“Didn’t Think You’d Like the Song or Me,” Emtee to Pearl Thusi on His Hit Song Titled After Her

Emtee has taken a moment to reflect on a story that once defined a small part of his early career and it all circles back to Pearl Thusi. The rapper recently revisited a time he dropped his hit single after her, being the one that captured his admiration for the actress and television star, by sharing it on his Instagram with heartfelt words that revealed both humility and surprise.

“Didn’t think you’d like the song or me,” he wrote, quoting his own emotions as he reflected on the track he named after her. His post felt more than nostalgic but it carried a sense of appreciation for a connection that, though brief and professional, symbolized a unique chapter in his rise as one of South Africa’s most influential artists.

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That moment between the two dates back to when Emtee released his song Pearl Thusi, a record that quickly became a talking point for its boldness and charm. At the time, he described her as someone who inspired confidence and represented grace in the entertainment world. “She’s the best. I don’t think there’s anyone else like her,” he had said then, showing open admiration while acknowledging that he’d “outgrown his longtime crush.”

Years later, his decision to reshare that memory shows how time has shaped his perspective. It’s less about the infatuation and more about respect being both for Thusi and for the evolution of his own journey. His words, simple and genuine, revealed an artist looking back at how far he’s come since the early days when every gesture, song and shout-out carried deep meaning.

Emtee’s gesture resonated with fans who have watched his growth from the young artist who boldly sang about his crush to a seasoned musician unafraid to express gratitude. His reflection wasn’t about reigniting the past, but it was about honouring it. And in doing so, he reminded many that sometimes, the stories we once lived through quietly shape the artists we later become.