Podcaster Thagki Says Usimamane Doesn’t Have Star Power. Podcaster and cultural commentator Thagki stirred conversation on social media with candid remarks about rising rapper Usimamane, questioning the artist’s “star power” despite acknowledging his musical ability and streaming success.
Speaking during a podcast episode, Thagki didn’t mince words: “Usimamane, indaba yakhe haikho. He’s trying, but the reception is just not there. People are streaming his music, but when it comes to live performances, I don’t know, man.”
While emphasising that his critique was not coming from a place of hate, Thagki shared a view that’s likely to divide hip hop circles: “They are gonna say I’m hating, you know, but I’m really not. I think he’s good. He’s just missing that star touch. It’s either you are a star or you’re not, my brother. It’s either you are born with it and you have it, or you don’t.”
He went on to compare Usimamane’s trajectory to that of A-Reece, an artist widely regarded as a self-made phenomenon with a fiercely loyal fanbase, built without heavy label machinery. “You will not be made by a record label, just like A-Reece. It has to be in you.”
The remarks come at a time when Usimamane has emerged as one of the most exciting voices in South African hip hop, boasting a catalogue that has not only captivated local audiences but also gained international recognition, even earning him a collaboration with global hip hop legend Rick Ross.
Usimamane, who’s been carving a lane for himself with consistent drops and collaborations, hasn’t responded publicly to the comments. Still, fans and industry voices are already chiming in—some defending the rapper’s journey and others agreeing that live performance charisma may be the missing puzzle piece.
Whether Thagki’s take is seen as tough love or too harsh, one thing: the road to stardom isn’t just paved with streams and lyrical finesse. In this game, it’s the ones who shine brightest on stage and off that stay etched in memory. And in Thagki’s eyes, Usimamane is still searching for that elusive glow.
