SA: Nasty C drops ‘Big Timing’ ft. Tellaman from FREE Deluxe project

The track forms part of FREE Deluxe, an extended version of Nasty C’s FREE project, and reunites the two artists after previous collaborations over the course of their careers.

According to information accompanying the release, the song explores themes of ambition, success and personal growth, while reflecting on the pair’s long-standing working relationship and experiences within the music industry.

Nasty C said the song was created during a period of personal and creative clarity.

“I was in a very clear space when I made ‘Big Timing’,” he said. “I wanted something that felt celebratory, but not empty. It is confidence, but it is also gratitude. It is me looking around and realising the people I started with are still here, and we are not just surviving anymore, we are moving properly now.”

The collaboration marks another project between the two Durban-born artists, who have worked together since the early stages of their careers.

Nasty C said Tellaman’s involvement in the project reflected their long-standing connection.

“Tellaman is a very old friend. I consider him a brother,” he said. “We came up together in the industry and spent a lot of time in studio together. It was only natural that he does a song with me on the FREE Deluxe project. ‘Big Timing’ was the perfect song for us to do.”

The release arrives as Nasty C continues to expand his catalogue following the FREE Deluxe project, which builds on themes of ambition and artistic development.

Speaking about his current outlook, the rapper said his focus has shifted away from external approval.

“At this point in my career, I am not chasing validation the same way. I know what I have built, I know what I have survived, and I know where I am going. ‘Big Timing’ is me saying we dreamed about this when things were not glamorous. Now that the timing is bigger, the intention is still the same,” he said.

Nasty C and Tellaman are among a group of artists from Durban who have played a role in shaping contemporary South African hip hop and R&B, with both establishing careers that have extended beyond domestic audiences.