Emtee: From Humble Beginnings to Becoming a South African Hip Hop Icon

When you think about modern South African hip hop, one name that consistently stands out is Emtee, born Mthembeni Ndevu. From his breakout hit “Roll Up” to becoming a staple in the industry, Emtee’s story is one of resilience, talent, and authenticity. His journey from the dusty streets of Matatiele and Rockville, Soweto, to award-winning stardom is a true reflection of passion and persistence in the face of challenges.

Early Life and Musical Passion

Emtee was born on September 17, 1992, in Matatiele, a small town in the Eastern Cape, before his family relocated to Rockville, Soweto. Music surrounded him from an early age, and unlike many children, he didn’t dream of being a doctor or a lawyer—he wanted to be a musician. His love for performance came naturally. By the age of 9, he was already performing on stage at school talent shows and community events.

His first major recognition came when he performed at a talent show at the age of 9 in Yeoville, which gave him a taste of the stage life. From there, he never looked back. Inspired by both local kwaito stars and American hip hop legends, Emtee crafted his unique sound that merged township storytelling with trap beats.

Breaking Into the Industry

Getting into the South African music industry is no easy feat, especially for a young artist from Soweto with limited resources. Emtee spent his teenage years recording in makeshift studios, learning production, and sharpening his rap skills. He eventually linked up with the group African Trap Movement (ATM), which included artists like Saudi, Sjava, and producer Ruff.

This collective would later become a defining part of Emtee’s career. They focused on blending South African street culture with the trap genre, something relatively new to Mzansi at the time. Their music resonated with the youth because it was both authentic and fresh.

The Breakthrough: “Roll Up”

In 2015, Emtee released “Roll Up”, the song that would change his life forever. The single became an instant hit, dominating airwaves and topping charts across the country. Within months, “Roll Up” was everywhere—from taxis and clubs to radio and TV. The track became so influential that even Nigerian superstar Wizkid and South Africa’s AKA jumped on the remix, later titled “Roll Up (Re-Up).”

The success of “Roll Up” proved that Emtee was not just another up-and-coming rapper—he was a force to be reckoned with. His unique flow, combined with his trap-inspired beats, brought something refreshing to South African hip hop.

The Debut Album: Avery

Following the success of “Roll Up,” Emtee released his debut album, Avery, named after his first-born son. The album solidified his place in the music industry, with hits like “Pearl Thusi,” “Mama,” and “We Up.” The project not only showcased his versatility but also revealed his softer side, as he often rapped about family, love, and the struggles of the come-up.

Avery went on to win Album of the Year at the South African Hip Hop Awards in 2016, while “Roll Up” won Song of the Year. Emtee himself scooped multiple awards, including Best Rap Album and Best Newcomer. For a young artist in his early 20s, these achievements were monumental.

Continued Success and Challenges

After Avery, Emtee released his sophomore album, Manando (2017), dedicated to his late childhood friend. This album was deeply personal, filled with stories of his upbringing, pain, and loyalty. Songs like “Corner Store” and “Plug” continued to showcase his talent and solidify his brand of trap music.

In 2018, he dropped DIY 2, a follow-up to his earlier independent project DIY. This project further displayed his growth as both an artist and a producer.

However, success didn’t come without challenges. Emtee faced several controversies, from struggles with his former label Ambitiouz Entertainment to public scrutiny over his personal life. At one point, he even collapsed on stage, raising concerns about his well-being. Despite these hurdles, Emtee never gave up on his music or his vision.

Independence and the Birth of Emtee Records

In 2019, Emtee parted ways with Ambitiouz Entertainment, citing unfair treatment and lack of artistic freedom. This was a bold and risky move, as many artists struggle after leaving major labels. But Emtee chose independence over comfort.

He went on to launch his own label, Emtee Records, under which he began to release music on his own terms. This marked a new era for the rapper, where he could control not only his music but also his brand. His independence also meant nurturing new talent and building something lasting beyond his own career.

Logan and the Evolution of Emtee

In 2021, Emtee released Logan, an album named after his second-born son. This album was seen as a comeback project and a statement of maturity. Tracks like “iThemba” and “Waves” showed his resilience and determination to keep pushing despite setbacks. Logan received positive reviews and reminded fans why Emtee is considered one of the most important voices in South African hip hop.

Where Emtee Stands Today

As of now, Emtee stands as a symbol of perseverance in the industry. He is not just a rapper but a father, a businessman, and an example to young artists who dream of making it against all odds. His story continues to inspire because it proves that even when the odds are stacked against you, talent combined with determination can take you far.

Today, Emtee is working on new projects under his label and continues to perform across South Africa. His ability to stay relevant while staying true to his roots is what makes him special. He represents the voice of the streets, the triumphs and struggles of the youth, and the evolution of South African trap music.

Final Thoughts

From a young boy in Matatiele with big dreams to one of South Africa’s most celebrated hip hop stars, Emtee’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. His story is not only about music but also about resilience, independence, and authenticity. Emtee has proven that true success is not just about hits and awards—it’s about leaving a legacy that inspires the next generation.

Watch his latest https://youtu.be/Q-oQjMBzdww?si=3qq9iylk45yVchSz