-than-life persona, Cassper has established himself as one of South Africa’s top rappers. He made history by filling up The Dome in Johannesburg, one of the country’s largest venues, a feat that few South African artists have achieved.

Career Achievements: Cassper has won numerous awards, including SAMAs and Metro FM Awards. He is also a businessman, with his own sneaker line in collaboration with Drip Footwear and several endorsement deals, including with Ciroc and Samsung.

3. Nasty C

Net Worth: $3 million

Biography: Nsikayesizwe David Junior Ngcobo, popularly known as Nasty C, was born on February 11, 1997, in Durban, South Africa. He burst onto the scene with his debut mixtape Price City in 2015, and his breakout single Juice Back gained him widespread attention. Nasty C is known for his smooth flow and ability to effortlessly switch between English and Zulu in his raps. His album Strings and Bling solidified his place as one of Africa’s leading rappers, and he has since gained international recognition with collaborations with T.I., Ari Lennox, and Major Lazer.

Career Achievements: Nasty C has won numerous accolades, including several South African Hip Hop Awards. He has also signed with Def Jam Recordings, making him one of the few African artists with a major international label deal.

4. Khuli Chana

Net Worth: $2 million

Biography: Khulane Morule, better known as Khuli Chana, was born on August 27, 1982. Khuli Chana is a veteran in the South African rap scene and is known for pioneering the Motswako genre, which blends rap with local South African languages like Setswana. His debut album Motswakoriginator in 2009 earned him widespread acclaim, and he has since released several successful projects. His unique style and ability to blend African sounds with rap have made him a legend in the industry.

Career Achievements: Khuli Chana has won multiple awards, including SAMAs and Channel O Music Video Awards. He is also a successful entrepreneur and has worked with brands like Absolut Vodka.

5. Riky Rick

Net Worth: $2 million

Biography: Born Rikhado Makhado on July 20, 1987, in KwaMashu, Riky Rick was a talented rapper, songwriter, and fashion icon before his untimely death in 2022. Riky Rick gained fame with his debut album Family Values, which included the smash hit Boss Zonke. His music was known for its blend of South African street culture and hip-hop, and he often incorporated elements of kwaito into his sound. Beyond music, Riky Rick was a trendsetter in fashion and founded Cotton Club Records.

Career Achievements: Riky Rick’s contributions to South African music were recognized with multiple awards, and he was a cultural icon who helped shape the modern South African rap scene. His work in fashion and entrepreneurship added to his legacy, making him one of the richest rappers in South Africa.

6. Emtee

Net Worth: $1.5 million

Biography: Mthembeni Ndevu, known as Emtee, was born on September 17, 1992, in Matatiele, South Africa. Emtee burst onto the scene with his debut single Roll Up in 2015, which became a massive hit. His debut album Avery was equally successful and earned him several awards. Emtee is known for his trap-style rap, and his ability to tell personal stories in his music has resonated with fans across the country.

Career Achievements: Emtee has won several South African Music Awards, and despite facing challenges in his career, he continues to release hit songs. He is also the founder of his own record label, Emtee Records.

7. K.O

Net Worth: $1 million

Biography: Ntokozo Mdluli, popularly known as K.O, was born on October 13, 1980, in Soweto, South Africa. He gained fame as a member of the rap group Teargas before embarking on a successful solo career. His debut solo album Skhanda Republic was a game-changer, popularizing the “skhanda rap” sound, which fuses kwaito and hip-hop. K.O has continued to stay relevant in the industry, with hit singles like Caracara and Supa Dupa.

Career Achievements: K.O has won multiple awards, including the MTV Africa Music Award. He is also a successful businessman, with his clothing line Skhanda World contributing to his net worth.

Conclusion

South Africa's rap scene is home to some of the wealthiest and most influential artists on the continent. From AKA’s international collaborations to Cassper Nyovest’s entrepreneurial ventures and Nasty C’s global appeal, these rappers have proven that South African hip-hop is a force to be reckoned with. Their wealth and success reflect not only their musical talent but also their business acumen and ability to stay relevant in an ever-evolving industry.