2024 has been a testament to the resilience and undeniable star power of SA Hip Hop. From hit records dominating charts to sold-out shows across the country, even the harshest critics can’t deny the genre’s vitality. And what better way to round off such a remarkable year than with Nasty C’s highly anticipated Ivyson Tour?
The Legacy of Nasty C
When discussing trailblazers in South African music, Nasty C’s name is impossible to overlook. Since his breakout, the ‘Strings and Bling’ hitmaker has paved the way for younger artists to thrive in the music industry. His influence extends beyond music, redefining what it means to be a global SA Hip Hop artist. The Ivyson Tour—a platform he created to celebrate not just himself but the entire culture—proves that Nasty is still a generational talent.
For day-one Ivysons, his growth over the years has been both thrilling and emotional. Despite criticism from purist Hip Hop heads, Nasty has consistently shown that he’s unafraid to explore different sounds and genres, creating music that’s both experimental and unapologetically fun.
The Venue: Where Music & Entertainment Meet
This year’s Ivyson Tour stop in Johannesburg was hosted at the iconic Ferreiras Dorp venue in Fox Street, a perfect choice for the occasion. Centrally located and spacious, the venue accommodated the large crowd comfortably—a blessing for those who dread the chaos of overcrowded spaces (guilty).
From the moment I walked in, it was clear that the attention to detail was unmatched. A stunning Ivyson logo stand greeted attendees at the entrance, with the Elesse stand right next to it, creating the ultimate photo opportunity for showgoers. The LED light stand engraved with Ivyson was another standout feature—proof that branding is truly an art.
Inside the venue, gaming enthusiasts had their moment to shine at gaming stations, with a cash prize of R3,500 up for grabs courtesy of Elesse. This was totally on brand since Nasty C is an avid The thoughtfulness behind the setup made it clear that this wasn’t just a concert; it was an experience.
The venue’s dim lighting and sprawling open layout gave it an edgy, urban feel, perfectly suited for a night of Hip Hop. Moreover, the sound quality was crisp, each bass drop reverberating through the space with electrifying clarity. Between performances, the buzz of excited conversations, and the occasional shout-outs from the MCs created a communal energy.
The New Wave: A Spotlight on SA Hip Hop’s Rising Stars
SA Hip Hop’s new wave is here, and it’s impossible not to feel excited about the future. While the 2014 peak introduced us to legends like AKA and Cassper Nyovest, today’s emerging artists like Blxckie, Usimamane, and Kindlynxsh are redefining the game. Shows like Ivyson offer these young talents a platform to shine, giving them access to a crowd that truly appreciates their music.
For me, it’s the energy of the new wave that stands out. Watching these artists perform is a reminder that SA Hip Hop is alive and thriving. We can celebrate the veterans while acknowledging that this new generation is holding its own—and doing it spectacularly.
The Electric Performances
From start to finish, the performances were nothing short of captivating. Although I missed Lucasraps and The Qwellers (fashionably late, as usual), I arrived just in time to catch Dankie Boi igniting the stage with an electric Gqom set—a surprise highlight I didn’t expect to enjoy as much as I did.
Usimamane brought a soulful vibe with an acoustic version of Uvalo, while Maglera Doe Boy had the crowd buzzing with his iconic Ntjaka verse over the Sosh Plata beat. But it was Kindlynxsh who stole the show for me. From his high-energy performance of Don’t Braai Me (Soldier Man) to bringing out Baby Daiz, he was there to make a statement—and he did just that.
Of course, the night belonged to Nasty C. From the moment he hit the stage, the energy was palpable and the roar from the audience turned the venue into a living, breathing entity. Performing hits that spanned his decade-long career, he reminded us why he’s one of the most beloved artists in the country. Tracks like Good Girls (SCH), a deep cut that only true Ivysons could appreciate, showcased his dedication to his core fans. His ability to seamlessly blend heartfelt ballads with club anthems was also a stark reminder of his versatility and unmatched artistry.
A Few Misses: The Amapiano Sets
As much as I love Amapiano, I have to admit that the consecutive sets from DBN Gogo and Mellow & Sleazy felt a bit out of place at a Hip Hop-focused event. While I understand that Amapiano is now a staple in South African music, it overshadowed the Hip Hop vibe I came for. Still, the sets were undeniably entertaining for fans of the genre, and their inclusion speaks to the broader appeal of the Ivyson Tour.
Conclusion: Nasty C’s Reign Continues
During his closing remarks, Nasty C reflected on his nearly 10-year career, a milestone that left me both inspired and nostalgic. I couldn’t help but think about my own journey as an Ivyson. From the first time I heard Juice Back to digging a little deeper and discovering the Price City Mixtape, his music has been the soundtrack to countless memories. His growth—from a precocious kid on the rise to a seasoned artist with global appeal—mirrors the evolution of SA Hip Hop itself. Watching him command the stage felt like a shared triumph for everyone who’s followed his career. For me, the Ivyson Tour wasn’t just a concert; it was a celebration of how far we’ve all come.
In an industry where artists often come and go, Nasty’s consistency is nothing short of remarkable. From chart-topping hits to international accolades, he remains at the forefront of SA Hip Hop, proving that his star power is far from fading.
If you missed the Johannesburg leg of the Ivyson Tour, don’t make the same mistake twice. Whether it’s the upcoming Durban edition or next year’s tour, trust me—you’ll want to be there. Nasty C isn’t just the coolest kid in Africa; he’s a living legend in the making.