South African rapper Emtee has reflected on his recent time in custody, describing the difficult experience as a turning point that gave him a fresh perspective on life.
The “Roll Up” hitmaker opened up about the experience during an interview on the Real Stuff Podcast with Da L.E.S and Maggz, where he discussed what he learned while in custody and how the experience changed his outlook.
Emtee says jail experience changed his perspective
Reflecting on his time behind bars, Emtee explained that one of the biggest lessons was recognising the humanity of the people around him.
Rather than viewing the experience only as a setback, the rapper said he has come to appreciate the perspective it gave him and the opportunity to move away from some of the habits he had previously been caught up in.
For Emtee, the experience appears to have prompted a period of self-reflection and a renewed approach to life.
Rapper spent 16 days in custody
Emtee spent 16 days at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre before being released on R2,000 bail on 2 September 2026.
His release followed the withdrawal of a case involving his estranged wife, Nicole Chinsamy. The matter related to an alleged breach of a 2023 protection order that prohibited contact with her and posts about her on social media.
The period attracted significant public attention, adding another challenging chapter to the rapper’s personal life.
His father, Lumkile Ndevu, previously described the experience as an “eye-opener” for his son and expressed hope that it would lead to important lessons.
A new chapter for Emtee
Emtee’s latest comments suggest that he is choosing to look forward rather than remain defined by the difficulties of the past.
The rapper has previously spoken publicly about sobriety and personal growth, while changes to his appearance earlier this year — including cutting off his signature dreadlocks — also marked a noticeable period of change.
Following his release, Emtee quickly returned to performing, appearing at the Cape Town Kota Festival alongside artists including Big Zulu.
He has also continued working on his music as he looks to the next stage of his career.
For the award-winning rapper, the latest chapter appears to be about more than simply moving on from a difficult experience. His reflections suggest a desire to use what happened as a catalyst for a different mindset and a fresh start.
Emtee’s journey continues — and his latest comments offer a glimpse into how he is approaching the road ahead.
