RAPPER, Cassper Nyovest is stepping back into the spotlight with confidence ahead of the release of his new single, Phunyuka Bamphethe.
The single was released on Friday, 22 May.
The 35-year-old, whose real name is Refiloe Phoolo, used the build-up to the release to address criticism surrounding his place in Mzansi hip-hop and his influence in the industry.
Taking to social media, Cassper rejected claims his success has been driven more by his business ventures than his music career.
"Thirteen years deep and y'all have manufactured the lie that I'm only as big as I am because of my brilliant business mind," he wrote.
"When promoters book me, they don't book me based on my business acumen. They book me to perform my HITS! I'm not a motivational speaker, I'm a SUPERSTAR!"
Over the years, Cassper has built a reputation not only as a rapper but also as a businessman, a boxer and an entertainment powerhouse. However, he made it clear music remains at the centre of his identity.
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Known for hit songs, Doc Shebeleza, Mama I Made It and Destiny, the rapper also explained why he chooses not to release music frequently, saying he refuses to create songs simply to remain visible in the public eye.
"I don't wanna be dropping music for the sake of dropping music. I wanna create something interesting. I don't wanna recreate songs or feelings for the sake of being in people's face. I needed to find something I find special and challenging to execute."
Cassper further responded to comments suggesting that fans expect him to "save" South African hip-hop through his latest release.
"How's that pressure put on me now when SA hip-hop says I'm not the one? I'm the one guy that's written off at all times, no matter how good the music or the numbers are," he said.
The rapper admitted the criticism and the disrespect he has faced over the years no longer affect him the way they once did.
"I don't care anymore. I'm doing me. This run is for ME and whoever is gonna like what I'm doing," he said.
With Phunyuka Bamphethe now officially released, fans are eager to see whether Cassper's latest era will mark another defining chapter in his career.
