A conversation on DJ Speedsta’s Up To Speed podcast has placed Big Zulu back at the centre of public debate, as questions around his position in South African hip hop resurfaced during a candid exchange between the host and his guests. The discussion unfolded on Episode 11, where Mswenko Franko and co-hosts Fif_Laaa and Okayswisher explored how the artist fits into the current understanding of rap culture and its leading voices.
The moment that sparked attention came when Mswenko Franko directly asked, “Is Big Zulu a rapper?” The question shifted the tone of the conversation, opening space for a broader reflection on artistry and recognition. DJ Speedsta responded with certainty, saying, “Yes, he is.” The exchange immediately set the stage for a deeper look at how Big Zulu is perceived beyond his catalog.
From there, Mswenko Franko raised another layer to the debate, questioning why Big Zulu is often left out of conversations around the country’s strongest lyricists. That point pushed the discussion into the balance between technical skill, popularity and influence, especially within a genre known for valuing wordplay and competitive ranking.
DJ Speedsta then reflected on his early encounters with Big Zulu during the Back To The City platform, a space known for showcasing raw talent and sharpening lyrical ability in cyphers. He recalled seeing him in those early stages before his rise to mainstream attention, describing how the journey shifted over time as recognition grew.
“I know Big Zulu from Back To The City, that other stage,” Speedsta explained. “Then he made it, and then he also understood, like okay, sharp, yes, I can rap, but my purpose is bigger than rap.”
Big Zulu has built his name through commanding delivery and storytelling that connected deeply with everyday experiences. Over the years, he expanded his sound through, bringing together collaborators and shaping a catalogue that moves between hip hop and maskandi influences while maintaining a strong cultural identity.
His evolution has positioned him as more than just an MC in competitive spaces. Instead, his work reflects a broader intention that stretches into representation, language and community connection. This approach has sparked ongoing discussion about where he fits when lists of top rappers are compiled, especially among audiences who prioritise pure lyricism.
Speedsta also emphasised the intention behind Big Zulu’s path, noting his wider focus within music and culture. “Big Zulu is for his people,” he said. “So I think he tries his best to still remain a rapper and a hip hop artist, but still tries to bring in the rest of the Inkabi Nation. I could be wrong, but in terms of him being a rapper, 100%.”
The conversation ultimately highlighted the layered nature of recognition in South African hip hop, where impact, artistry and reach often intersect in different ways. Big Zulu’s name continues to sit within that ongoing discussion, shaped by both his lyrical foundation and his broader cultural role.
