Nasty C On Crafting Unique Sounds for Different Types of Projects

Nasty C has shared insights into his creative process and how he tailors his sound to suit different types of musical projects. Speaking on a recent episode of the BBC World Service’s This Is Africa podcast, the award-winning artist explained how he adapts his music depending on whether he is working on a full album, a collaboration, or a single.

During the conversation, Nasty C reflected on his approach to balancing commercial appeal with musical authenticity. “If I’m making a project, for sure I’ll give you the conscious stuff because I love that stuff, I grew up on it,” he said. The rapper added that he always makes an effort to include meaningful and introspective material when putting together a complete body of work.

However, he noted that the creative process changes when working on singles or collaborations designed for a broader audience. “But if I’m making a song with another artist or I’m making a song that I want to be like a single and stuff like that, I know it has to be catchy,” he explained. “You can’t go too hard, make it a little bit melodic.”

Nasty C also emphasized the importance of accessibility in his music, revealing that he considers how different audiences might respond to a track. “If a girl can’t listen to it, trash, you know,” he said, suggesting that he aims to create music that connects across gender and genre lines while still maintaining his identity as a lyricist.

He went on to highlight the flexibility required when building a cohesive album. “If I’m making an album, yes I have to show you like my range,” he shared. According to Nasty C, this balance between depth and appeal helps him grow as an artist and reach a wider audience without compromising his roots.

The conversation on This Is Africa offered a rare look into the rapper’s mindset as he continues to expand his international reach. With multiple global collaborations and an evolving sound, Nasty C remains focused on crafting music that reflects both his versatility and his artistic values.

His comments reaffirm why he has become one of the most respected voices in African hip hop today, an artist who understands that sound selection is as important as the message itself.