DJ Maphorisa calls for unity in SA hip hop

Posted on February 19, 2026
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DJ Maphorisa suggests strategy for SA Hip Hop to thrive

Award-winning producer and DJ DJ Maphorisa has stirred conversation across social media after weighing in on the state of South African hip hop.

Taking to X, the hitmaker shared a candid post urging rappers to put aside divisions and work together.

“SA hiphop guys need to work together this camp camp thing is not working 💔,” he wrote.

The tweet quickly gained traction, drawing reactions from fellow artists and music fans who offered mixed views on the genre’s current direction.

Singer and performer Moonchild Sanelly showed support for Maphorisa’s stance, suggesting he is well positioned to bridge the gaps within the industry.

“Ur the one who is able to unite everyone Pho 🙌🏾 ego less always 💙,” she responded.

However, not everyone agreed on the root of the problem. Some users argued that the genre’s struggles began when local rappers adopted international influences too heavily.

“SA Hip Hop turned trash the moment these rappers duplicated American sound….Khuli Chana and Morafe can save it if it’s not too late,” one X user commented, referencing veteran rapper Khuli Chana and hip hop group Morafe.

Others defended hip hop’s competitive culture, insisting rivalry has always been part of its DNA.

“Unlike Amapiano, Hip Hop has always and will depend on beef to make numbers, it’s competitive like maskandi in SA…” another user wrote.

Still, many echoed Maphorisa’s call for collaboration, pointing to the unity seen within the amapiano movement.

“They need to collaborate to revive it,” one person said.

Another added, “Finally somebody said it, it’s sad man. Amapiano guys are so united, eat together, collaborate with each other, while Hip Hop is more about competition, for worse, non beneficial competition.”