God bless the day I decided to explore one of Mmasechaba Spark’s “The Boom Box Playlists”, because that very series introduced me to a talent I had shamefully overlooked—Horid The Messiah. It was through the TBB: In Case You Didn’t Know playlist that I stumbled upon this gem. The track that opened the gateway to Horid’s captivating music was “INKUNZI” (with Blue Pappi). From that moment, I was hooked, eager to delve into the rest of Horid’s catalog. There’s something exhilarating about discovering an artist with not just a few singles, but a whole discography to their name—it’s the same rush as a drug, a euphoric hit that lingers. And that’s exactly the feeling I got when I unearthed the musical treasure that is the 21-year-old rapper.
Listen to I N K U N Z I by Horid The Messiah and Blue Pappi here
Horid The Messiah (also known as Baby Jesus), born Nhlanhla Kefentse Buthelezi, hails from Irotseng, a town tucked away in the North West province, a region with a rich hip hop pedigree, the very soil that has given birth to South African hip hop titans like Cassper Nyovest, Maglera Doe Boy, and the late, legendary HHP (Hip Hop Pantsula). It was in November 2023 that I stumbled upon “IV Tapes II”, a mixtape that instantly embedded itself in my subconscious with its blend of brevity and brilliance. With a mere 19-minute runtime, this eight-track collection manages to encapsulate Horid’s raw artistry, delivering an experience that is both succinct and satisfying- yet leaves you craving more.
Listen to IV Tapes II by Horid The Messiah here
Among the standout tracks is “Lead The Way”, an introspective piece where Horid reflects on his musical journey with both vulnerability and ambition. The production is minimalistic yet powerful, with melancholic synths underscoring his storytelling. “Road To Riches” the next song , is a braggadocious anthem of success and manifestation, carried by a hypnotic hook and thunderous bass lines that rattle the listener’s core. God Bless offers a contrasting spiritual layer, a deeply personal prayer for protection and guidance, as Horid’s faith resonates through every line. The tape also features bangers like “Big Steppa” , “Smokey Robinson”, “Endangered” and Nonchalant IV(with BeloSalo and Uunathi) , showcasing his versatility, but it’s “Me Vs Me” that truly stands out like a sore thumb. In this track, Horid pours his soul onto the canvas, painting vivid imagery with his lyrical prowess, reflecting on the struggles and triumphs of self-discovery.
Listen to Streetwise II by Horid The Messiah here
Isukile Official Music Video shot by : keaheadless
But Horid didn’t stop there. Fast forward to February 6, 2024; he gifted us with “Streetwise II”, a 2-pack single that includes the tracks “Osama” and “Triumph”(with YungKiddReezy). This was quickly followed by the sequel, “Streetwise III”, released on September 20, 2024. Streetwise III is an assertion of dominance by the rapper beautifully complemented by pristine production contributions from Soggy Rose, Euan, Bigga Beatz and Lexie Audemars . The EP is led by the blistering “Isukile”, a two-minute and forty-second sonic fireball produced by Soggy Rose, initially released on May 31, 2024. The track is pure energy, demanding the listener’s body to move with its irresistibly infectious rhythm. The layered production blends hard-hitting beats with subtle melodic nuances, creating a groove that latches onto you. “Isukile” translates to “It has started”—and indeed, the song serves as Horid’s bold proclamation of his unstoppable rise, a message to detractors to fall back. His assertive delivery is punctuated by the hook’s sharp “Fuseg, suka,” driving home the track’s defiant tone. The synergy between the production’s infectious elements and Horid’s slick bars makes this the perfect introduction to the EP.
Streetwise III Artwork and Tracklist by : the_dxrector
On “Rosebank Freestyle”, Horid dives into a gritty, trap-laden beat that serves as the perfect canvas for his razor-sharp bars. Here, he addresses his competition and reflects on his hunger for success, channeling raw emotion through his flow. Horid’s wit and raw energy are on full display as he delivers resonating bars like “Fuck the drama, asikho Isdingo”– a subtle nod for those who understand this double entendre. The track drips with swagger, a testament to his confidence as he continues to prove he’s a force to be reckoned with. “2192 Freestyle” follows, carrying a similarly hard-hitting trap aesthetic, but with a twist. Horid seamlessly weaves between English, Tswana, and Zulu, asserting his identity as a trailblazer in the rap game, claiming his messianic role to save hip hop from the “fakes” and from mediocrity.
The EP concludes on an introspective note with “Grateful” , featuring Ficz and Mandae. This track is a soulful masterpiece, blending alternative rap influences with a laid-back, sangfroid, almost ethereal vibe. The production has a minimalist charm, with its delicate instrumentation allowing Horid’s gratitude to shine through in his lyrics. He offers thanks to God for his journey, reflecting on moments of hardship and personal growth. Ficz, with his UK roots, adds a fresh dynamic to the track, his poignant verse steeped in British rap traditions, while Mandae’s emotive hook pulls at the heartstrings, giving the song its emotional weight. “Grateful” serves as a beautiful finale, reminding listeners of Horid’s humility and deeper connection to his art.
Listen to Streetwise III by Horid The Messiah here
With each release, Horid The Messiah continues to prove that dynamite truly comes in small packages. His explosive energy and fire-spitting bars place him head and shoulders above the competition. At just 21 years old, he’s standing tall as the self-proclaimed messiah of South African rap—rescuing the genre from mediocrity. It’s refreshing to witness the rising stars of South African Hip Hop bring unmatched passion and relentless work ethic to the table, setting themselves up as the future of the culture. Horid is one of those young talents leading the charge in making South African Hip Hop great again.
Listen to Streetwise III Here: http://li.sten.to/stiii
Follow Horid The Messiah Here: https://www.instagram.com/horid.the.messiah?igsh=NXBtNWNqcjJsZm1y
