Johannesburg, 01 December – MTV Base, the leading youth and pop culture brand on the continent, has once again ignited the South African hip-hop scene with the release of its highly anticipated Hottest MCs list for 2023. After intense deliberations by a panel of distinguished judges including Kyeezi, Fiflaaa, DJ Switch, DJ ZanD, Kamo Moth, Sne Mbatha, and host Tshego Koke, the top 10 rankings were unveiled over two electrifying nights on November 30 and December 1.
Topping this prestigious list is none other than the legendary AKA, whose influence on the genre is undeniable. AKA’s latest album, “Mass Country,” has left an indelible mark on the industry, delivering chart-toppers like “Company,” “Prada,” and “Lemons.” His musical prowess, combined with a career of hits and collaborations, solidifies his status as a true icon in South African hip-hop.
Tshego Koke, the host of the show, commented on the difficulty of determining the final rankings, stating, “Choosing the order of the Hottest MCs this year was an incredibly challenging task for our judges. The talent in the South African hip-hop scene is at an all-time high, making it tough to narrow down the list. Congratulations to AKA for claiming the top spot!”
Maglera Doe Boy, a rising star in the industry, secured a well-deserved spot on the list at number 3, just behind Nasty C who ranked number 2. With his unique sound and undeniable talent, Maglera Doe Boy is expected to climb the ranks in the coming years.
The top five positions were rounded out by K.O (number 4), and Cassper Nyovest (number 5), representing the established names and heavyweights of the industry. Their enduring impact and contribution to the genre solidify their places in the ongoing debate about the greatest of all time (GOAT) in South African hip-hop.
The judging criteria for the Hottest MCs list included a thorough examination of metrics such as Bars and Lyrics, Intangibles, X Factor, and Impact. The combination of these factors helped the panel arrive at a well-considered and comprehensive ranking.[MN1] [TA2]
The MC’s who took the remaining spots on the list were:
6.Blackie
7. A-Reece
8. Bravo Le Roux
9. K.Keed
10. Touchline
Monde Twala, Senior Vice President & GM Paramount Africa, emphasized the enduring influence of SupaMega not only in South Africa but the rest of the world. “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to AKA and all the artists who made the list. Together, they represent the beating heart of South African hip-hop.”
“The Hottest MCs 2023 is part of our celebration of 50 years of Hip Hop and the influence Hip Hop has on the culture, locally and globally. We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to the esteemed panel of judges whose unwavering dedication and industry expertise have been the driving force behind the success of Hottest MCs.”
As the debate on the Hottest MCs continues to captivate the nation, MTV Base remains at the forefront, recognizing and celebrating the incredible talent that defines the vibrant South African hip-hop landscape.
ENDS
