Nasty C Reveals He Started Making ‘Head Up’ Nearly Five Years Ago

South African rap star Nasty C has opened up about the long creative journey behind his song “Head Up,” revealing that the track was first conceived almost five years ago before becoming the powerful record fans hear today.

Speaking about the making of Head Up 2.0, which features the Soweto Gospel Choir, Nasty C explained that the song began as a simple idea built around a single chorus.

“Fun fact, I made this song about five years ago, maybe six. Back then it was just a chorus, and that was enough for me,” he said.

According to the rapper, the hook alone carried the emotional message he needed at the time, so he didn’t rush to complete the full song. Instead, he allowed the idea to grow with him over the years.

Nasty C revealed that he only finished the full version of the track about eight months ago, after going through several personal highs and lows that shaped the final verses.

“I went through a lot — ups and downs — and it gave me a story to tell in the verse,” he added.

That emotional journey helped transform “Head Up” into a deeply reflective and motivational record. The updated version, Head Up 2.0, features the Soweto Gospel Choir, whose harmonies bring a rich, spiritual layer to the song’s message of resilience and hope.

The accompanying music video visually reinforces the themes of perseverance, faith, and growth, making the release both a musical and storytelling moment for the Durban-born artist.

From a simple chorus written years ago to a fully realized collaboration, “Head Up” reflects Nasty C’s creative evolution and the power of patience in music. The track stands as a reminder that some songs take time — and life experience — to truly come alive.