DJ Speedsta
DJ Speedsta has pushed back against accusations that he sidelines emerging artists in his sets, making it clear that critics may be speaking without ever experiencing his work behind the decks.
The debate unfolded on X after a user, @YandaMhlamvu, suggested that some DJs are not doing enough to help up-and-coming artists break through.
In the post, the user singled out Speedsta, writing: “Besides the rich kids, the other artists that aren’t rich didn’t get much help in order to get a breakthrough. Speedsta is one of the DJs who would rather play old classics instead of putting on the kids. Not saying there’s anything wrong playing classics, but uplift the kids too.”
Dismissing the criticism as narrative-driven, he replied: “98% of the people that say ‘I’m old, play old music etc’ have never even heard me play! 😂😂💀💀 Stop making excuses about everything to entertain a narrative. You’ve probably never heard me DJ in your life. Stop the Cap! 😭💀.”
His comments tap into a long-running conversation within South African hip hop about the responsibility DJs carry in shaping the culture.
With their playlists often determining which songs catch fire, selectors are frequently scrutinised for either leaning into nostalgia or pushing the next wave of artists.
The exchange quickly drew mixed reactions.
Some doubled down on the criticism, with user @yungdontrust responding, “I’ve heard you play Speedsta, you play old music.”
Others came to his defence, arguing that the backlash may be exaggerated. “People just hate you Speedy lol,” wrote @rollxcxstro.
98% of the people that say “ I’m old, play old music etc” have never even heard me play ! 😂😂💀💀
Stop making excuses about everything to entertain a narrative.
You’ve probably never heard me DJ in your life.
Stop the Cap! 😭💀
— DJ Speedsta (@speedstabro) February 11, 2026
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