DJ Speedsta Discusses R200,000 Payment to Anatii for “Special Somebody” Collaboration. In a recent interview featured on The Inside Show, hosted by George Avakian and sponsored by Johnnie Walker Africa, DJ Speedsta (Lesego Nkaiseng) from South Africa opened up about the significant financial risk he took that significantly influenced one of his major tracks.
Regarding the record that defined his career, Speedsta pointed to “Special Somebody”, the track released in 2015 that featured prominent artists such as Cassper Nyovest, Riky Rick, and Anatii. Distributed by Sid Records, it quickly became a staple in the South African hip-hop genre, garnering millions of views on its official music video and affirming Speedsta’s position in the industry.
However, the journey to this achievement was riddled with challenges and considerable expenses. Speedsta discussed the significant financial leap required at that time, admitting that he was not financially prepared to cover the costs.
“The first big record was probably ‘Special Somebody,'” he told Avakian. “It cost me a lot of money back then, which I didn’t have. I remember my best friend Fubz. He lent me the money. I told him, ‘Yoh, I need R200 000 to pay Anatii for his feature.’ He said, ‘Are you mad?’ I said, ‘Trust me, I’ll pay you back.’
He elaborated on the expenses, stating, “The beat, R200 000 for the feature, and studio time because we were recording at his studio. I just didn’t realize I would have to pay it all at once.”
Speedsta’s experiences underscore the commitment behind many of the notable hip-hop collaborations from South Africa in the mid-2010s. During a time when the local industry was flourishing yet resources were limited for upcoming artists, Speedsta made a daring investment in the track’s potential.
This narrative serves as a testament to the resolve necessary to succeed in South African hip-hop. The journey often involves vision, calculated risks, steadfast friendships, and at times, substantial financial support from close allies. Years later, as he enjoys a successful radio career, engages in podcast projects like Up To Speed, and leaves an indelible mark on the music scene, it is evident that his investment paid off.
