Nota Challenges Blxckie Over Comments About Focalistic
In a recent social media exchange that has stirred conversations across the South African hip-hop community, industry veteran Nota Baloyi publicly criticized rapper Blxckie for what he perceives as a lack of respect toward fellow artist Focalistic. The dispute emerged following Blxckie’s remarks regarding the use of a Pro Kid beat and a freestyle controversy involving K.Keed and DJ Speedsta.
Blxckie’s Controversial Statement and Clarification
During an interview, Blxckie sparked debate when he stated, “Personally, I’m not rapping on a ProKid beat in 2025,” a comment that some fans and peers interpreted as dismissive of the late ProKid’s influential legacy in South African hip-hop. Seeking to clarify his stance, Blxckie took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account, where he shared a clip of Focalistic freestyling over a beat he felt was mismatched with Focalistic’s signature style.
Blxckie explained, “If they had just given him a beat that matched what he was doing at the time-something with piano or afro vibes-he would’ve delivered a much stronger performance. That’s all I meant, but people chose to interpret it as disrespecting a legend. That’s fine, I stand by my words.”
now if they just gave him a beat that suits what he was doing at the time, which is piano and/or afro vibes, he would’ve killed it better. thats all i was saying and yall just chose to think i’m disrespecting a legend. but thats fine, i know what i said.
— somnyama, yena yedwa. (@blxckie___) August 28, 2025
Nota’s Reproach on Language and Respect
Within the same thread, Blxckie referred to Focalistic as “my guy,” a phrase that drew sharp rebuke from Nota Baloyi. Responding directly to Blxckie, Nota emphasized the importance of reverence for established artists, writing:
Foca is your OG… He earned his stripes in the streets & made his mark on our hearts. “Foca is my guy” is disrespectful. Foca would never say NOTA is my guy, he was well raised to respect a grootman. Introspect & come back with a proper apology.
— MORAL Authority (@lavidaNOTA) August 28, 2025
Nota’s comments quickly gained traction online, sparking debates about the nuances of respect and hierarchy within the hip-hop community. He argued that even casual language, when used by younger artists toward their seniors, can unintentionally diminish the stature of those who paved the way.
Blxckie Defends His Intentions and Relationship with Focalistic
Blxckie responded promptly, questioning the grounds of Nota’s accusations. He clarified that calling Focalistic “my guy” was a reflection of their personal rapport, not a sign of disrespect. In his reply, Blxckie stated:
😭malume come on. how is that disrespectful? thats my guy, beng’khuluma naye izolo. awukahle.
— somnyama, yena yedwa. (@blxckie___) August 28, 2025
This exchange highlights the ongoing tension between traditional respect codes and modern expressions of camaraderie within the evolving South African hip-hop scene.
Broader Implications for South African Hip-Hop Culture
Although Focalistic has yet to publicly address the controversy, the incident has reignited discussions about how emerging artists should engage with their predecessors. Blxckie’s original intent was to illustrate how the alignment of beats with an artist’s unique style can enhance performance, using Focalistic’s freestyle as an example. However, the conversation quickly shifted toward the dynamics of respect, mentorship, and generational roles in the industry.
As South African hip-hop continues to grow-boasting a 15% annual increase in streaming numbers and expanding its global footprint-these debates underscore the importance of balancing innovation with reverence for the genre’s pioneers.
Ultimately, this episode serves as a reminder of the delicate interplay between artistic expression and cultural respect, a balance that shapes the future of the vibrant South African hip-hop community.
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