YoungstaCPT

In the vast and dynamic realm of South African hip hop, few artists have made as profound and lasting an impact as YoungstaCPT. Born and raised in the heart of Cape Town, this prolific rapper has not only dominated the charts but has also used his platform to address social issues and inspire a new generation of artists. This comprehensive guide delves into the life, career, and influence of YoungstaCPT, shedding light on the journey that has made him an iconic figure in the music industry today. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his music, this exploration offers a deeper understanding of the man behind the beats, the lyrics, and the revolution.

Introduction: Who is YoungstaCPT?

Early Life and Influences of YoungstaCPT

YoungstaCPT, born Riyadh Roberts on 3rd December 1991, was brought up in the vibrant district of Wittebome in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town. His family background is a rich tapestry of cultures, with his mother of mixed heritage and his father of Malaysian descent. This cultural diversity in his immediate family and broader community played a significant role in shaping YoungstaCPT’s identity and would later deeply influence his music and artistry.

As a youngster, he was introduced to a variety of musical genres. His grandfather, a jazz musician, was a significant influence, exposing him to the world of music and its potential as a form of expression from a young age. YoungstaCPT was also deeply influenced by the unique sounds of the Cape Flats, a historically rich and culturally diverse area.

His love for hip-hop was ignited when he received a Snoop Dogg CD as a gift when he was about seven years old. This, combined with exposure to other rap icons such as Tupac Shakur and Nas, motivated him to explore the world of rap music. He was fascinated by the ability of these artists to tell powerful stories through their lyrics, and he began to see music as a tool for storytelling and social commentary.

From his teenage years, YoungstaCPT was active in the local hip hop scene, engaging in freestyle battles and writing his own lyrics. This period was crucial in honing his skills and developing his unique style. His lyrics often reflected his experiences growing up in Cape Town, providing a voice for those from similar backgrounds.

While his early life had its fair share of challenges, it was these experiences that shaped YoungstaCPT as an artist. His upbringing and influences are deeply embedded in his music, making him a standout figure in the South African hip hop scene.

YoungstaCPT’s Breakthrough in the Music Industry

YoungstaCPT’s journey in the music industry is a testament to his talent, tenacity, and his relentless passion for hip-hop. His major breakthrough came when he won a local rap battle competition in Cape Town in 2010. This victory helped him gain some initial recognition in the local hip-hop scene, and it marked the beginning of his professional career in music.

Over the next couple of years, YoungstaCPT released a series of mixtapes that showcased his unique storytelling abilities and his strong Cape Flats identity. The mixtapes were met with critical acclaim and helped solidify his place in the South African hip-hop scene. However, it was his breakout single, “Salutas”, released in 2014, that propelled him into the national spotlight. The track, a tribute to his hometown, resonated with a wide audience and established him as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

In 2019, after releasing an impressive 30 mixtapes, YoungstaCPT released his much-anticipated debut album “3T” (Things Take Time). The album, a deeply personal reflection on his life and experiences growing up in Cape Town, received widespread acclaim for its raw authenticity and powerful narratives. The album debuted at number one on the iTunes hip-hop charts and solidified his position as one of the most significant voices in South African hip-hop.

Throughout his career, YoungstaCPT has remained true to his roots, using his music as a platform to address social issues and represent the unheard voices of his community. His breakthrough in the music industry is not only a result of his undeniable talent, but also his commitment to telling stories that matter, making him a truly influential figure in the South African music scene.

Highlighting Key Tracks and Albums in YoungstaCPT’s Discography

YoungstaCPT’s discography is a testament to his prolific work ethic and commitment to his craft. With numerous albums and mixtapes to his name, his music stands as a powerful narrative of his experiences and perspectives.

One of his most impactful projects is the album “3T (Things Take Time)” released in 2019. This album is a sonic journey through YoungstaCPT’s life and the socio-political landscape of Cape Town. Standout tracks from the album include ‘YAATIE’, an ode to his upbringing and community, and ‘The Cape of Good Hope’, a vibrant anthem celebrating the resilience of the people from his hometown.

Prior to this, his mixtape “Kaapstads Revenge” produced in collaboration with producer J-Beatz in 2017, made waves in the local hip hop scene. The project carries a strong sense of place and identity, with tracks such as ‘Came, Saw, Conquered’ and ‘Whose Who In The Zoo’ showcasing his storytelling prowess and deep connection to his roots.

Other notable tracks that have garnered attention and acclaim include ‘Wes-Kaap’, featuring hip hop artist Ganja Beatz, a track that celebrates his Western Cape roots, and ‘Own 2020’, an anthem of ambition and determination released at the start of the year.

YoungstaCPT’s discography is rich and diverse, traversing a wide range of themes from social issues to personal introspection. Each track and album adds a new layer to his narrative, reinforcing his status as a significant voice in South African hip hop.

Impact and Influence on South African Hip Hop

YoungstaCPT’s influence on South African hip hop cannot be overstated. He is often credited for pushing the envelope of what South African rap can sound like, integrating local dialects and infusing his lyrics with distinctly South African narratives and experiences.

His music is a powerful exploration of identity, drawing heavily from his upbringing in Cape Town and the socio-political realities of South Africa. His use of Kaaps language in his lyrics has been groundbreaking in the mainstream hip hop scene, bringing to the forefront a local dialect that had been largely unrepresented. This has paved the way for other artists to embrace their regional identities and diversify the linguistic landscape of South African hip hop.

Moreover, YoungstaCPT’s music addresses pressing social issues, including poverty, crime, and racial tensions. He uses his platform to raise awareness and spark dialogue, positioning hip hop as a tool for social commentary and change. This has had a significant impact on the genre, inspiring a new generation of artists to use their music as a vehicle for social engagement.

By staying true to his roots and persistently championing local narratives, YoungstaCPT has contributed immensely to the growth and evolution of South African hip hop. He has challenged conventions, set new trends, and left an indelible mark on the music scene.

YoungstaCPT’s Collaborations and Notable Partnerships

YoungstaCPT’s career has been marked by notable collaborations and partnerships, both locally and internationally, that have significantly contributed to his rise in the music industry.

One of his most renowned collaborations is with fellow South African artist, Shane Eagle, on the track ‘AMMO’ which was released in 2021. The track combines YoungstaCPT’s hard-hitting verses with Shane Eagle’s introspective lyrics, making it a standout in both artists’ discographies.

Another significant partnership was with South African producer Ganja Beatz on the track ‘Wes-Kaap’. This collaboration encapsulates the spirit of the Western Cape, and it is a testament to YoungstaCPT’s deep ties to his community.

His work with South African DJ, Dr. Jules, on the track ‘Dagga’ also highlighted YoungstaCPT’s ability to cross genres and his versatility as an artist. The track was a major hit on local radio stations and dance floors.

On the international stage, YoungstaCPT has also collaborated with Canadian rapper, Tory Lanez, for a remix of Lanez’s hit ‘Luv’. This partnership exposed YoungstaCPT’s music to a broader audience and showcased his ability to hold his own against globally recognized artists.

These collaborations and partnerships not only amplify YoungstaCPT’s unique voice and talent but also underscore his commitment to pushing boundaries and creating a diverse and dynamic body of work.

Awards and Recognitions Received by YoungstaCPT

Over the course of his career, YoungstaCPT’s contributions to the South African music industry have not gone unnoticed, earning him various accolades and recognitions.

In 2020, his debut album “3T (Things Take Time)” brought him significant recognition, winning him the South African Hip Hop Award for Album of the Year. This was a major milestone in his career, as it solidified his place as one of South Africa’s most influential hip hop artists.

Furthermore, YoungstaCPT’s commitment to his craft and his community has also been recognized. In 2019, he was awarded the Voice of the Cape award by the Voice of the Cape Radio 91.3FM. This award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the community and used their platform to uplift others, a testament to YoungstaCPT’s activism and dedication to his roots.

In addition to these, he has been nominated for various other awards, including multiple nominations at the South African Music Awards (SAMAs), further highlighting his influence and success in the music industry.

Each of these awards and recognitions underlines the impact of YoungstaCPT’s music, both within the hip hop scene and the broader cultural landscape of South Africa. His work continues to resonate with a wide audience, earning him well-deserved acclaim and respect in the industry.

YoungstaCPT’s Role in Community and Activism

YoungstaCPT is more than just a hip hop artist; he’s also a community advocate and activist. His dedication to using his platform to highlight the socio-political issues of his hometown, Cape Town, particularly the Coloured communities, underscores his commitment to change.

His lyrics often illuminate the realities of life in the Cape Flats, addressing critical issues such as gang violence, drug abuse, and racial discrimination. This spotlight on often overlooked societal issues has sparked important conversations within and outside of his community.

Beyond his music, YoungstaCPT is also involved in various community projects. He has been known to participate in educational initiatives aimed at empowering young people. One such initiative is the “Lyricist Lab”, an event where he provides mentorship to aspiring artists, helping them to hone their skills and navigate the music industry.

Moreover, YoungstaCPT is also an ambassador for PUMA South Africa, a partnership through which he has championed the importance of supporting local talent and businesses. He often collaborates with local designers and uses these partnerships to highlight South African creativity and innovation on a global scale.

Whether through his music or his activism, YoungstaCPT continually strives to uplift his community and drive positive change. His dedication to his community sets him apart as a unique force in South African hip hop, underscoring the power of music as a tool for social change.

Conclusion

YoungstaCPT’s journey is a compelling example of the power of authenticity and dedication. From his early life in Cape Town to his rise in the music industry, he has consistently used his platform to tell stories that resonate deeply with his audience. His music is not just about catchy beats and lyrical prowess, but also about painting a vivid picture of the realities of life in his community.

His discography showcases a diverse range of themes and styles, and his collaborations and partnerships have only further cemented his place in the South African hip hop scene. His recognition through various awards speaks volumes about his talent and impact.

However, YoungstaCPT’s work extends beyond music. His involvement in community activism and his efforts to uplift the youth are testaments to his commitment to making a difference. He is not just a musician, but also a role model for many young people in South Africa and beyond.

As YoungstaCPT continues to evolve as an artist, there’s no doubt that he will continue to inspire and influence the South African music scene and beyond. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of music, and a reminder that art can be a powerful tool for social commentary and change.