10 SA Rappers With Their Own Labels
10 SA Rappers With Their Own Labels. South African hip hop has been vibrant in the SA music scene over the years with top-charting music, but beyond the infectious beats and lyrical prowess, a new wave of rappers are taking control of their destinies by launching their own imprints.
These independent hustlers are not just dropping fire tracks, they’re building empires, one step at a time.
Emtee – Emtee Records
After enduring a challenging stint with Ambitious Entertainment, Emtee embarked on a journey of self-discovery and independence as an artist. Yet, his ambitions soared beyond mere solo success. With the audacity to dream big, the renowned rapper boldly established his record label, beckoning talented artists to join his musical family. Right now, Emtee Records houses 3 artists with more to come in the future.
Nasty C – Tall Racks Records
Rising to international acclaim, Nasty C has not only conquered the charts but also launched his own label, Tall Racks Records. With a focus on nurturing raw talent and pushing creative boundaries, Nasty C is empowering the next generation of African artists to make their mark on the global stage.
A-Reece – Revenge Club Records
Facing a parallel journey to Emtee, A-Reece weathered turbulent times during his stint at Ambitiouz Entertainment, emerging wiser and more resilient. Harnessing the lessons learned, he embarked on a new chapter, teaming up with his brother to spearhead the inception of Revenge Club Records.
Since its inception, the record label has soared to remarkable heights, consistently delivering a myriad of music projects. A-Reece, Jay Jody, and DJ Clen have all contributed to the label’s success, releasing chart-topping bodies of work that resonate with SA Hip Hop audiences.
Maalome Vector – The Whole Time Entertainment
While Ambitiouz Entertainment has garnered a reputation as the antagonist of the music industry in terms of artist treatment, paradoxically, its shortcomings have catalyzed the unleashed potential of many South African rappers. Malome Vector is just one example of an artist who, having experienced the label’s mistreatment, seized the opportunity to forge his path. His departure led to the birth of The Whole Time Entertainment, a platform that not only represents his resilience but also stands as a testament to the transformative power of adversity.
Big Zulu – Inkabi Records
Describing the artists of Inkabi Records as his kin, Big Zulu has consistently upheld the principle of avoiding the pitfalls of mistreatment that plague many other record labels. Instead, he fosters an environment akin to family within Inkabi Records, where mutual support and solidarity prevail. Under his guidance, the label functions as a tightly-knit unit, each member looking out for the welfare of one another, thus cultivating a culture of collaboration and respect that transcends the typical artist-label dynamic. That has been evident in the music that has been coming out from Inkabi Records.
Intaba Yase Dubai – 3.7 Entertainment
Intaba Yase Dubai, renowned for his smash hit “Imali Eningi,” stands as another casualty of Ambitiouz Entertainment’s turbulent reign. However, rather than succumbing to adversity, he chose to carve his path forward. Departing from the aforementioned label, he founded 3.7 Entertainment, drawing inspiration from the meagre monthly salary he once received during his tenure at Ambitiouz Entertainment. This new venture not only signifies his emancipation from past hardships but also serves as a testament to his resilience and determination to thrive independently in the music industry.
Kwesta – Raplyf
Raplyf isn’t just a record label, it’s a movement that championed fresh sounds and nurtured local talent, giving a platform to artists who dared to be different. With Kwesta’s own success as fuel, RapLyf pushed boundaries and redefined South African hip-hop.
K.O – SkhandaWorld
K.O.’s SkhandaWorld isn’t just a label, it’s a movement. SkhandaWorld aspires to be a hub for fresh talent and seasoned artists alike. Think of it as a creative incubator, blending Kwaito’s energy with hip-hop’s flow to forge a unique “Skhanda sound.”
SkhandaWorld has seen its share of successes, launching the careers of artists like Roiii and Loki. But it’s not afraid to evolve. K.O. actively let go of all the artists who were under his record label.
Khuli Chana – MyThrone
Khuli Chana isn’t just a king of South African hip hop, he’s building his own royal court. MyThrone Records is Khuli’s imprint, aiming to be a throne for talented newcomers. First up in the line of succession was Maglera Doe Boy, a rising star mentored by Khuli himself. Together, they’ve released music that breaks down barriers and pushes boundaries, taking Mzansi rap global.
Cassper Nyovest – Family Tree
In 2014, Cassper Nyovest, a young South African hip-hop force at the time, decided to branch out and plant his own roots. Thus, Family Tree Records sprouted. This independent label, nurtured by Cassper himself (the CEO), has blossomed into a vibrant hub for local talent.
