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• Muna Tengi
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The Best Rappers From South Africa:M

South Africa’s musical landscape is rich, diverse, and incredibly influential on the global stage. From the global success of artists like Black Coffee to the unique sounds of South African jazz, there is no shortage of talent in the country. However, when it comes to hip-hop, South Africa has seen a surge in both local and international recognition, with a new generation of rappers pushing boundaries and establishing the country's place in the global rap scene. This blog post will delve into the best rappers from South Africa, exploring their backgrounds, musical influences, and the significant impact they’ve had on the industry.

1. Nasty C: The New King of South African Hip-Hop

When discussing the best South African rappers, one cannot ignore the meteoric rise of Nasty C. Born Nsikayesizwe David Junior Ngcobo in 1997 in Durban, Nasty C has quickly become one of the most influential figures in African hip-hop. His journey to fame began with the release of his debut mixtape Price City in 2015, which earned him critical acclaim in South Africa. However, it was his subsequent projects that solidified his position as the leading figure in South African hip-hop.

Nasty C’s breakthrough moment came with the release of Bad Hair in 2016, which featured the hit singles "Hell Naw" and "Juice Back." The mixtape showcased his versatile style, blending a mix of trap, conscious rap, and smooth flows with sharp lyricism. His smooth delivery, poetic lines, and ability to tackle personal and social issues with ease have made him a favorite not only in South Africa but across the African continent.

His international success further elevated his status. In 2019, Nasty C signed a deal with Def Jam Africa, an achievement that demonstrated his growing influence in the global hip-hop scene. His album Zulu Man With Some Power (2020) was another milestone in his career, featuring collaborations with major international artists like T.I., Ari Lennox, and Lil Gotit. The album’s fusion of hip-hop, African rhythms, and global sounds showcases his unique ability to blend local culture with international appeal.

Nasty C is not just a rapper but a cultural ambassador who embodies the spirit of modern South African youth—ambitious, talented, and willing to push the boundaries of what South African music can achieve.

2. Cassper Nyovest: The Pioneer of South African Hip-Hop’s Mainstream Success

No list of the best South African rappers would be complete without Cassper Nyovest, a figure who has arguably done more than anyone to push South African hip-hop into the mainstream. Born Refiloe Maele Phoolo in 1990, Cassper’s rise to prominence in the South African rap scene is both a story of raw talent and business acumen.

Cassper’s early career was marked by his release of Tsholofelo in 2014, an album that introduced him to a wider audience with hits like "Gusheshe" and "Doc Shebeleza." His unique style, which blends traditional hip-hop with African influences, along with his larger-than-life personality, helped him stand out in a highly competitive industry.

In 2015, Cassper Nyovest made history by becoming the first South African artist to fill up the 20,000-seat Ticketpro Dome for a concert, an achievement that demonstrated the immense popularity of South African hip-hop. His album Thuto (2017) solidified his place at the top of the South African hip-hop scene, with tracks like "Tito Mboweni" and "Move for Me" gaining massive airplay.

Cassper is also known for his entrepreneurial ventures, including his endorsement deals, business ventures, and his own record label, Family Tree Records. His ability to blend music with business has made him one of South Africa’s most successful and influential hip-hop artists.

3. AKA: The Super Mega of South African Hip-Hop

AKA (real name Kiernan Jarryd Forbes) is undoubtedly one of South Africa’s most iconic and influential rappers. Born in Cape Town in 1988, AKA’s career has been marked by controversy, success, and an unyielding passion for his craft. AKA’s impact on the South African hip-hop scene cannot be overstated. His debut album Altar Ego (2011) included the smash hit "Victory Lap," which became an anthem for many young South Africans.

What sets AKA apart from many of his peers is his versatility. While he is known for his trap and contemporary hip-hop sound, he is also able to experiment with different genres, incorporating elements of kwaito, Afrobeat, and even house music into his work. His 2014 album Levels included chart-topping hits like "Congratulate" and "Run Jozi," which earned him national and international recognition.

AKA’s ability to blend hip-hop with South African cultural sounds has set a trend for many of the younger artists coming up today. Furthermore, his collaborations with international artists, such as Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Casanova, have helped cement his position as one of Africa’s top rap exports.

Despite being involved in public feuds and controversies over the years, AKA’s undeniable talent has made him a household name, earning him numerous awards, including several South African Music Awards (SAMAs). His legacy as the "Super Mega" of South African hip-hop is firmly secured.

4. Kwesta: The Storyteller Who Bridges Generations

Kwesta, born Senzo Mfundo Vilakazi in 1988, is another artist whose contributions to South African hip-hop are deeply significant. With his deep, gravelly voice and soulful delivery, Kwesta has earned a reputation as one of the most authentic and influential artists in the game. His music reflects his roots in the streets of Katlehong, a township in Johannesburg, and his ability to weave intricate stories has won him a loyal fanbase.

Kwesta first gained widespread recognition with his debut album Special Rekwest (2007) and later broke into mainstream success with Dakar II (2016). The album featured hits like "Ngud'" and "Spirit," the latter of which featured Nigerian superstar Wale. “Spirit” was particularly significant as it demonstrated Kwesta’s ability to bridge South Africa’s hip-hop scene with the international music landscape.

Kwesta’s success has always been rooted in his authenticity. He doesn’t shy away from talking about the struggles of his upbringing, the state of South African society, and his personal growth as an artist. He’s often credited with helping to reshape South African hip-hop by reintroducing more "real" and "raw" narratives to the genre, connecting with fans on a deeper, more emotional level.

5. Stogie T: The Lyricist and Veteran

Stogie T (born Tumi Molekane) is often considered one of South Africa’s greatest rappers and lyricists. Known for his dense, thought-provoking lyrics and his meticulous approach to rapping, Stogie T’s influence on South African hip-hop cannot be overstated. He is a veteran of the scene, having first gained recognition as part of the hip-hop group Tumi and the Volume, one of the most respected acts in South African hip-hop in the 2000s.

After moving to New York City in the early 2010s, Stogie T reinvented himself as a solo artist, releasing critically acclaimed albums like Stogie T (2016). His music is filled with intricate wordplay and intellectual musings on race, identity, and the human experience. He’s known for his exceptional command of the English language and his ability to make every bar count.

His 2017 track "Let It Flow," featuring Reason, earned him widespread praise, and his collaborative efforts with some of the best in South African hip-hop further cemented his status as a mentor and a leader in the industry.

6. Riky Rick: A Lost Legend

The untimely death of Riky Rick (real name Rikhado Muziwendlovu Makhado) in February 2022 was a massive loss for South African hip-hop and the entire music industry. Known for his unique blend of hip-hop, trap, and South African dance sounds, Riky Rick was an influential figure who helped shape the current landscape of South African music.

Riky Rick’s debut album Family Values (2015) was an instant success, with tracks like "Sidlukotini" and "Amantombazane" dominating the airwaves. His follow-up project, Stay Shining (2018), saw him push his sound into even more experimental territories, creating timeless tracks that blended a mixture of hip-hop, kwaito, and electronic music.

Aside from his musical career, Riky Rick was known for his bold fashion choices, philanthropic work, and his influence on the culture of South African hip-hop. His tragic death left a void in the South African music scene, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists.

7. Reason: The Underrated Genius

Reason (born Sizwe Moeketsi) is often regarded as one of the most underrated rappers in South Africa, but his contributions to the industry are nothing short of remarkable. Known for his introspective lyrics and smooth delivery, Reason first gained attention with his album The Reasoning (2010), which featured hits like "In My Dreams" and "Bumpa."

His versatility allows him to move between traditional hip-hop and more experimental sounds, making him a favorite among fans who appreciate lyrical depth and musical innovation. His 2015 album Love Girls showed his ability to tackle relationship topics while staying true to his rap roots.

Reason’s ability to blend both street sensibilities with more introspective themes has earned him respect from his peers and fans alike.

Conclusion

South Africa’s rap scene is undoubtedly diverse, with each artist bringing something unique to the table. From Nasty C’s international success to Kwesta’s authentic storytelling, the country’s rappers have had a profound impact on the genre, pushing boundaries while staying rooted in local culture. The best rappers from South Africa have not only reshaped the hip-hop landscape but have also used their music as a platform to discuss issues of identity, politics, and social change.

As South African hip-hop continues to evolve, it is clear that the country will remain at the forefront of African music, producing artists who are not only changing the game locally but influencing the global music scene.