Nsikayesizwe David Junior Ngcobo, professionally known as Nasty C, is a South African rapper, songwriter, and record producer whose meteoric rise has redefined the global perception of African hip-hop. Born on February 11, 1997, in Diepkloof, Soweto, Johannesburg, he relocated to Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, after the tragic passing of his mother when he was just 11 months old. Raised by his father, David Maviyo Ngcobo, a human resources manager, Nasty C was introduced to music by his older brother, Siyabonga Ngcobo, who taught him the basics of producing at the age of nine. He also has a younger brother, Olwethu Ngcobo. Nasty C attended Strelitzia Secondary School in Lotus Park, Durban, where he completed his high school education.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Nasty C’s musical journey began at the age of 14 with the release of his debut mixtape, One Kid, a Thousand Coffins, on May 14, 2012. He followed this with the EP L.A.M.E (Levitating Above My Enemies) on April 4, 2014. His 2015 mixtape Price City featured the breakout single “Juice Back,” which garnered significant attention and was later remixed featuring Nigerian artist Davido and South African rapper Cassper Nyovest. This track played a pivotal role in establishing Nasty C as a prominent figure in the South African hip-hop scene.
Major Albums and Musical Evolution
Bad Hair (2016)
Released on September 23, 2016, Bad Hair marked Nasty C’s debut studio album. The album received critical acclaim and featured collaborations with artists like Rowlene and Tellaman. It showcased his versatility and lyrical prowess, solidifying his position in the South African music industry.
Strings and Bling (2018)
On July 6, 2018, Nasty C released his second studio album, Strings and Bling, under Universal Music South Africa. The album blended hip-hop with elements of trap and R&B, featuring guest appearances from artists such as A$AP Ferg and Rowlene. It won the Best Hip Hop Album and Best Produced Album at the 25th South African Music Awards, further cementing his status as a leading artist in the genre.
Zulu Man with Some Power (2020)
In August 2020, Nasty C released his third studio album, Zulu Man with Some Power, under a joint venture with Def Jam Recordings Africa. The album featured international collaborations with artists like Lil Keed, Ari Lennox, and T.I. It received widespread acclaim and was a significant milestone in his international career.
I Love It Here (2023)
On September 15, 2023, Nasty C released his fourth studio album, I Love It Here, which debuted at number one on the South African charts. The album continued to showcase his growth as an artist and his ability to blend various musical styles seamlessly.
Tours and Performances
Nasty C has embarked on several successful tours, including:
- The Ivyson Tour (2017–2021): A series of performances across South Africa and Namibia.
- The Ivyson Army Tour (2022): A mixtape and accompanying tour dedicated to his fans.
- African Thrones Tour (2023): A collaborative tour with Cassper Nyovest, spanning multiple African countries.
- I Love It Here Tour (2024): An international tour, with dates in France and other countries.
Awards and Recognition
Nasty C’s talent has been recognized with numerous awards, including:
- 2015: Best Freshman at the South African Hip Hop Awards.
- 2017: Best New Artist and Best Male Album at the Metro FM Music Awards.
- 2021: Best Hip Hop Album at the South African Music Awards for Zulu Man with Some Power.
- 2021: Best Hip Hop Artist at the MTV Africa Music Awards.
- 2023: Best Collaboration for “Lemons (Lemonade)” at the Metro FM Music Awards.
Personal Life and Influences
Nasty C’s music is influenced by a blend of local South African sounds and international hip-hop. His experiences growing up in Durban, coupled with his exposure to various musical genres, have shaped his unique style. He is in a relationship with Sammie Heavens, and the couple shares a son. Beyond music, Nasty C has ventured into acting, with roles in Netflix’s Blood & Water and Disney+’s Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire.
Conclusion
Nasty C’s journey from a young rapper in Durban to an international music icon is a testament to his talent, resilience, and dedication to his craft. His ability to blend local and global sounds has not only garnered him a dedicated fanbase but has also paved the way for future African artists on the global stage. With each project, Nasty C continues to evolve, solidifying his legacy as one of Africa’s most influential musical artists.
