The first word I learned to spell was “NASTY.” Back in the early 2000s or late 90s, there was a channel on DSTV called Channel O that played some of my earliest hip-hop and R&B memories in Africa with a section called NASTY. I listened to it so much that it was the first word I ever learned to spell haha. When I think back to my first memories of Nigerian Hip Hop, I can’t help but remember a phone call I made to Ruggedman when I was just 9 years old. My older brothers, who were big hip-hop fans themselves, somehow got hold of Ruggedman’s phone number from one of his tape covers. Little 9-year-old me dialed up Ruggedybaba to let him know how much I loved his music!
Now, in 2023, Nigerian hip hop is experiencing a real resurgence. We’ve got trailblazers like Odumodu Blvck with his “Declan Rice,” Paybac Iboro dropping the “West African Goat” album, and Blaqbonez selling out concerts every February. Not to mention, they’re even rubbing shoulders with hip hop icons like Ludacris. The Nigerian hip hop scene is the place to be in 2023. Putting together this list, I’ve aimed to include all the names that filled my childhood while growing up in a hip-hop-filled household in Nigeria. I’ve also had some great chats with my friends and industry experts—huge thanks to Charles, Banky, VRSD, Teckzilla, Meiji, Sparky, and Wisdom for their input. This list is a work in progress, and it’ll keep growing as we gather more names and contributions. I know I’m bound to miss a few names or mix things up, so I apologize in advance. If I do, just drop a comment in the directory, and I’ll make sure to sort it out.
Before we jump into the list, I want to break things down a bit, especially for those who might be new to the Nigerian hip hop scene.
Legends:
This group is like the trailblazers and elder statespeople of the game. They’re the ones who laid the foundation for Nigerian hip hop. Think of pioneers like Lord of Ajasa, who’s considered the father of Yoruba Rap. Remember the hit “Obodo” by Klint de Drunk and Mr Raw? It’s a track that resonated with many Nigerian youths. Songs like MI’s “Crowd Mentality” and “Fast Money, Fast Cars” give you a glimpse into the early days of Nigerian hip hop—a time when it was a bit of a wild west. MI Abaga shot to prominence during this period with his 2008 track “Safe,” featuring Djinee. He kept the momentum going with a string of hit singles and albums, culminating in the impactful 2017 control-esque track “You Rappers Should Fix Up Your Lives.” So, MI is definitely a big deal, still holding the title of Nigeria’s top rapper.
There’s more though. While MI might have the commercial success, Mode Nine is hailed by real hip-hop enthusiasts as the OG, the guy who paved the way and delivered some of the most hard-hitting lyrics ever. It would be remiss to finish this category without mentioning Oleku by Ice Prince, and the incredible run the Choc Boyz and Chocolate City (MI Abaga, Jesse Jagz and Ice Prince) had from 2007 – 2012, with back to back hits from their various affiliate artists and projects.
Women in Nigerian Hip Hop:
The ladies in Nigerian hip hop are a force to be reckoned with. From Mo Cheddah to Sasha P, and the fresh faces like SGAwD and DETO Black, they’ve made their mark. Remember Chidimma’s “Emi Ni Baller”? That track became an instant national anthem! Not just a hit in terms of sales, it showcased her incredible versatility. Early groups like Knighthouse and Trybsemen nurtured female talent in Nigeria, paving the way for some of the biggest names and tracks in Nigerian hip hop.
Established:
Let’s rewind to 2017 when I was in Accra, with Paybac Iboro’s “Hey Ghana” playing on repeat. I even used it as my guide to explore local Ghanaian eats like banku and Ghanaian buns. The folks in the Established category are the ones who’ve left their mark in Nigerian hip hop. They’ve dropped albums that have had the scene in a chokehold (looking at you Paybac Iboro), churned out hit singles that sparked cultural moments (word to Falz, repeatedly), and they’re here to stay.
Firebrand:
These firebrand artists might have just one standout single or project, but man, do they make an impact. Even if you’re not a hardcore hip-hop fan, you’d probably recognize these names.
They’re consistent and seriously good, giving the established acts a run for their money. From DETO Black, making waves internationally, to our own Nigerian Boy Charles Majek, these firebrand artists are on fire with their top-notch hip-hop.
Emerging:
This category is like the newbies of the hip hop world. They’ve got at least one track on streaming platforms, and I’ve gauged their popularity mostly through Spotify monthly listens. Keep in mind, some of these folks might level up to the Firebrand category down the line. Either way, this is your intro to fresh sounds and talents you might not know yet.
To wrap it up, I’ve chosen songs that give you a good sense of each rapper’s style or tunes that got them noticed. But remember, this directory is a work in progress. I’m all ears for more names and tweaks to help everyone dive into the world of Nigerian hip hop and groove to its rich heritage as we celebrate hip hop’s 50th anniversary.
Huge shoutout to Playlist Central for curating the playlists below. You guys rock!
See the full directory in Google Sheets here – comment access only.
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Ezim Osai