Umlazi-born rapper Usimamane continues to make waves in South Africa’s hip-hop scene. With tracks like “Cheque”, “IMALI”, and “Star”, he’s been on a hot streak, but now he’s levelled up with the release of his debut album, 20th: Days Before Maud.

This 14-track project immediately grabs attention with its opener, “The Kulture”, where Usimamane flexes his lyrical muscle over a fire beat produced by Sibusiso Gift Kunene. The album is packed with ambition, reflecting on his rise from the streets to stardom while delivering exactly the kind of sound that’s made him a standout name. His unique blend of rap, trap and R&B melodies captures the grind and hunger of his background, connecting on a raw, emotional level.

Production-wise, 20th: Days Before Maud leans heavily on trap influences. Heavy-hitters like MashBeatz, Shane Jacobs, Mo.Rena and Lungelo Msomi all contribute, each adding their own flavor to the mix, creating a sonic landscape that feels both futuristic and rooted in the South African hustle. 

The album also comes stacked with a star-studded line-up. Usimamane called in some serious reinforcements, bringing in South African heavyweights like K.O, Nasty C, Okmalumkoolkat, Sjava, YoungstaCPT, ANATII and more—a who’s who of the local scene, adding to the album’s already undeniable energy.

Stream the album in full after the jump.