Time and time again, we hear about Nota Baloyi’s outspoken nature, his controversial takes on celebrities, and his contributions to the South African music industry. While many focus on his often outrageous comments and social media feuds, it’s impossible to ignore the impact he has had on the careers of several artists. From Kwesta and Kid X to Makwa and many others, Nota has played a role in shaping the careers of some of the biggest names in local hip-hop.
If we take a step back and look beyond the Twitter wars and podcast rants, it becomes clear that he possesses valuable industry knowledge. One recent example is his take on Touchline Truth, where he stated that the rapper might struggle to fully flourish due to being mentored by Slikour. At first glance, this may seem like yet another jab, but there is some truth to his argument. Touchline has been in the game for a while, consistently dropping quality music, yet he is still seen as the “new kid on the block.” Despite his undeniable talent, he hasn’t dominated the rap scene the way he should. And by the way, his latest project, S.O.O.N 2, is out on all digital platforms.
Nota has moments of brilliance where his insights challenge the status quo. Then, of course, there are times when his comments miss the mark entirely. But regardless of whether you agree with him or not, his contributions to the industry are undeniable. He is one of the last of a dying breed—those who aren’t afraid to spark debates and challenge the industry’s direction.
Take, for instance, the infamous AKA vs. Cassper Nyovest beef. Nota played a major role in fueling the rivalry and even pushed for a boxing match between the two. His involvement in these moments of hip-hop culture ensures that conversations about the state of the industry remain active and engaging.
Love him or hate him, Nota Baloyi will be remembered as an icon in South African music—not necessarily for his diplomacy, but for making people think, create, and take ownership of their craft. At the end of the day, that is the essence of black excellence.
