Selecting an #HONORX9dOpenVerseChallenge winner from over 500 entries was never going to be easy. The social media driven public vote had the tough job of working through tracks, bars, beats and flow, listening closely until one verse closed – confident, composed and impossible to ignore.
In this year’s instalment of the #HONORX9dOpenVerseChallenge the fire verse belonged to Nox C. For her, the next few days and weeks are set to feel surreal, stepping into the spotlight alongside some of the biggest names shaping Mzansi’s sound right now.
“Winning the #HONORX9dOpenVerseChallenge is an honour I don’t take lightly. To be chosen from so many talented artists means everything. This platform gives artists like me real exposure, real opportunity, and the confidence to take our sound further,” said Nox C
The local music scene has always had a tempo that thrived on collaboration. From township roots to global recognition, Amapiano, 3-step and electronic sounds continue to push South African creativity onto international stages. This year’s edition of the challenge amplified that unbreakable spirit with a super-sized and heavyweight line-up on the original track.
Setting Studio Standards Soaring
Peak-levels, pro-performances and a star-packed studio – This is what DJ Tira, Dlala Thukzin & Thukuthela featuring Naledi Aphiwe, Jazzworx, GL and Zeh McGeba thrive on. With that calibre of artists shaping the sound, any verse entering that space had to carry weight, presence and personality.
The Prize package
As part of the prize package, Nox C walks away with R30,000 in cash, a brand-new HONOR X9d, and an exclusive studio session with DJ Tira, Dlala Thukzin & Thukuthela alongside Naledi Aphiwe, Jazzworx, GL and Zeh McGeba.
From One Crown to the Next
Last year’s winner, Thapelo “Soul taker” Khoza, reflected on how the challenge reshaped his path: “Winning the Song Challenge last year was the spark that changed everything for me. It wasn’t just about the title; it was the validation and the platform it provided to finally share my voice with a wider audience. This past year has been a whirlwind of growth, and I’m so grateful to this community for being the launchpad for my journey.” His journey shows that the challenge is more than a moment, much more. It is momentum. It is access. It is elevation.
When Technology Amplifies Talent
HONOR CEO, Fred Zhou, said that “The #HONORX9dOpenVerseChallenge reflects exactly what the HONOR X9d stands for; resilience, creativity and the Unbreakable courage to stand out. Each year we see extraordinary talent emerge, and Nox C performance shows what happens when innovation empowers ambition.”
Also, increased playtime Series, the HONOR X9d continues to champion creators who move fast, think boldly and refuse to settle. From studio sessions to street playlists, the rhythm of innovation continues to strike the right chord in Mzansi.
Availability and Offers
- The HONOR X9d is now available in two Colours: Sunrise Gold and Midnight Black for a recommended retail price of R9 999.
- HONOR Care Service Benefit Valued up to R2 999. 12 Month Free Accidental Damage Protection * Service promotional offer limited to HONOR X9d valid until 31 July 2026.
Available promotions in retail include:
- MTN: R449 x 36 months
- Cell C: R549 x 36 months, R669 x 24 months
- Telkom: R499 x 36 months, R599 x 24 months
- Vodacom: R449 x 36 months, R569 x 24 months
