MEET THE UNIVERSITY OF COTTON FEST’S CREATIVE PROGRAMME CLASS OF 2026
MashBeatz(Producer)
MashBeatz, also known as Nhlawulo Shipambuli Mashimbyi, is recognized as a prominent South African record producer, composer, engineer, and DJ. He started his music production journey at 14 and earned acclaim for his unique sound and commercially successful tracks. In his career, he has collaborated with many well-known South African musicians including Maglera Doe Boy, A-Reece, Wordz, Ami Faku, Riky Rick, and Thato Saul.
IG:Mashbeatz_twc
PEGG
PEGG is a 23-year-old rapper hailing from Durban. Recognized for his innovative approach and exceptional lyrical skills, he stands out in the music scene. His dynamic performances have garnered him a dedicated following, and as the self-described “Supamlungu,” he is definitely a talent to watch in 2026.
IG:@pegg.dbn
Risky T RSA
Known as Ntethelelo Thobani Nxumalo, 19-year-old Risky T RSA is a rapper from Ntuzuma E in Durban. His music features a hard-hitting trap style that fuses isiZulu and English, encapsulating real street stories. Influenced by artists like King Von, he brings authentic experiences to life through his powerful narratives.
IG:@risky_t_sa
Billy GSA
Billy G SA, an artist based in Cape Town, showcases a diverse musical palette that includes Drill, Trap, Hip-Hop, and R&B. His musical journey began in 2012 under the influence of his older brother, and by 2015 he was recording professionally. With over 700 songs to his credit, he reflects a genuine passion for music in his prolific output.
IG:billythegoat_official
Polly T
Balekanne Lefora, known as Polly T, is an emerging rap artist from Kraaifontein in Cape Town. His sharp lyricism and engaging stage performance led him to gain significant recognition after winning the Cotton Fest 2024 Open Mic Competition and the Hannah V x Cape Town Thing 2023 Competition, establishing him as a notable new talent.
IG:@polly_tsa
OrchidMusiQ
OrchidMusiQ is a Durban-born singer, songwriter, and composer who expertly fuses Afrobeats, Amapiano, Pop, and acoustic elements to create a unique contemporary sound. In 2023, she made history as the first woman in Durban to capture the Cotton Fest Open Mic title and later achieved a Top 10 position among an all-male lineup. Having collaborated with artists such as Sam Deep, DaMuziqal Chef, SinoMsolo, and Nasty C, she is emerging as one of the most promising talents in the area.
IG:@orchid_musiq
BizzyAcwesh
Born as Acwenga Mpinda, Bizzy Acwesh is a rapper, singer, and songwriter from King Williamstown in the Eastern Cape, currently residing in Johannesburg. Her music is a blend of hip-hop, rap, and Afropop, delivered through impactful isiXhosa lyrics that reflect her truth and personal experiences. Through songs like “Egoli Mfethu,” she communicates themes of resilience and growth.
IG:@bizzy_achwesh
Tallrickyworldwide
Known as Lonwabo, Tallrickyworldwide is a rapper from Queenstown, having grown up in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. His music is deeply rooted in Ekasi culture, and he describes his style, “Loxion Hype,” as a combination of township narratives and global hip-hop influences, encapsulating the ambitions of South African youth for broader recognition.
IG: @mxhosa_wase_greece
Tr3.lxgy
Lebohang Innocent Shabangu, known professionally as Tr3.lxgy, is a hip-hop artist from Emalahleni, Mpumalanga. He incorporates elements of rap, trap, and melody in his music, drawing inspiration from daily life experiences. His engaging personality and unique perspective allow him to transform everyday moments into relatable songs.
IG:@lebotrilogy
NinoFresko
Originating from Bethlehem in the Free State, Nino Fresko is an innovative artist known for his blend of trap, Kwaito, and South African hip-hop, which he refers to as the Fresko Sound. Drawing inspiration from legends like Kendrick Lamar, Khuli Chana, and Pharrell, he exhibits a natural transition between reflective and energetic styles. A creator since childhood, he has released numerous mixtapes while expanding his reach into fashion and animation.
IG: @ninofresko
LUUKHANYO
Emerging from Cape Town, LUUKHANYO is a versatile rapper and vocalist who blends R&B, hip-hop, funk, and jazz. He has gained recognition for his distinct and experimental sound, performing at key festivals such as Cotton Fest, MTN Bushfire, and Up The Creek. With over 3 million streams on his track “HiiROLLER” and accolades from major platforms like Apple Music, BBC Radio 1, and Texx and the City, LUUKHANYO is steadily growing his international presence.
IG:@luukhanyoisart
