In a resounding celebration of South African hip hop’s rich history, Apple Music recently honoured a half-century of beats, rhymes, and culture in their Hip Hop DNA series. From the politically charged rhymes of 90s Capetonian groups like Prophets of Da City (POC) and Black Noise to the chart-topping hits of the mid-2010s, the journey of South African hip hop is a testament to its evolution, resilience, and influence on the global stage.
The Origins: 90s Capetonian Groups Pave the Way
The 90s witnessed the emergence of Capetonian groups like Prophets of Da City (POC) and Black Noise, whose rhymes were not just lyrics but powerful statements steeped in politics and societal commentary. These pioneers set the stage for a genre that would become a powerful voice for social change and artistic expression.
As the new millennium unfolded, South African hip-hop saw a wave of artists achieving radio success. Acts like Skwatta Kamp, PRO, and Teargas brought a fresh sound to the airwaves, blending local influences with global hip-hop elements. Their impact paved the way for a new era of artists to explore and redefine the genre.
This is also the era when hip-hop pioneer, HHP, introduced Motswako, a genre characterised by Tswana lyrics and versatile production styles. Meaning “mixture” or “blend,” Motswako became a cultural force, demonstrating the genre’s adaptability and ability to fuse different musical elements seamlessly.
Golden Age of Hip Hop: Mid-2010s Hits the Airwaves
The mid-2010s marked the “Golden Age” of South African hip hop, with the genre becoming a mainstream fixture in South African music and chart-topping hits becoming anthems of a generation. K.O’s (Caracara), Cassper Nyovest (Doc Shebeleza), and Kwesta (Ngud’) became household names, defining a period where hip hop dominated the mainstream. A significant milestone was AKA’s “Levels,” being the first album by an English-speaking rapper to achieve platinum status.
Next Gen: A New Wave of Talent Emerges
The next generation of South African hip-hop artists has continued to push boundaries and redefine the genre. Kasi-trap, a sub-genre combining elements of hip-hop and trap with a distinctive South African flair, has gained prominence. Rappers like Dee Koala, Bravo Le Roux, Holy Alpha (from Cape Town), and 25K, Loatinover Pounds, Buzzi Lee, Wordz (from Pretoria) have emerged as voices representing the streets, using their lyrics to tell relatable township stories.
In the ever-evolving landscape of South African hip hop, other acts such as Blxckie and Lucas Raps stand out as prominent figures of the new wave. Their unique styles and boundary-pushing sounds contribute to the genre’s continual growth, adding fresh perspectives to the rich tapestry of South African hip hop.
In the landscape of South African hip hop, the Hip Hop DNA series by Apple Music serves as a testament to the genre’s enduring legacy. From its humble beginnings in the politically charged 90s to the chart-topping hits of the mid-2010s and the emergence of a vibrant new generation, South African hip hop continues to evolve, making its mark on the global stage. As we celebrate this half-century milestone, the beats and rhymes of South African hip-hop remain a powerful force, resonating with diverse audiences and telling the stories of a nation through the rhythm of its streets.
