Emtee Speaks Out Against Diss Tracks: “I’m a Hit Maker, Not a Backpack Cypher Rapper.” Amid the ongoing buzz in the South African hip-hop scene following Big Zulu’s controversial “200 Bars” diss track, one of the country’s most notable artists, Emtee, has made it clear where he stands on the subject of diss tracks.
As many artists either responded to or refrained from Big Zulu’s lyrical shots, Emtee took to social media to express his thoughts on the matter, stamping his position as an artist focused on making hits, not engaging in rap battles.
Emtee is known for chart-topping tracks like “Roll Up” and “Pearl Thusi,” and has always distinguished himself from the raw, battle-centric nature of hip-hop’s diss culture. While some fans have expected him to respond to Big Zulu’s diss, Emtee remained unfazed.
The “Logan” hitmaker took to X to voice his stance on diss tracks, making it clear that it’s not his lane. Emtee, known for his life-changing hits, emphasized he’s not here for cypher battles but to create impactful music. In his post, he shared that diss tracks can lead to deadly outcomes, and as a father of three, he values his life too much to be drawn into that negativity. His priority is staying alive to care for his kids, not engaging in petty rap feuds.
“People die cos of “beef”. My kids still need me so leave me out of this diss track shit. I’m a full blown musician. A make hip hop music. I’m not a backpack cypher rapper. I’m a hit maker and hits change lives. Diss tracks, u lose relationships, integrity and u look desperate,” Emtee wrote.
The “200 Bars” track, which dropped to much fanfare, saw Big Zulu taking aim at several notable figures in the game, including Emtee, Cassper Nyovest, and Duncan. While Duncan and F-eezy responded to Big Zulu, Emtee’s refusal to engage sparked a broader conversation about the relevance of diss tracks in the modern era of South African hip-hop.
Many fans applauded his perspective, commending his commitment to crafting music with a lasting impact rather than getting caught up in fleeting diss tracks. However, not everyone was impressed—some critics took jabs at him, calling him a coward and accusing him of backing down from a challenge.
