In the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of Nigerian music, one name is making waves that refuse to settle—Abstraktt. A prolific rapper and exceptional entertainer from Lagos, Nigeria, Abstraktt is redefining the boundaries of Hip-Hop by intertwining it with the soulful rhythms of Afrobeats and the smoothness of Soul. His latest project, The Yellow Tape, is not just an album; it’s a statement, a bold declaration of artistic intent that cements his place in the Nigerian Hip-Hop scene.
The Birth of a Visionary: Abstraktt’s Musical Journey
Abstraktt’s journey into the world of music is as captivating as the sounds he creates. From his early days in a rap group in 2013 to becoming a solo artist who now commands attention with every release, his evolution is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft. His early influences ranged from the iconic sounds of RnB to the hard-hitting beats of Hip-Hop, with legends like Diddy and 50 Cent shaping his musical aspirations. Despite the detours of academia, where he earned a degree in Geography from the University of Lagos, Abstraktt never strayed from his true calling—music.
The Yellow Tape: A Sonic Masterpiece
The Yellow Tape is more than just an album; it’s an experience. Abstraktt showcases his genius through a collection of tracks that not only resonate with the listener but also reveal the depth of his artistry. From the ominous yet inspiring opening track, “I Act Like I Am Okay,” where he explores the themes of resilience and the struggle for success, to the introspective “Don’t Step On My Toes,” which delves into his personal pain and life experiences, Abstraktt’s ability to craft relatable and powerful narratives is unmatched.
One of the standout tracks, “WiFi,” sees Abstraktt channel his romantic energy into a tale of complicated relationships. The track’s inviting warmth, coupled with its bass guitar loops and soft synths, creates a cascading rhythm that is both soothing and captivating. It’s in these moments that Abstraktt’s versatility as an artist truly shines—able to switch from hard-hitting rap verses to smooth, melodic storytelling without missing a beat.
A New Sound, A New Movement: Shakara Rap
Abstraktt’s The Yellow Tape introduces what he proudly calls “Shakara Rap”—a unique blend of rap that focuses more on vibe than beef, offering a refreshing take on the genre. In “Wahala,” another track on the mixtape, he effortlessly weaves together rap, trap, and drill, delivering a performance that is both confident and carefree. The song’s accompanying video, directed by Jyde Ajala, perfectly captures this essence, with Abstraktt seen navigating the streets of Victoria Island with an air of unbothered swagger.
Beyond the Music: The Man and His Brand
But Abstraktt is not just about music; he is a multi-faceted creative force. When he’s not in the studio, he’s making waves in the fashion industry with his highly esteemed fashion house, Black Tape. This brand, which began as a concept for an album, has evolved into a full-fledged fashion line that mirrors his musical ethos—authentic, bold, and unapologetically African. Abstraktt’s fashion and music are inextricably linked, with his designs often featuring lyrics from his songs, allowing fans to wear his music as well as listen to it.
The Road Ahead: Abstraktt’s Unstoppable Rise
As Abstraktt continues to rise through the ranks of the Nigerian music industry, one thing is clear—his journey has only just begun. With The Yellow Tape, he has not only solidified his place in the Hip-Hop scene but has also set the stage for even greater achievements. His music, a perfect blend of Afrocentric sounds and global Hip-Hop influences, is poised to take the world by storm.
For those who have yet to experience the genius of Abstraktt, The Yellow Tape is the perfect introduction. And for his ever-growing fanbase, it’s a reaffirmation that they are witnessing the rise of a true musical icon.
