South Africa's hottest MC list stirs controversy
MTV Base's famed list of top local rappers has caused some controversy shortly after being released - bringing with it the expected drama surrounding such competitive lists.
The second half of the list was revealed on Thursday evening and the reasons as to why these MCs had taken these spots was discussed:
6. Kwesta (Has had a great year which included collaborations)
7. Khuli Chana (Is set on conquering Africa after partnering with Patoranking to produce a continental hip hop track)
8. Kid X (Has immense talent but hasn't tapped into his full potential yet)
9. iFani (New album went gold within 24 hours of release and has major airplay on rotation)
10. L-Tido (Released Dlala Ka Yona one of the most popular hip hop songs of 2015 featuring soccer star magnet, Pulane)
This year, the criteria for the list was a combination of the cool factor, how many endorsements rappers had clinched throughout the year, their impact on youth culture, sales, lyrical content, style as well as branding and business savvy.
The panel reviewing all these factors consist of Fred Kayembe, Slikour, Tbo Touch, Vukile Zondi, Ms Cosmo, Melanie Triegaardt and Loyiso Gola, while MTV Base VJ Sizwe Dhlomo helmed the debate.
The response to the list ranged from lukewarm to outraged on Twitter.
@KwestaDaKAR deserves the 3rd place on the MTV Base Hottest MC's List. With 1- @CassperNyovest and 2 - @akaworldwidepic.twitter.com/Fplq8o83xL
— Virtuoso (@IamKidd_Tee) October 28, 2015
Yoh @SizweDhlomo I have to give it to you,Khuli is great but this year,he has not done enough to put him up in the top 5 #MtvBaseHottestMc
— #TheSpiritNeverDies (@ZaMa_khuma) November 27, 2015
Very impressed by the #MtvBaseHottestMc panel. Well thought out arguments. As much as I don't like Ifani, I respect him being in there.
— #TheJourney (@TumiMolekane) November 26, 2015
SA doesn't deserve Reason shem #MtvBaseHottestMc
— Buhle (@Afika_N) November 26, 2015
If Cassper is number one it will because of Fill Up The Dome or his endorsements not his MUSIC. #MtvBaseHottestMc Don't @ me ✌
— Sethabile Hlengwa (@_sthabee_) November 26, 2015
SA’s Hottest MCs 2015” premieres on MTV Base (DStv Channel 322) on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 November at 16:30 CAT.
A full 1 hour special will air on Saturday 28 November at 11:00 CAT as part of the “Hottest MCs Takeover Weekend” on MTV Base.