Ayanda Ngcobo, older brother and longtime manager of South African rapper Nasty C, has marked the artist’s win at the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA) as a milestone in a decade-long family partnership.
Nasty C’s album Free won Best Hip Hop Album at the ceremony held at Sun City Superbowl in South Africa. The project was released in 2025 through the rapper’s Tall Racks imprint and represents a chapter in his move toward greater creative and business independence.
In a social media post on Saturday, Ngcobo reflected on the decision his younger brother made ten years ago to bring him into music.
“10 years ago my brother said, ‘Come do this music thing with me; fast forward to today we won best hip hop album independently,” Ngcobo wrote.
He credited Nasty C, whose real name is Nsikayesizwe David Junior Ngcobo, for believing in him and showing that they could compete at the highest level without compromising their independence. He also thanked his wife and dedicated the milestone to the Ngcobo family.
Partnership built in Durban#
The brothers’ working relationship began during Nasty C’s early years in Durban, South Africa, as the rapper built a profile through mixtapes and established himself as one of South Africa’s most promising young hip-hop acts. Ayanda Ngcobo took on a behind-the-scenes role guiding the business side of the career.
Their collaboration has spanned several projects, including:
- Bad Hair
- Strings and Bling
- Zulu Man with Some Power
- Free
Tall Racks has become central to Nasty C’s independent vision, with ownership and control forming the core of the brothers’ approach.
SAMA recognition#
The Best Hip Hop Album award for Free gives public validation to the path the brothers have built. Ngcobo’s message focused less on the spotlight and more on the journey from a family decision to a music partnership.
“This 1 is for the Ngcobo’s to another 10 years with God on our side,” he added.
