Mthembeni Ndeu, better known by his stage name Emtee (stylized as eMTee), emerged as a prominent South African rapper hailing from Rockville, Soweto. Engaging in talent showcases from a young age, Emtee’s musical journey took flight at the tender age of 17. In 2015, he made waves with his debut smash hit “Roll Up,” marking the inception of his illustrious career.
Emtee
| Birth name | Mthembeni Ndevu |
|---|---|
| Born | 17 September 1992 Matatiele, South Africa |
| Origin | Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa |
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| Occupation(s) |
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| Instrument(s) | Vocals, marimba |
| Years active | 2010–present |
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Signed to Ambitiouz Entertainment, Emtee unleashed his inaugural album “Avery” the same year, a commercial triumph that eventually earned platinum certification from the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA).
Career Beginnings
Emtee’s journey in music began at the age of 17 when he immersed himself in talent shows, showcasing his rap skills and captivating audiences. His talent caught the attention of industry insiders, leading to collaborations and opportunities that would shape his career.
In 2015, Emtee made waves with his debut hit single “Roll Up,” which catapulted him into the spotlight. The track garnered widespread acclaim and established Emtee as a rising star in the South African music scene. His subsequent singles, including “We Up,” further solidified his place in the industry.
Emtee’s debut album, “Avery,” released in 2015, was a commercial success, earning him critical acclaim and accolades. The album’s chart-topping singles and Emtee’s distinct style propelled him to new heights. His follow-up albums, “Manando” (2017) and “DIY 2” (2018), showcased his growth as an artist and solidified his position as a trailblazer in the rap game.
In 2019, Emtee embarked on a new chapter in his career, parting ways with his former record label to establish Emtee Records under his company, African Trap Movement. This move marked a significant milestone for Emtee, allowing him greater creative control and autonomy over his music.
Emtee’s third studio album, “Logan,” released in 2021, debuted at number one in South Africa, further cementing his status as a powerhouse in the music industry. With the success of “Logan” and anticipation building for his upcoming album, “DIY 3,” Emtee continues to push boundaries and defy expectations.
Personal Life:
Beyond his music career, Emtee is a devoted husband and father. He shares a loving relationship with his childhood sweetheart, Nicole Chinsamy, whom he married in 2019. Together, they have two sons, Avery and Logan, and a daughter, Nairobi, each serving as inspirations for Emtee’s musical journey.
Emtee’s resilience, talent, and dedication to his craft have earned him a place among South Africa’s most influential artists, and his story continues to inspire aspiring musicians around the world.
Discography
Studio albums:
- Avery
- Released: 4 December 2015
- Label: Ambitiouz Entertainment
- Formats: CD, digital download
- Certification: Platinum
- Manando
- Released: 15 September 2017
- Label: Ambitiouz Entertainment
- Formats: CD, digital download
- DIY 2
- Released: 21 September 2018
- Label: Ambitiouz Entertainment
- Formats: CD, digital download
- DIY 3
- Released: PENDING
- Label: Emtee Records
- Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
- Logan
- Released: 9 April 2021
- Label: Emtee Records
- Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
Extended plays:
- DIY
- Released: July 2015
- Label: DogMow Studios
- Formats: CD, digital download
Singles:
- “Roll Up” (2015)
- “Pearl Thusi” (2015)
- “Roll Up (Re-Up)” featuring Wizkid & AKA (2015)
- “Couldn’t” (A-Reece featuring Emtee) (2016)
- “Amamenemene” (2016)
- “My People” (2016)
- “Ngeke” featuring Fifi Cooper (2016)
- “We Up” (2016)
- “Winning” featuring Nasty C (2017)
- “Ghetto Hero” (2017)
- “Corner Store” (2017)
- “My Way” featuring Sims (2017)
- “Me and You” featuring Tiwa Savage (2017)
- “My Enemies” (2017)
- “Manando” (2017)
- “Plug” (2018)
- “Thank You” (2018)
- “Lesson” (2018)
- “Smogolo” featuring Snaayman (2019)
- “Wave” (2020)
- “Brand New Day” featuring Lolli (2020)
- “Johustleburg” (2020)
Awards and nominations:
- 2015 South African Hip Hop Awards:
- Song of The Year: “Roll Up” – Won
- 2016 Metro FM Music Awards:
- Best Music Video – Won
- Best Remix – Won
- Best Hip Hop Album: Avery – Won
- Best New Artist – Nominated
- Listeners Choice Award – Won
- 22nd South African Music Awards:
- Album of the Year: Avery – Nominated
- Male Artist of the Year – Nominated
- Newcomer of the Year – Nominated
- Best Rap Album: Avery – Won
- Amstel Record of the Year: “Roll Up” – Won
- 2016 BET Awards Viewers’ Choice:
- Best New International Act – Nominated
- 2017 AFRIMA Awards:
- Best male artiste in South Africa – Nominated
- 2019 SAMA Awards:
- Best Hip Hop Album: DIY 2 – Nominated
- 2022 Global Music Awards Africa:
- Hip Hop artist – Won
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