Big Xhosa is entering a new phase of his career, and his latest single “Wapheni Imali” offers a glimpse into the direction he is taking.
The Xhosa rapper has explained the straightforward message behind the track while reflecting on his journey from viral internet sensation to a more established artist. He also opened up about his new partnership with Asanda Empires, which he believes could help take his career to another level.
Big Xhosa Wants Men To Spoil Their Women
Speaking to SA Hip Hop Mag, Big Xhosa explained that there is no complicated meaning behind “Wapheni Imali.”
The song is built around a simple message: men should appreciate their partners by showing them love, attention and generosity.
“I’m simply telling them to spoil their women and shower them with money and gifts,” Big Xhosa explained. “There is no complicated message.”
The rapper said he wants the song to encourage men to value the women in their lives while also encouraging women to recognise their worth and ask for what they deserve.
For Big Xhosa, the message is ultimately about appreciation.
“I want us to start showing appreciation to women. They are the greatest and the best gift God gave to men.”
That sentiment gives the playful track a broader message about relationships, appreciation and treating partners with care.
Big Xhosa Says His Music Has Become More Serious
Although “Wapheni Imali” has a playful concept, Big Xhosa says listeners should not mistake that approach for the comedic persona that helped introduce him to the mainstream.
The rapper previously used humour as a deliberate strategy to attract attention and establish a platform. However, he says that phase of his career has now evolved.
“That used to be the case because I wanted to use humour to build a platform. I’ve since taken a different direction, and my music is very serious,” he said.
The shift represents a significant change for an artist whose early career was closely associated with viral moments and provocative content.
From Viral Diss Track To Building A Career
Big Xhosa first gained widespread attention through a viral diss track, a moment that quickly placed him in the spotlight and opened doors within the music industry.
Rather than allowing that attention to fade, he says the experience gave him an opportunity to pursue music professionally.
“It’s opened doors for me and allowed me to make a living doing what I love and never have to work a job; that’s how it changed my life,” he explained.
But Big Xhosa recognises that viral success was only the beginning.
According to the rapper, the years since that breakthrough have been about learning, developing his craft and proving that he could turn attention into a sustainable career.
“The diss track gave me the attention, but I had to show people that I could actually build a career.”
Financial Challenges Have Shaped His Journey
One of the biggest obstacles Big Xhosa says he has faced has been working without the financial backing and infrastructure that comes with a traditional record label.
He believes limited resources can make it difficult for independent artists to fully execute their creative ideas.
“The challenges have always been not having a record label or financial support behind the talent. That restricts one from bringing the full vision to life,” he said.
Despite those challenges, Big Xhosa credits his belief in himself for keeping him moving forward.
“I believe in myself so much; I’m my biggest fan.”
That self-belief has remained a major part of his journey, particularly as he continues to move beyond the expectations created by his initial viral success.
Big Xhosa Enters A New Chapter With Asanda Empires
The rapper is now looking toward the future with renewed optimism following his partnership with Asanda Empires.
Big Xhosa believes the new management relationship could provide the support and infrastructure needed to unlock the next stage of his career.
“I’m hoping for a fruitful partnership, and that we become the biggest in the game. Watch out!”
With “Wapheni Imali” introducing a playful but uncomplicated message and his new management partnership opening another chapter, Big Xhosa appears determined to build a career that extends well beyond the viral moment that first put his name on the map.
The message is clear: the jokes may have helped him get noticed, but Big Xhosa is now focused on building something that lasts.
