DJ Speedsta Opens Up On Paying Anatii R200 000 For “Special Somebody” Collab

DJ Speedsta Opens Up On Paying Anatii R200 000 For “Special Somebody” Collab. In a recent candid interview on The Inside Show, hosted by George Avakian and presented by Johnnie Walker Africa, South African DJ and broadcaster DJ Speedsta (Lesego Nkaiseng) shared the high-stakes gamble that propelled one of his breakthrough tracks to success.

When asked about the record that marked his career, Speedsta highlighted “Special Somebody”, the 2015 hit featuring heavyweights Cassper Nyovest, Riky Rick, and Anatii. Released under Sid Records, the track quickly became a fixture in the South African hip-hop scene, amassing millions of views on its official music video and securing Speedsta’s place in the industry.

The path to that success, however, was far from easy or inexpensive. Speedsta opened up about the massive financial leap he took at the time, confessing that he did not have the funds on hand.

“The first big record was probably ‘Special Somebody,’” he told Avakian. “It cost me a lot of money back then, which I didn’t have. I remember my best friend Fubz. He lent me the money. I told him, ‘Yoh, I need R200 000 to pay Anatii for his feature.’ He said, ‘Are you mad?’ I said, ‘Trust me, I’ll pay you back.’”

He explained the breakdown of the costs in more detail. “The beat, R200 000 for the feature, and studio time because we were recording at his studio. I just didn’t realise I would have to pay it all at once.”

Speedsta’s story highlights the determination behind some of South Africa’s most memorable hip-hop collaborations from the mid-2010s. At a time when the local industry was thriving, but resources were scarce for emerging artists, Speedsta placed a bold bet on the track’s potential.

The tale also serves as a reminder of the grit required to break through in South African hip-hop. Vision, fearless risks, loyal friends, and sometimes a six-figure loan from your closest circle are part of the journey. Years later, with a flourishing radio career, podcast ventures like Up To Speed, and a lasting legacy in the scene, it is clear that the investment was worth it.

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