5 Most Watched SA Hip Hop Music Videos Of All Time
5 Most Watched SA Hip Hop Music Videos Of All Time. The South African hip-hop scene has consistently produced visually captivating and creatively directed music videos that have left a lasting impact on both local and international audiences. From storytelling to high-quality production, these videos showcase the growth and influence of SA hip-hop.
Here, we count down the top five most-watched SA hip-hop music videos on YouTube, reflecting not only their viewership numbers but the cultural significance they’ve achieved over the years.
1. Nasty C – “SMA” featuring Rowlene
- Views: 51 million+
- Director: Kyle White
- Album: Strings and Bling (2018)
- Key Features: Emotionally driven narrative, gripping cinematography
“SMA” is a fan-favourite collaboration between Nasty C and singer Rowlene. Directed by Kyle White, the video captures a storyline of young love complicated by heartbreak and regret. The vivid and emotionally charged scenes connect deeply with viewers, making it the most-watched SA hip-hop music video to date. Nasty C’s raw lyricism paired with Rowlene’s soulful voice resonates with audiences, as it reflects real-life relationships and their complexities. The massive success of “SMA” is a testament to how storytelling, when paired with relatable themes, can strike a universal chord.
2. Emtee – “Roll Up (ReUp)”
- Views: 16 million+
- Director: Ofentse Mwase
- Album: Avery (2015)
- Key Features: Stylish visuals, breakthrough track
“Roll Up” by Emtee introduced a new voice to SA hip hop when it dropped in 2015. Known for its smooth flow and catchy hook, the video reflects Emtee’s journey from the streets to stardom. Directed by Ofentse Mwase, the visuals highlight Emtee’s charisma and the lifestyle he aspired to, resonating with young fans.
Featuring AKA and Wizkid, “Roll Up” not only amassed millions of views but also cemented Emtee’s place in the industry. The song remains a significant song, remembered for its influence on a new generation of SA hip hop.
3. Kwesta – “Ngud'” featuring Cassper Nyovest
- Views: 15 million+
- Director: Uprooted Media
- Album: DaKAR II (2016)
- Key Features: Township vibe, relatable visuals
Kwesta’s “Ngud’,” featuring Cassper Nyovest, is an anthem that resonates with everyday South Africans. Shot in both the township and suburbian setting, the music video pays homage to the roots of hip-hop in South Africa and showcases the vibrancy of the local culture.
Directed by Uprooted Media, it captures a day in the life of the community, with scenes that show Kwesta and Cassper celebrating with friends and neighbours. The song’s success was a massive win for local hip-hop, and its relatability helped the video gather millions of views, making it a mainstay in SA hip-hop history.
4. Cassper – “Baby Girl”
- Views: 14 million+
- Director: BLXCKWORKX
- Album: Thuto (2017)
- Key Features: Romantic vibes, Visual Aesthetics
The music video for Cassper Nyovest’s song “Baby Girl” revolves around themes of love, admiration, and celebration of romantic relationships. Set in vibrant urban backdrops, the visuals portray Cassper as he expresses affection and devotion to his significant other. The video features lively scenes of joy, connection, and shared moments, emphasizing the importance of cherishing one’s partner.
With its catchy beats and heartfelt lyrics, “Baby Girl” captures the essence of youthful love and the excitement that comes with it, showcasing a blend of romance and fun that resonates with audiences. Overall, the video highlights the beauty of relationships and the joy found in celebrating love.
5. AKA – “Lemons Lemonade”
- Views: 8 million+
- Director: Nate Thomas
- Album: Mass Country (2023)
- Key Features: Resilience and Positivity, Visual Aesthetics
The music video for AKA’s “Lemons (Lemonade)” features a vibrant and colourful aesthetic that reflects the song’s upbeat and confident themes. The video visually captures the essence of resilience and positivity, using the metaphor of turning lemons into lemonade to symbolize overcoming challenges and making the best of difficult situations
Set against a backdrop of urban life, the visuals showcase a variety of lively scenes, including playful interactions, stylish outfits, and dynamic choreography. Throughout the video, there is a strong sense of celebration and empowerment, as AKA expresses his journey and triumphs in the face of adversity.
