Nasty C & Usimamane Soar on National Radio Hip Hop Chart with "Soft"

South African Hip-Hop Shines on National Radio with Nasty C & Usimamane’s “Soft”

In a remarkable feat for South African hip-hop, Nasty C and Usimamane have emerged as the sole representatives of the genre on the National Top 20 Radio Airplay Chart for Week 35 of 2025. Their collaborative single, “Soft,” climbed to an impressive #4 spot, standing out amid a chart dominated by a variety of other music styles.

Breaking Through a Diverse Radio Landscape

Compiled by Radio Monitor South Africa, the weekly Top 20 Radio Airplay Chart measures the most-played tracks across multiple radio formats nationwide. The presence of “Soft” at number four highlights not only its widespread radio rotation but also the growing acceptance and popularity of hip-hop within South Africa’s mainstream music scene, which often favors pop, dance, and other genres.

Social Media Buzz Amplifies the Achievement

The song’s success quickly sparked conversations online. A fan’s Instagram repost of the Radio Monitor SA chart, captioned “with a whole genre on his shoulder,” praised Nasty C’s pivotal role in elevating South African hip-hop to broader audiences. Nasty C himself shared this post on his Instagram story, further spotlighting the track’s cultural significance and rallying support from fans and peers alike.

A Fusion of Experience and Emerging Talent

“Soft” is a powerful collaboration that merges Nasty C’s seasoned artistry with Usimamane’s fresh energy. Usimamane, who gained widespread recognition with his multi-platinum hit “Cheque,” brings a dynamic presence that complements Nasty C’s introspective lyricism and polished delivery. The track’s atmospheric production and thoughtful lyrics strike a balance between commercial appeal and artistic depth, which has resonated strongly with listeners across radio and streaming platforms.

Consistent Growth Across Platforms

Since its release, “Soft” has maintained steady momentum, gaining traction not only on radio but also on streaming services, music video outlets, and social media channels. This multi-platform success underscores the track’s broad appeal and the effective synergy between the two artists. Nasty C’s established fanbase combined with Usimamane’s rising profile has created a compelling dynamic that continues to captivate audiences.

Building on a Foundation of Success

Both artists have experienced significant milestones leading up to this collaboration. Nasty C remains a dominant figure in South African hip-hop, with recent projects receiving critical acclaim and strong digital engagement. Meanwhile, Usimamane’s rapid ascent, fueled by high-streaming singles, positions him as one of the genre’s most promising new voices. Their joint effort on “Soft” not only propels their individual careers forward but also reinforces hip-hop’s growing influence in South Africa’s mainstream music industry.

Hip-Hop’s Enduring Presence in South Africa’s Music Scene

The strong radio performance of “Soft” is a testament to the genre’s evolving relevance and the increasing appetite for hip-hop among South African audiences. As the music landscape continues to diversify, collaborations like this one highlight the genre’s ability to innovate and connect with listeners on a national scale. Nasty C and Usimamane’s partnership is a significant chapter in the ongoing story of South African hip-hop in 2025.