YoungstaCPT: Redefining South African Hip-Hop—One Verse at a Time

YoungstaCPT—born Riyadh Roberts, also known as Youngsta Kaapstad—is more than just a rapper; he's a cultural force and an industry game-changer. From the Cape Flats of Wynberg to global recognition, his journey reshapes how South African hip-hop, fashion, and storytelling are perceived.

Rooted Identity & Unfiltered Voice

Since emerging on the scene around 2013, YoungstaCPT has released a staggering volume of work—over 30 mixtapes, 6 EPs, and collaborative projects—before finally dropping his debut studio album 3T (Things Take Time) in 2019 . This album won Album of the Year at the 2019 South African Hip Hop Awards .

But beyond accolades, what sets him apart is his unapologetic use of his Cape Malay cultural heritage, his Cape Town accent, and the vernacular of his community. YoungstaCPT raps in a style deeply rooted in the lived experiences of Coloured youth—imbued with Afrikaans, English, and local slang—refusing to dilute his voice for mass appeal . His lyrics confront colonial history, socio-economic struggles, and identity politics, giving voice to a community often overlooked in mainstream media .

Visual Storytelling & Cultural Representation

His visual aesthetics do more than promote music—they showcase Cape Town’s overlooked neighborhoods and communities. His videos, often shot on the Cape Flats, spotlight the vibrant diversity of Coloured life—an imagery rarely presented on national platforms .

On tracks like “V.O.C,” he boldly declares himself “The Voice of the Cape,” weaving historical reflection with personal testimony—“The Mother City was pure till they corrupted her,” he raps—bridging ancestral narrative with present-day realities .

Relentless Hustle & DIY Ethos

Youngsta’s work ethic is legendary. In just two years, he dropped over 24 mixtapes, six EPs, and more than 20 music videos, including his viral #VisualVrydag series . His hustle didn’t just build a catalog—it paved the way for visibility and impact.

He also broke ground as the first Cape Town artist to win Lyricist of the Year at the SA Hip Hop Awards—outshining lyrical heavyweights like Stogie T and Shane Eagle .

Fashion as an Extension of Identity

YoungstaCPT hasn’t just influenced music—he disrupted fashion. Drawing inspiration from his mom, a stylist with a deep love for style and thrifted looks, he developed his unique aesthetic—often mixing streetwear with Cape Malay influences . In 2023, GQ South Africa honored him with their prestigious Best Dressed Cultural Fashion Influence Award, calling him “one of the most outspoken South African emcees of his generation” .

He built his fashion brand Y?Gen, which includes apparel, a flagship store, and even a barbershop—merging music, style, and enterprise into a full lifestyle ecosystem .

Cross-Industry Presence & Collaborations

YoungstaCPT’s influence extends into acting too. In 2021, he made his debut on Netflix’s hit series Blood & Water (Season 2), even launching co-branded merch with the platform—a collaboration Netflix had not previously attempted with a local artist . It showcases how his brand transcends music—it’s creative, cultural, and commercial.

He’s also collaborated with fellow South African artists such as Shane Eagle (AMMO) and Ganja Beatz (Wes-Kaap), as well as internationally—he featured on a remix with Canadian rapper Tory Lanez—bringing Cape Town’s flavor to global audiences .

Why He Matters — A Legacy of Impact

Amplifying Marginalized Voices: YoungstaCPT emerged from the Cape Flats to speak on behalf of the Coloured community, dismantling stereotypes and carving out representation through authenticity.

Crafting Culture, Not Just Music: He blends music, fashion, and entrepreneurship, building a cultural infrastructure through Y?Gen and visual storytelling, all from his own community.

Inspiring a Generation: His output—both prolific and purposeful—sets an example for aspiring artists to hustle, stay true to their roots, and diversify their medium.

Shifting Hip-Hop’s Geography: As part of South Africa’s broader hip-hop landscape, YoungstaCPT elevates Cape Town’s distinct voice—local narratives that resonate nationally and abroad .

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In conclusion, YoungstaCPT isn’t just a rapper—he’s a movement. From the Cape Flats to fashion runways and even Netflix sets, he’s shown that impact comes from honesty, hustle, and unapologetic cultural pride. He changed the industry by opening doors, shifting the narrative, and proving that authenticity can propel you farther than conformity ever could.

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