If you haven’t already heard of NEST, it’s time to get familiar with the young, dynamic rapper making waves in the South African hip hop scene. Born Otlotleng Ernest Koitsioe in Rustenburg, North West, NEST is a rapper who’s been grinding hard since the age of 10—and he’s only getting started. From a young age, music flowed through his veins, thanks to his mom’s influence, who used to play records for him and share her love for music. Fast forward to today, and NEST is not just a force to be reckoned with in South Africa, but his name is also starting to echo far beyond the borders.
NEST’s Journey: From Bedroom Beats to Hip Hop Stardom
NEST’s journey into music began when he was just 14, but his love for rap had already begun at the age of 10. Growing up with influences like Lil Wayne, Drake, AKA, and DaLes, NEST quickly found his voice and began making music that resonates with the streets. But don’t think he’s a one-track artist—his music is shaped by his diverse influences, from family to his hip hop heroes.
Since his first release in 2018, NEST has been on a steady rise. He’s released five EPs, multiple singles, and mixtapes, showcasing his versatility and growth as an artist. His 12-track mixtape, including the standout track “Woah” featuring Luna Florentino, really put him on the map. The “Woah” music video, directed by the acclaimed Kuda Jemba, has amassed over 10k views on YouTube and was even playlisted on Channel O. Not bad for a young artist making his way in a crowded music industry.
Performing with the Best
NEST isn’t just about dropping fire tracks; he’s also about bringing the energy to the stage. He’s shared the spotlight with some of South Africa’s biggest names, including Costa Titch, Manu WorldStar, and K.O.. And in 2020, he rocked the stage at Rustenburg’s legs of Cassper Nyovest’s AMN Tour and Nasty C’s Zulu Man With Some Power Tour—talk about making your mark early!
In 2021, NEST’s star continued to rise when he opened for Khuli Chana at Ten Flags, winning the chance to feature on DJ Sabby’s “Next Up” collaborative project. The same year, he made it to the prestigious HypeCollector studio camp, where he got to collaborate with mainstream artists and learn from the best in the game.
The Big Break with DaLes
One of the highlights of NEST’s career came when his song “230”—produced by Wrld2krazy—caught the attention of DaLes, a hip hop hall of famer. The connection was made, and suddenly NEST was rubbing shoulders with the very artists he’d grown up admiring. That kind of recognition speaks volumes about his skill, hustle, and determination to make it big.
Now, with the year 2025 just around the corner, NEST is preparing to drop his next big banger. His upcoming track, “Don J”, set to release in April, promises to be the summer anthem we’ve all been waiting for. With his unique style and ability to craft tracks that make you want to dance, “Don J” is bound to make some serious noise.
A Look Back at NEST’s Projects
So far, NEST has released some seriously impressive projects that have allowed him to grow as an artist while constantly pushing the boundaries of his sound. Here's a look at what he’s dropped so far:
Hear Me Out (2019)
Only Gets Better (2020)
DIAMOND BABY (2021)
Lisztomania (2024)
Wait Till You Get It (2024)
With every project, NEST has fine-tuned his sound and built on his experiences. From his humble beginnings in Rustenburg to the stages of big-name tours, he’s proven that the grind never stops.
"STUCK"
NEST’s new track “STUCK” is an absolute vibe! From the moment the beat drops, you’re hooked. The catchy rhythm combined with NEST’s smooth flow makes it impossible not to vibe along. His clever wordplay and laid-back delivery create an infectious energy that sticks with you long after the track ends. It’s the perfect mix of feel-good vibes and clever rap, making “STUCK” one of those songs you'll keep hitting repeat on. Whether you're chilling or looking for a track to get you in the groove, “STUCK” delivers all the right energy!
What’s Next for NEST?
With his talent, ambition, and ever-evolving sound, NEST is on track to be one of South Africa’s biggest hip hop exports. His work ethic, combined with his ability to create catchy hooks, meaningful lyrics, and a fresh vibe, sets him apart from the crowd. As he gears up for his summer anthem release and continues to build on his momentum, there’s no telling just how high this rising star will go in 2025 and beyond.
Stay tuned—NEST is only just getting started, and trust us, you won’t want to miss what’s coming next.