Port Harcourt’s streets have a new voice loud enough to cut through the noise. AC$ENT moves like a lived-in story — equal parts grime grit and Naija swagger — spitting in English, pidgin and local cadence so the lines land like testimony. He doesn’t sound like what’s already on the radio; he sounds like what’s actually happening on the corner, in the backrooms and in the hustle. That rawness is his currency, and listeners are cashing in.
Rooted in the streets
AC$ENT’s bars read like field notes from his city: slang, hustle, small mercies and big headaches. He rides hypnotic, head-nodding beats but never forgets to tell a story — the kind that smells like diesel and wet tar, that carries both humour and warning. Whether he’s leaning into a grime cadence or switching into Afrotrap swing, he keeps authenticity at the front of every take. Freestyles bleed into final versions; nothing feels manufactured.
Sonic identity: grime x Naija trap
His sound is a collision — brittle UK-inflected flows and West African rhythm, braided with Afro-fusion’s melodic pull. Imagine stark percussion, sudden melodic hooks and a delivery that can be sneering one bar and confessional the next. Influences are audible but filtered: the cadence of Skepta, the audacity of Lancey Foux and the melodic instincts of Wizkid — remixed through Port Harcourt’s particular texture.
New single — “WEREY”
“WEREY” is a street anthem that doubles as a survival manual. The beat is hypnotic, the hook sneaks up on you and the verses are shorthand for keeping your head down and your hustle sharp. It’s both a warning and a flex: don’t get played, don’t fold under pressure. The upcoming video promises a gritty cinematic take — think low-light cityscapes, quick cuts, and close-ups that let you watch the story happen.
What’s next
AC$ENT’s not after quick likes; he’s building a lane. More drops are on the way, but the aim is steady growth — bigger audiences without selling the story. He’s documenting a generation that speaks bluntly and moves fast, and he’s doing it in the language of the streets.
The Drill Rap star from Rwanda starts a new chapter with the World Leading Music imprint
Universal Music Group East Africa (UMG EA) announces the signing of prolific Rwandese rapper, songwriter and producer Ish Kevin. This deal brings forth new opportunities for Rwanda’s creme de la creme Hip Hop maverick Ish Kevin joining forces to create commercially successful music and go far beyond the framework in the global music industry.
Sharing his excitement on the new deal he penned with Universal Music Group EA, Ish noted that this was a monumental move for the culture and his homeland , Rwanda.
“Signing to UMG is a big step not just for me, but for the culture. It means our sound, our stories, and our energy are now on a global stage. It’s proof that African voices especially from Rwanda belong in the world conversation” he mentioned.
Ish Kevin
Speaking on the latest signee, UMG EA General Manager Chinasa Udeala shared.
I’m incredibly proud to welcome Rwandan hip-hop star Ish Kevin to UMG East Africa. His authenticity resonates deeply with the youth, making him a major voice in the country’s urban music scene. This is a major milestone for East African hip-hop and music from Rwanda in general. Partnering with UMG East Africa, Ish is ready to share his undeniable talent with the world.
Chinasa Udeala
Ish’s transcendental rise in the music industry began in 2021 with breakout singles such as “Amakosi” and “No Cap” , the latter featured among ‘7 Hard Drill Tracks from around The World’ by major Urban music UK platform , GRM Daily. Ish has solidified his basking reputation as a multilingual emcee , fluent in English, Swahili, French and his native – Kinyarwanda. Pronounced as one of the faces of the new generation of Rwandese artists, Ish is convicted to push boundaries and springboard the Rwandan sound to a global stage.
“I’ve always believed in pushing boundaries. The inspiration to sign with UMG came from wanting to take what we’ve been building locally and share it with the world, while still staying true to where I come from” he mentions.
“Expect bigger collaborations, more powerful storytelling, and music that connects beyond borders. It’s about growth, but also about putting Rwanda and East Africa on the map in a new way” Ish reaffirms his ambitions.
Following the success of his debut LP ‘Blood , Sweat and Tears’ , Ish is ready to charge into the spotlight with exciting new projects already lined up following this incredible milestone.
About Ish Kevin
Ish Kevin (born 1997), also known as Semana Kevin( His real Name), is a Rwandan rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur who has emerged as a leading figure in East Africa’s contemporary hip-hop and drill scenes. He is the founder of Trappish Music, a label and movement that champions a new generation of Rwandan artists blending trap, drill, and traditional sounds with multilingual lyricism in Kinyarwanda, English, French, and Swahili.
Initially associated with the Kinyatrap movement, Ish Kevin later established his own path with Trappish Music, emphasizing themes of ambition, youth empowerment, and celebration over the gritty street narratives of his predecessors. His breakout single “Amakosi” (2021) and the high-energy track “No Cap” both garnered over a million views, with the latter earning recognition from GRM Daily as one of the “7 Hard Drill Tracks from Around the World.
In 2023, Ish Kevin released his acclaimed album BST (Blood, Sweat & Tears), which fused modern drill with traditional Rwandan elements, including samples of Kwivuga vocals and the Inanga instrument. The following year, he dropped the introspective EP Semana, which explored personal growth and artistic ambition. His 2025 single “Africa Rise” further solidified his reputation as a pan-African voice, celebrating unity, resilience, and cultural pride.
Recognized by The Native as one of Africa’s top 12 rappers in 2021, Ish Kevin continues to shape Rwanda’s hip- hop landscape through his music, collaborations, and mentorship of emerging artists.
As of July , 2025, Ish Kevin has officially signed with Universal Music Kenya (UMG Kenya) a major regional label under Universal Music Group. His debut single with them, “Gutsinda II”, was released on that date and is distributed by Universal Music Kenya Limited.
Nigerian-American hip-hop artist Ovasabi released his highly anticipated single, “I NEED THAT”, on August 20, 2025. The track is a cross-cultural explosion featuring Austrian pop/R\&B singer Stephanie Milostic, alongside contributions from an Australian R\&B voice and Zambian artist Mayukwa.
With AI-driven visuals, an international sound, and bold collaborations, Ovasabi is carving his place as one of the genre’s most daring voices. I caught up with him to talk about his creative journey, the making of this project, and the global future he envisions for his music.
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Global Fusion
Q: Your new single “I NEED THAT” brings together your distinctive hip-hop flow with Stephanie Milostic’s vibrant pop melodies, a fusion of two musical worlds. How did this collaboration come together, and what excites you most about blending those genres?
Ovasabi: I actually discovered Stephanie during a TikTok live where her music was being played. Her vocals stood out, her lyrics were unique, and she had a distinctive style. I reached out to her in December, and by January she had sent me a chorus. I loved the sound immediately, and we decided to build the song from there. What excites me most is that it’s not just a song, it’s a sound. It’s unique. I always wanted to blend my Nigerian lyrics and vocals with an international artist, and this was the perfect opportunity.
Q: How did you connect with Stephanie Milostic for “I NEED THAT”? Was she on your radar from the start, or did it evolve organically?
Ovasabi: It was organic. She listened to some of my music too and liked what she heard. We connected on mutual interest. This digital era makes collaborations like this possible, and that’s exciting.
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Energetic Intent
Q: With club-ready energy and an international anthem vibe, what mood did you envision for listeners hearing “I NEED THAT” for the first time?
Ovasabi: Anywhere the vibe is high, clubs, parties, gyms, sports competitions. Even when you just need motivation or positive energy. That’s the atmosphere I want people to feel.
— Expanding the Palette
Q: Beyond Stephanie, you’ve got an Australian R\&B singer and Zambian artist Mayukwa on this project. How did they expand the sound?
Ovasabi: Stephanie is an Australian R\&B/Pop singer who’s been putting out great music. Mayukwa, the Zambian artist based in New York, is an energetic performer and really good with choruses. We actually worked on a track called “Calling” from my upcoming Black and White EP. Watch out for that one, it’s special.
— Creative Approach
Q: When working with such diverse artists, from Europe, Africa, and Oceania, do you adapt your songwriting and production style?
Ovasabi: Music is a universal language. Sometimes it just needs a little tweaking here and there, but I always stay original. My Warri pidgin, Nigerian slang, English, and hip-hop influences will always be there. The key is often just finding the right beat, the rest falls in place.
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Innovative Visuals
Q: Your project includes an AI-generated video, something quite new in hip-hop. What inspired this direction?
Ovasabi: For me, it’s about moving with the times. AI is efficient. Stephanie lives in Australia, and I’m in the U.S.. imagine the cost and logistics of shooting a traditional video together. AI gave us creative flexibility. And with attention spans getting shorter, I believe AI makes visuals more efficient while expanding creative options.
— Technical Challenges
Q: What were some of the challenges in executing an AI-driven visual?
Ovasabi: Honestly, with great minds like Pixala Productions handling it, everything fell into place. They’re the best in the game right now.
— Origins & Evolution
Q: From Warri to the U.S., from your Book of Ovasabi EP to this global project, what’s stayed central to your identity, and what’s evolved?
Ovasabi: My Delta pidgin, Nigerian slang, and ability to make hip-hop digestible are still central. What’s evolved is my sound selection, beats, instrumentals, production choices. Growth comes with every project.
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Storytelling Through Lyrics
Q: Your earlier work was deeply personal and reflective. How does this new project differ in lyrical themes?
Ovasabi: Every project comes from a different space emotionally. Hopes and Dreams was one vibe. This one is a whole new narrative, with new energy and emotions.
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Audience Vision
Q: How do you envision your global audience receiving this, from New York to Lagos and beyond?
Ovasabi: It’s always been tough breaking African hip-hop into the U.S. and international space. But I believe I can be that bridge. Who knows, we might even win Grammys. You never know.
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Live Performance Plans
Q: With such high-energy tracks and futuristic visuals, what can fans expect from your live shows?
Ovasabi: We’re planning tours already. Some gigs in New York are coming up, and we’re pushing for bigger shows. Creativity unfolds as we go, but one thing’s certain, it’s gonna be lit. Keep your eyes on me.
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Industry Disruption
Q: Do you see AI visuals reshaping hip-hop and music videos as a whole?
Ovasabi: Absolutely. In a few years, artists of all genres will move away from traditional music videos. AI is here to stay, it’s efficient, creative, and only going to get better. This is just the beginning.
— Artistic Influence & Growth
Q: How did your roots in Delta State and Lagos influence this release?
Ovasabi: Growing up, we dreamed of international collaborations. From Warri to Lagos, now to the U.S., all of those experiences shaped me. That’s why I appreciate this moment so much.
— Strategic Release Choice
Q: Why August 20, 2025, for the release of “I NEED THAT”?
Ovasabi: It’s the right timing. My Black and White EP is also on the way, so this track sets the pace. We’ve got so much lined up, just stay tuned.
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Looking Ahead
Q: What comes after this release?
Ovasabi: The Black and White EP drops in September. There’ll be shows, tours, more visuals, merch, and big moves from the U.S. to Lagos. We’re just getting started.
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Final Word
Ovasabi’s new single isn’t just music, it’s a movement. By blending hip-hop with international pop, experimenting with AI visuals, and staying rooted in his Nigerian identity, he’s redefining what global hip-hop can look and sound like.
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For Bookings & Inquiries
For artist bookings, interviews, features, and performance requests, contact:
Hennessy Cypher 2025 spotlights pan-African and global artists in a powerful new expression of sound, style and storytelling.
Hennessy, the world’s leading cognac brand and a longstanding champion of music, has just dropped the much-anticipated Hennessy Cypher 2025. This launch affirms Hennessy’s role at forefront of global sound: one that successfully blentheds Hip-Hop, Amapiano and Afrobeats for the first time ever.
Featuring a powerful mix of artists from South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Tanzania and the UK, this year’s Cypher is a pan-African and diaspora collaboration that places Hennessy once more at the forefront of cultural innovation and sound evolution.
The Hennessy Cypher 2025 represents a unique blend of feats: it’s a genre-fusing, gender-inclusive and boundary-breaking musical experience designed to showcase Africa’s global influence and celebrate the diversity of expression. It also echoes the brand’s ‘Made for More’ philosophy, a belief that when creativity meets culture, the result is always greater than the sum of its parts.
For the first time, the Cypher features female artists while merging Amapiano, Afrobeats and Hip-Hop into a single track. This bold move reflects both the richness of Africa’s evolving soundscape and Hennessy’s commitment to elevating underrepresented voices and redefining the concept of what a Cypher can be. Six artists widely known for their unique sound and style take centre stage: Kabza De Small, Femi One, Ms Banks, Blaqbonez, Jaivah and Joey B.
“At its core, the Hennessy Cypher is about creativity and passion for music,” says Vincent Montalescot, Hennessy’s global Chief Marketing Officer. “It is a true collective play, uniting artists who are disrupting genres and shaping culture, across Africa and beyond. As a master blender of talent and vision, Hennessy continues its long-standing relationship with Africa and reaffirms its commitment to championing African creativity on a global stage”
The music video for Cypher 2025 unfolds inside the Hennessy House, a metaphorical mansion where each room represents a different genre, rhythm and cultural movement. This symbolic creative concept brings to life the idea of co-existence over competition, where Hip-Hop, Amapiano and Afrobeats live side by side in a single visual and musical space.
Directed and produced in Cape Town, South Africa, the Hennessy House becomes a canvas for multi-cultural sound and continental fashion, transitioning from room to room in a sleek journey through a diverse musical landscape.
For over 50 years, Hennessy has been woven into the DNA of Hip-Hop. From Tupac to Snoop, Nas to Drake, the brand has been name-checked in over 4,000 songs, making Hennessy the most mentioned spirit brand in music history.
An international collaboration blending Afro-fusion and trap, set to spotlight PEI on the global music map
Charlottetown, PEI — Local hip-hop artist Rightflow just released his highly anticipated new single “Man O War”, a cross-continental collaboration featuring Nigerian rap artist Zaylevelten, who is pioneering a bold wave of Afro rap and Afro-fusion music.
“Man O War” is more than just a song — it’s a cultural bridge. Combining the high-energy rhythms of Afrobeat and the raw edge of trap and hip-hop, the track brings together the distinct musical influences of Prince Edward Island and Nigeria. Rightflow’s lyricism and emotive delivery pair seamlessly with Zaylevelten’s Afro-fusion style, which draws on Nigerian Pidgin English and modern rap flows.
Zaylevelten has already made waves in the international music scene, collaborating with artists such as Fimiguerrero(who previously worked with UK rapper Lancey Foux) and earning co-signs from industry heavyweights like Davido, Odumodublvck, and Santi. His feature on “Man O War” reflects the growing cultural exchange between Afro-fusion and Western hip-hop — and places PEI in the spotlight of that global conversation.
Rightflow expressed his excitement about the release:
“This track is about more than music — it’s about merging worlds. Working with Zaylevelten has been inspiring because his sound carries the heartbeat of Nigeria while connecting with the energy of trap and rap that I’ve been building here in PEI. ‘Man O War’ shows how music can travel across borders and bring cultures together.”
With a growing following in Prince Edward Island and beyond, Rightflow is emerging as a fresh voice in Canada’s hip-hop and R&B scene. “Man O War” highlights his ambition to break through regional boundaries and showcase how artists from smaller markets can create globally resonant music.
The single will be available on Spotify, Apple Music, and all major streaming platforms on [Insert Release Date]. Fans can follow Rightflow on [Insert Social Media Handles] for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and future releases.
“From SoundCloud to Stardom: Scumie’s 066, Vol. 3 Shows She’s One of Hip-Hop’s Next Big Names”
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Rising South African rapper, singer, and producer Scumie has officially released her highly anticipated new album, 066, Vol. 3 — the latest installment in her acclaimed 066 series. The 13-track project marks a bold evolution in Scumie’s career, following her breakout albums 066 (2021) and 066, Vol. 2, which first introduced her to the South African SoundCloud scene and helped her gain early recognition as a rising hip-hop talent.
066, Vol. 3 features powerhouse collaborations with Zimbabwean-South African superstar Nadia Nakai, as well as Qwellers’ Yungboyvegeta & Lowfeye, blending dynamic local and cross-border hip-hop sounds. Every track showcases Scumie’s signature mix of raw lyrical intensity, melodic flair, and atmospheric production — cementing her as one of the most exciting voices in South African rap and contemporary hip-hop.
“This album is me — raw in a curated way, “066, Vol. 3 is about evolution. Disillusioned, but front row at Paris Fashion Week.”
Scumie
The 066 series has long acted as a living archive of Scumie’s artistic journey: ● 066 (2021) captured raw instinct and underground energy.
● 066, Vol. 2 sparked industry attention and built momentum.
● 066, Vol. 3 represents refinement and growth — a confident, restless project that shows Scumie embracing both her strength and vulnerability.
From start to finish, 066, Vol. 3 is a sonic exploration of self-realisation, aesthetic power, and subtle rebellion. Each track moves like a blurred Polaroid — imperfect, grainy, yet intensely alive — drawing listeners into an immersive world of authentic South African rap.
Scumie personally produced track 1, and the album features production from some of South Africa’s hottest new wave producers, including: BeatsByNxRTH, Brotherkupa, Chetey Chetey, Guapo & NNoah, HUDS, HUDS & Zackey, Joey Manson, N.k.v.y, NotBenjamin and internationally acclaimed American producer The Alchemist.
With this release, 066, Vol. 3 solidifies Scumie’s position as a leading figure in the African hip-hop landscape, bridging underground credibility with mainstream appeal. The album is now available on all major streaming platforms worldwide, marking another milestone in her rapidly ascending career.
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About Scumie
Zamazitha Mnqandi, known professionally as Scumie, is a dynamic South African rapper, singer, and producer who has swiftly risen to prominence in the global hip-hop scene. Born in Midrand, Johannesburg, Scumie began her musical journey at 14, initially producing beats before transitioning into rapping during the 2020 lockdown. Her debut track on SoundCloud charted unexpectedly, marking the beginning of her ascent in the music industry.
In 2025, Scumie released her debut studio album, 066 VOL 3, featuring collaborations with artists like Nadia Nakai and YungBoyVegeta. The album showcases her unique blend of alternative hip-hop, incorporating elements of punk, emo rap, and electronic influences. Scumie’s authentic storytelling and genre-defying sound have garnered her a dedicated following and critical acclaim.
Beyond her musical achievements, Scumie has been recognized for her advocacy for female artists in the music industry, encouraging them to build their own empires rather than conforming to existing structures. Her influence extends beyond South Africa, as she continues to inspire and redefine the global hip-hop landscape.
After 8 years of silence, SirNic216 is finally making his long-awaited return, and this time, he’s not just dropping music, he’s telling his story. His latest 7-track EP Almost Never, marks his first release since his 2017 project. For long-time supporters, this isn’t just another drop, it’s a moment. A long-overdue chapter
The title, Almost Never, is more than poetic. It reflects a near-fatal accident that almost ended his career, and his life. The EP explores what it means to fight through silence, pain, and doubt.
“Almost Never is a prayer in reverse. A quiet scream from the edge of a moment. A confession dressed in resilience,
SirNic216
The sonic direction of the EP is steered by two distinct forces: Lesotho’s own Taks Beats and Thor Björgvinsson, a gifted producer all the way from Iceland. Together, they deliver a soundscape that merges sharp lyricism with haunting emotion and intentional vulnerability. Each track on this EP is a piece of that journey, honest, unfiltered, and necessary. It’s a story of survival. A second chance. A bold return from an artist who almost never made it back.
Fresh off the success of her last single “can’t stop” — which climbed to #1 on the 5FM Top 40 and made waves across streaming platforms — Zimbabwean-Ethiopian rapper and lyricist Hanna returns with her brand-new single “tough crowd”, dropping on 22 August 2025.
Known as one of South Africa’s most exciting young voices, Hanna blends the raw storytelling of hip-hop with the smooth textures of R&B and polished pop production. On “tough crowd”, she delivers an empowering anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like their best still wasn’t enough. Sparked by the heartbreak of someone close, the song speaks to the universal struggle of people-pleasing and the liberation that comes with breaking free.
Her vocals glide between vulnerability and resolve, rising into a hook that feels equal parts pep talk and rallying cry. With sleek, confident production and a tight runtime, “tough crowd” wastes no breath — instead carrying a bold, unapologetic message: you can’t please everyone, so you might as well be yourself.
tough crowd is one of those songs I didn’t realise I also needed to hear until I was done making it,”Hanna explains. “It started out about someone else, then quickly became very close to home. It’s one of those messages that just resonates deeply and that almost anyone can relate to. Whether it’s feeling like you can’t catch a break no matter how hard you try, or for those in the public eye, always being damned if you do and damned if you don’t.”
Hanna
Hanna’s career has been on a sharp upward trajectory. From making her mark in Mr Eazi’s #emPawa100 and Nasty C’s Lift As You Rise, to a Best Female nomination at the South African Hip-Hop Awards for her debut mixtape The Girl in the Durag, she’s continued to cement her place in the industry. In 2024, her critically acclaimed Guilt Free EP earned widespread praise and landed her on Apple Music’s Africa Now Radio’s Big 5 with lead single “Pride.”
Now, with “tough crowd”, Hanna reinforces her new era — one that builds on the momentum of her chart-topping success while championing authenticity, self-assurance, and artistry that resonates deeply with her growing audience.
African music takes another giant leap forward as BabyDaiz drops his brand-new single Matisa today, a record destined to move dance floors, hearts, and the culture itself.
BabyDaiz is not just an artist – he’s a force shaping the sound and spirit of a generation. Rising to fame with his breakout single “Enemies,” hailed by Nasty C as having the “greatest music video in South African history,” BabyDaiz quickly established himself as a creative disruptor. He then sparked a continent-wide wave with the viral anthem “Top! Masambe,” a TikTok sensation that had millions dancing across borders.
Following his breakout hits, BabyDaiz’s Allez Tobina single was more than just another release – it was a movement. Fusing high-energy African rhythms with world-class production, the track redefined the soundscape and cemented BabyDaiz as a true culture shaper. Riding this wave, he shared stages with Africa’s top stars, performed at major festivals, and built a dedicated fanbase – over 2.2 million TikTok followers, 241K Instagram fans, 8 million YouTube views, and 87K+ monthly Spotify listeners. Each milestone sharpened his vision and set the stage for his next bold step.
Now, after electrifying the streets and streams, BabyDaiz returns with Matisa – meaning “lift it up” in Lingala – a single that embodies elevation in every sense. Produced by Astro and Mathew Otis, the track is a spiritual rising through rhythm, rage, and ancestral release. Drawing from his rich multicultural roots – from South Africa to Atlanta and beyond – BabyDaiz crafts a sound that is deeply African yet universally resonant. Matisa is more than a single – it’s a statement. Proof that African music is not just participating in the global conversation; it’s leading it. With infectious energy, unapologetic originality, and an ever-growing international audience, BabyDaiz is lifting the culture to new heights.
Hailing from Kigali Rwanda, Sano Boi release his debut EP Fingers Crossed, a month after the success of his street-shaking debut single “Drip on Monday” featuring B-Threy. The project’s title, “FINGERS CROSSED,” serves as a powerful symbol of hope for anyone to make it in life, regardless of the hard obstacles.
Fingers Crossed symbolizes my hope and support for anyone striving to achieve their goals, This project is a heartfelt and energetic collection of songs that serves as a powerful symbol of hope and perseverance against life obstacles and are sure to move your feet and soul.
Sano Boi
“90’s Kid”: on this deeply personal track, Sano Boi reflects on his childhood, born in 1996. This song highlights the spirit of “United as one,” where segregation has no seat. Sano Boi shares the story of losing his father at the age of nine and how that profoundly impacted his life. This song is an anthem for all the 90’s kids across the world who grew up with big dreams of contributing to their community and making a change.
“Run It”: Sano Boi showcases his flawless flow and raw talent on this track, reminding everyone that giving up is not an option. “The future is holding tight your Mulla , Guma Ukore Cyane Uzayacyura”. Run it captures the spirit of perseverance and the drive to succeed regardless of the obstacles in one’s path.
“Kama Mbaya Mbaya” ft. BUSHALI: This track, featuring Kinyatrap pioneer BUSHALI, is a powerful declaration of determination. The Swahili title, “Kama Mbaya Mbaya,” reinforces Sano Boi’s message that he will make it no matter what it takes. The song encourages listeners to keep their faith and put in the work to achieve their goals
The project’s title, “FINGERS CROSSED,” serves as a powerful symbol. Sano Boi chose it as he is rooting for anyone to make it in life, regardless of the hard obstacles on the journey.
“ Fingers Crossed symbolizes my hope and support for anyone striving to achieve their goals” Sano Boi
