Nasty C Explains Why Freestyles Still Have A Place In Hip-Hop. Award-winning South African rapper Nasty C believes freestyle rap remains a valuable part of hip-hop culture, even as the genre’s evolving sound makes the skill less critical for today’s rising artists.
Speaking candidly about the role of freestyles in an artist’s career, Nasty C reflected on how the art form helped him earn recognition early in his journey and connect with both fans and respected figures within the industry.
“I think it’s still such a really dope part of this whole hip-hop thing,” he said, emphasising that freestyling continues to serve as an important gateway for artists looking to showcase their talent beyond recorded music.
According to the rapper, many aspiring musicians underestimate the impact a strong freestyle can have on building an audience. He revealed that some of his earliest support came directly from freestyle performances, which helped earn him credibility among peers and influential figures he admired.
“I got a lot of fans and a lot of respect and nods from people who I respected just off of the freestyle,” he explained.
That exposure, he added, often translated into deeper engagement with his music, encouraging listeners to explore his albums and follow his broader artistic journey.
Despite his appreciation for freestyling, Nasty C acknowledged that the modern landscape of hip-hop has shifted. With contemporary rap styles often prioritising melody, production, and vibe-driven performances, technical freestyle ability is no longer a prerequisite for success.
“I think it should never go away,” he said. “But with this current sound of hip-hop, it’s not really necessary, because you’re not gonna get that on the album.”
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