25K Aims for Grammy Recognition for South African Hip Hop. South African artist 25K recently conveyed his vision for the country’s hip hop industry, stressing the importance of achieving global acknowledgment.
25K Aims for Grammy Recognition for South African Hip HopIn a revealing discussion on The Element Podcast, he shared his thoughts on the evolution and potential of South African hip hop, voicing a strong wish to see local artists honored on the international scene. “When I think about SA Hip Hop,” 25K said, “I feel like our rappers are making such good music, creating dope projects that deserve to be acknowledged internationally. I would love to see our artists receive recognition at the Grammys, or even at a VMA or an MTV Award. That kind of spotlight would be monumental for the culture here.”
He also pointed to the BET Awards, expressing his regret over Maglera Doe Boy’s loss for Best International Act. “I really wanted Maglera to win because I feel like that could have been the start of something bigger,” 25K remarked.
“I look at it like AKA was a Grammy Nominee type of musician. That’s how I look at it because he was so close with Burna Boy before they fell out. Look at what Burna is doing now musically. And we don’t know how they met and why they fell out, but one thing I know, Kiernan wouldn’t cosign something, especially music, if he doesn’t think it’s the one he was really honest,” he continued.
25K also compared the current success of South African dance music, which has gained international traction. “Look at what dance music from South Africa is doing around the world. The recognition is there. It is just about translating that for hip hop. People are starting to notice South Africa holistically. Bafana Bafana qualifying for the World Cup, rugby achievements, and the Proteas’ strong performance in cricket. All these things contribute to a bigger picture, and I believe hip hop should be part of that global narrative too.”
