South African hip hop has always been an unpredictable, energetic, and highly polarized space. Fans of the genre are vocal, passionate, and deeply connected to their favorite artists, but with that loyalty comes the inevitable rivalry.

In a scene defined by its fierce competitiveness, some rappers become iconic symbols of success, while others find themselves in the crossfire of intense criticism.

This dynamic has given rise to an interesting question: who are the most loved—and most hated—rappers in South African hip hop?

The list of names often brought up in these discussions includes a diverse group of artists, each with their own unique style, following, and, of course, controversies.

From veterans like Emtee and Nasty C to rising stars like LucasRaps, Priddy Ugly, and Blxckie, the landscape of South African rap is as varied as it is exciting.

Let’s break down some of the most polarizing figures in the local scene today and explore why these rappers have earned both love and hate in equal measure.

Lucasraps:

 Kickstarting his career with a bang after featuring on Dr Peppa’s hit “What it Is,” Lucasraps rapidly climbed the ladder of fame.

With the release of his debut album “031 To The World” and collaborations with artists like Blxckie, he showcased unique lyrical skills.

However, his growing ego led to controversies, including a suspicious mansion purchase and public spats with fellow rappers, ultimately affecting his reputation.

Priddy Ugly:

Initially underestimated due to his unique persona and music style, Priddy Ugly silenced his critics by winning “Best Lyricist of the Year” at the 2022 South African HipHop Awards. His journey from being overlooked to becoming one of the industry’s respected figures is a testament to his talent and perseverance.

Emtee: Known for hits like “RollUp” and “We Up,” Emtee’s career took a downturn due to personal struggles and controversial incidents. Despite his musical achievements, his public persona has been marred by controversies, impacting his reputation within the industry.

A-Reece: A-Reece stands out as a rapper who has ended several careers single-handedly. Despite facing challenges, including disputes within his former rap group “The Wrecking Crew,” he continues to thrive as an independent artist, winning over fans with his music and resilience.

Shane Eagle: Once hailed as one of the industry’s rising stars, Shane Eagle’s career faced setbacks following public disputes and the release of an underwhelming album. Despite these challenges, Shane Eagle has the potential to bounce back with renewed focus and humility.

Nasty C: Recognized for his humility and talent, Nasty C has set a positive example for aspiring artists. With international collaborations and critically acclaimed albums under his belt, Nasty C continues to win hearts worldwide with his music.

Big Xhosa: Known for stirring controversies and beefing with fellow artists, Big Xhosa’s career trajectory has been unpredictable. Despite garnering attention for his antics, he faces challenges in establishing himself as a respected artist due to the quality of his music.

Blxckie: Blxckie’s meteoric rise began with the release of “Big Time Shlappa,” captivating audiences and earning critical acclaim. His debut album “B4Now” further solidified his status in the industry, with platinum-certified tracks and collaborations with renowned artists.