10 SA Rappers With Many Songs Over 1 Million YouTube Views
10 SA Rappers With Many Songs Over 1 Million YouTube Views. South African hip-hop continues to be a force to be reckoned with, not just on local airwaves but on the global stage. YouTube has become a breeding ground for SA rappers to showcase their talent and amass dedicated fanbases.
Here, we celebrate 10 Mzansi rappers who’ve dropped hits that have racked up over 1 million views on YouTube, proving their dominance in the digital age.
- Nasty C – 29 Songs
At the forefront stands the lyrical virtuoso Nasty C, who has garnered a substantial following since leaving his indelible mark on South African Hip Hop. His remarkable mastery of wordplay and storytelling shines through in a slew of hits such as “Strings & Bling” and “Jungle,” each amassing millions of views.
2. AKA – 20 Songs
The Supa Mega has consistently delivered music that embodies South African culture, fostering a powerful connection between himself, his devoted fans – The Megacy, and the vibrant SA Hip Hop scene. Even after his passing, the esteemed rapper left behind a legacy of timeless tracks that continue to thrive on leading streaming platforms. Notably, “Company” from his posthumous album has amassed over 5 million views.
3. Sjava – 20 Songs
Sjava has won many hearts due to his ability to create music that relates to the people in his community and Mzansi at large. mixes African pop, hip-hop, and contemporary R&B to create a sound that’s both soulful and experimental.
Sjava’s music is also influenced by traditional South African music styles, like maskandi and isicathamiya. Songs like “Umama” and “Iqhawe” amongst others have demonstrated the rapper’s distinctly African feel, while still appealing to fans of modern R&B and hip hop.
4. Emtee – 18 Songs
Despite facing his fair share of struggles in the music industry, Emtee continues to thrive, driven by his passion for music and his strong connection with his fans. Despite challenges and past sabotage from his former record label, Emtee remains relevant, evident in the fact that 18 of his songs have surpassed the 1 million YouTube views threshold. This achievement underscores his enduring significance and resilience throughout the years.
Not only has the rapper collaborated with local artists, but he has also drawn the attention of top African talents, including Tiwa Savage and others.
5. Cassper – 15 Songs
Cassper Nyovest not only demonstrates unparalleled hustle in South African hip-hop but also maintains his relevance through his music. From celebratory tracks like “Good For That” showcasing his success and opulent lifestyle, to addressing rivals in “4 Steps Back,” and exploring themes of love in “Baby Girl,” his diverse range of songs resonates with audiences. The famed rapper’s versatility is reflected in the impressive number of views his tracks garner on YouTube.
6. Kwesta – 14 Songs
Kwesta’s rap career is a climb to the top, marked by award-winning success and music videos that reflect his journey. From early battle rap victories to topping charts with albums like “DaKAR II,” Kwesta has won many hearts in the SA music space. His music videos, like the hit “Ngud’,” often showcase his township roots and celebrate his rise to fame.
7. A-Reece – 10 Songs
Whoever claimed fans don’t rally to support their favourite rappers clearly hasn’t witnessed the fervent dedication of A-Reece’s fanbase. They stand unwaveringly by his side, championing his career at every turn. This steadfast support extends to his music, as evidenced by the remarkable success of his music videos and their views on YouTube.
Music videos like “Meanwhile In Honeydew” and “Holding Hands” have experienced a remarkable surge in popularity on YouTube, accumulating over 2 million views over the years.
8. Big Zulu – 9 Songs
Transitioning from a taxi driver to amassing millions of views on YouTube through his music, Big Zulu’s ascent in the music industry has been nothing short of extraordinary. The release of his album “Ichwane Lenyoka” which featured the smash hit “Mali Eningi” marked the beginning of extraordinary things for the Inkabi Records boss.
The hit track featuring the late Riky Rick and Intaba Yase Dubai racked up over 17 Million views on YouTube marking the beginning of greater things for the rapper. “Imali Eningi” is also accompanied by “Inhlupheko” and “Umuzi eSandton” as some of the rapper’s top performing songs on YouTube.
9. Blxckie – 9 Songs
Blxckie’s ability to merge his smooth R&B and rap has won him many hearts in the SA music space. His music blends hip-hop with a soulful touch, often exploring themes of love, relationships, and perseverance. Blxckie has collaborated with various South African artists and even has a recent track with Bas alongside A$AP Ferg, showcasing his growing international recognition.
10. K.O – 7 Songs
SA Hip Hop has amassed a lot of veteran rappers but it takes consistency to be at the same level as K.O. The rapper has remained relevant in the game by making use of his ability to evolve in the ever-changing world of music. From Teargas, and CashTime to Skhanda World, the rapper’s career has been amassed by a string of successful music accompanied by hard-hitting lyrics and braggadocious style.
