Refiloe Maele Phoolo, known as Cassper Nyovest, was born on 16 December 1990 in Mahikeng, North West, South Africa. The son of Muzuki and Letsebela Phoolo, he was raised alongside his sister Tsholofelo, enduring the tragic loss of their brother Khotso in 2003.
A natural athlete, Nyovest attended Sol Plaatjie Secondary School and excelled in various sports. However, his true passion lay in music, which he began exploring at the age of 12. Despite failing his Grade 10 exams in 2006, Nyovest pursued his musical dreams, dropping out of school and moving to Johannesburg in 2007 to kickstart his career.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Nyovest's musical journey began in earnest when he formed the group Childhood Gangsta at 13. His next venture, Slow Motion, included producer Aashish Gangaram of Ganja Beatz. After a brief stint with motswako label Impact Sounds, Nyovest went independent, forging his path with determination.
He caught the eye of the late rapper Hip Hop Pantsula, featuring on "Wamo Tseba Mtho," which paved the way for his debut single "Gusheshe" in 2013. His establishment of Family Tree Records in 2014 marked a significant milestone, solidifying his status as an artist and entrepreneur.
Rise to Fame: Tsholofelo and Refiloe
Nyovest's debut album "Tsholofelo" (2014), named after his sister, included hit singles "Gusheshe" and "Doc Shebeleza." The album's success led to a platinum edition with new songs and collaborations, including artists like Casey Veggies and DJ Drama.
His concert, Fill Up The Dome (2015), was a landmark event, selling out Johannesburg's Ticketpro Dome. The release of his eponymous album "Refiloe" at this event was a strategic and successful move, earning gold certification on the first day.
Continued Success and Expanding Horizons
In the following years, Nyovest's musical journey continued with the critically acclaimed "Thuto" (2017) and the Kwaito-focused "Sweet and Short" (2019). His "Fill Up" concert series expanded to various stadiums, showcasing his growing popularity. Nyovest's creative versatility was further evidenced in his 2020 hip-hop track "Good For That" and his fifth studio album "Any Minute Now." In 2021, he delved into Amapiano with "Sweet And Short 2.0," featuring a plethora of talented artists.
Recent Ventures: Solomon and African Throne World Tour
2023 marked a new chapter for Nyovest with the announcement of his album "Solomon," released on September 15. Accompanying this was the African Throne World Tour, a collaboration with Nasty C, highlighting Nyovest's influence in African music. The lead single from "Solomon," "018," featuring Maglera Doe Boy, cemented Nyovest's status as a musical force.
Television and Business Ventures
Nyovest's talents extend beyond music into television and business. He became the host of "The Braai Show with Cass" on SABC 1 in September 2021, showcasing his charismatic personality. His entrepreneurial skills are evident in his ventures, including his sneaker company Root of Fame, liquor brand Billiato, and the successful Family Tree Records.
Boxing: A New Arena
Nyovest's foray into boxing added another dimension to his versatile career. His matches, "Fame vs Clout" and "Actor vs Musician," showcased his athletic prowess and brought a new audience to his already diverse fan base.
Personal Life and Controversies
Nyovest's personal life, including his relationship with actress Boity Thulo, has been a subject of public interest. His feud with rival AKA and legal disputes, particularly regarding the "#FillUp" trademark, have also been prominent in his career narrative.
Legacy and Influence
Cassper Nyovest's journey from a determined youngster in Mahikeng to a multifaceted icon in the South African music scene is a testament to his talent, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. As a rapper, songwriter, producer, and business mogul, Nyovest continues to shape the musical landscape, inspiring a new generation of artists. His story is one of ambition, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of dreams, making him a true pillar of South African music and culture.
Cassper Nyovest - Soul
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