Known for his fearless pen and effortless cadence, Ghanaian rapper Kwame Yesu offers an introspective turn with his new release. Titled Trench Baby (Vol.1), the two-pack project is a gripping window into the artist’s inner world, marked by emotional sharpness and the lyrical precision that’s made him a noticeable act in the country’s buzzing hip-hop scene.
Having made an impact with the drill anthem “Anadwo”, featuring Kimilist and a pre-fame Black Sherif, Kwame Yesu carved out a lane as a gritty storyteller with a raw, unfiltered sound. But while 2022’s The Last Supper offered a preview of his path, Trench Baby (Vol.1) goes deeper—this time, into the mind of the man behind the mic.
The project’s two songs, “Pain” and “Demons”, are exactly what they sound like—blunt, aching, and brazenly honest. From reflections on the mental weight of ambition to the shifting tides of friendship and loyalty, Kwame Yesu lays his psyche bare. His signature laid-back delivery, paired with layered wordplay, creates a subtle tension that sits with you long after the last verse
“With The Last Supper, we saw his world. Now, with Pain & Demons, we hear his mind,”
The release navigates themes of ambition, isolation, inner turmoil, and resilience, all delivered in Kwame Yesu’s signature laid back flow and poignant wordplay—a style he’s perfected over time.This dual-track project also affirms Kwame Yesu’s devotion to the fundamentals of hip-hop. No gimmicks. No gloss. Just truth-telling. It’s a release made for those who value lyricism, storytelling, and the quiet storms brewing inside our favorite rappers.
Hiphop music is the driving force the of African youth and with the first quarter of 2025 already gone we highlight the artists you should be listening to and have on rotation. So far in 2025, the continent’s diverse regions are brimming with talent, from East to West and South these rappers are poised to make their mark on the global stage. At Hip Hop Africa, we are focused on helping propel the next wave of artists who are ready to captivate the world. Join us as we delve into the vibrant sounds of African Hip Hop, unveiling dope music and artists who can compete and go toe to toe with global superstars.
KindlyNxsh- South Africa
A producer-turned-rapper, KindlyNxsh injects rare depth into the South African hip-hop scene. Known as the “Militant Mayne,” his consistency in 2024—releasing new tracks monthly—set him apart. From collaborations like Where Did You Go with Herc Cut The Lights to his hard-hitting Eish Chief, his versatility shines. His military-inspired persona, donning tactical gear and rallying fans as his “soldiers,” underscores his unique brand. Beyond the mic, KindlyNxsh’s production credentials speak volumes: he co-produced for Priddy Ugly and Blxckie, while crafting his own tracks. His breakout Don’t Braai Me (Soldier Man) proved his ability to blend aggression with psychedelia, earning a coveted co-sign from Nasty C. As 2025 unfolds, his bold Flashing Lights collaboration with Brotherkupa( a sample of Kanye West’s Flashing Lights) reaffirms his artistic ascendancy.
Lyrical Joe- Ghana
Fast rising Ghanaian rapper and songwriter Lyrical Joe is renowned for his sharp lyricism and storytelling which has recently won him several accolades including rapper of the year. Gearing up for his sophomore album “I AM” the rapper has been on a roll with back to back releases so far with his latest featuring another rapper Medikal. After losing both parents at a young age, he turned to music as an outlet for his grief. Influenced by Bob Marley, Lil Wayne, Eminem, Nas, and Jay-Z, his style blends global sounds with personal experiences. His projects include KILL (King In Limelight, 2018), Vibes (2021), and Photo Album (2023).
Msodoki Young Killer- Tanzania
Msodoki Young Killer, born Eriki Msodoki in 1993, is a prominent figure in Tanzania’s hip-hop scene, renowned for his adept Swahili rap and insightful storytelling. He emerged into the music industry with a style deeply rooted in the streets and youth culture of Tanzania, quickly gaining attention for his lyrical prowess. One of Tanzania’s most respected rappers, Msodoki Young Killer is known for his sharp lyricism and deep storytelling. His Swahili rap style balances street wisdom with mainstream appeal, solidifying his place in the Bongo Hip-hop movement.
MOJO AF- Nigeria
MOJO AF also known as Nigeria’s hip-hop ‘Orisa’ is an energetic and distinctive rap genius who possesses robust lyrical and vocal dexterity that keeps his listeners simultaneously hyped-up and intrigued. Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria he began his journey towards music in high school, professionally launching his music career later in 2019 with the release of his hit single ‘Chop Life Crew’ featuring Prettyboy DO.
Qwellers- South Africa
The Qwellers have reshaped the South African hip-hop landscape since 2023. With a collective that includes Lowfeye, LaCabra, Blue Pappi, Sastii, Jepedoh, DaHoodHope, Fanaticalbeing, GVNT, SKATLE and YoungBoyVegeta, they’ve created an electrifying movement. Their fusion of Zulu and trap, coined as Isqinsi, was solidified in their debut tape SUPA BHEXEZA. In 2024, their presence expanded with the Qwelfontein events and a SABC 1 campaign, attracting an ever-growing fanbase. As they prepare their debut album, the collective’s unity and distinct sound promise a transformative chapter. What’s The Qoh and Toyota are just the beginning of a journey poised for global recognition.
Grixxly- Eswatini
Grixxly (pronounced Grizzly) is a Mbabane, Eswatini-born Hip-Hop artist and Producer, whose style of music ranges from Rap to Trap. With his occasional dabbling into trap beats fused with conscious lyricism, he is not one to box himself into a particular type of Hip-Hop sound. Thriving off the succes of his latest mixtape Bear with me
King Kerby- Kenya
Sleek, edgy, versatile, and soulful – these are the words that resonate when King Kerby’s name is mentioned. Hailing from Nairobi, Kenya, King Kerby is an eclectic and multitalented artist who effortlessly encompasses the roles of rapper, vocalist, songwriter, producer, DJ, and curator. Born with a natural gift for rhythm and rhyme, King Kerby’s music is a fusion of dynamic melodies, poignant lyrics, and innovative production. His unique sound seamlessly blends elements of hip hop, R&B, and soul, creating a sonic experience that effortlessly navigates various styles, leaving listeners constantly intrigued, excited, and satisfied.
Brotherkupa- South Africa
An artist unafraid to break boundaries, Brotherkupa’s 2024 EP Teen Revolution catapulted him into the spotlight. With a sound that blends psychedelic trap and punk, he stands as a true dual threat—both rapper and producer. Hits like How I Feel and Gqom Freestyle show his ability to marry raw energy with personal reflection. His influence extends beyond performing—his beats have powered tracks for Blxckie and Lowfeye. With millions of streams and viral moments, Brotherkupa’s rise is nothing short of meteoric, solidifying his place in the South African hip-hop vanguard.
Joey B- Ghana
Joey B is an award winning Ghanaian musician who has been at it for a ewhile but the rapper recenlty took a new turn with his new style of sexy drill making waves across Ghana and Africa, with Princess leading the way with a nomination in the upcoming ghana music awards. His list hit and popular songs includes “Strawberry Ginger” “Tonga” “Cigarette” “U X Me” “Stables” and “Greetings From Abroad”. On his career path, Joey B has collaborated with artists such as Sarkodie, EL, King Promise, Fuse ODG,BOJ, Mr. Eazi and many others.
G-TECH 2Bit- South Africa
Pretoria’s own G-TECH 2Bit has emerged as a force in South Africa’s hip-hop scene. With Survivor’s Guilt, he showcased his unique blend of drill, trap, and melodic rap, amassing millions of streams in just a few months. Collaborations with Loatinover Pounds and Khalee G further highlighted his versatile approach. Tracks like Coffee Shop in Rosebank and Ke Tech capture the essence of Pretoria’s culture, while Ziyawa illustrates G-TECH’s lyrical depth. A multifaceted artist, his ability to blend sharp wit with raw emotion makes him a future cornerstone of South African hip-hop.
Hip-hop’s freshest voice, Dreyson, has just released his latest single “Rocking Drey” featuring rising star Fraimzy — a high-energy anthem that doubles as a fashion flex and a brand statement. The single, now available on all major streaming platforms, serves as a cornerstone of Dreyson’s lifestyle brand and a lead track from his upcoming album Big Dreams, set to drop on June 14th, his birthday.
“Rocking Drey” is more than just a banger — it’s a movement. Laced with catchy hooks, booming 808s, and undeniable swagger, the track celebrates self-made hustle, identity, and streetwear culture. The lyrics shout out Dreyson’s growing clothing brand — featuring T shirts, hoodies, and signature shiesties — while Fraimzy adds his signature melodic bounce, giving the song crossover appeal and club-ready energy.
“It’s not just music — it’s a lifestyle,” says Dreyson. “‘Rocking Drey’ is about repping your dreams, your people, and your drip. The brand and the music go hand in hand. This is just the beginning.”
Fraimzy’s feature adds fuel to the fire, proving once again why he’s one of the most exciting names in the new wave. Together, the duo delivers a track that’s equally suited for the streets, stages, and style lookbooks.
The Big Dreams album, arriving June 14th, promises more of Dreyson’s unique fusion of ambition-driven bars and culturally rooted authenticity — with “Rocking Drey” as its bold introduction.
Thirsty Worldwide superstar, genre-bender, and universal designer Straffitti just turned the temperature up a notch with his latest single, “Luv U”, is set which was already creating major waves online, with over 100,000 user-generated videos on TikTok before its official release today.
On “Luv U,” Straffitti steps into his smoothest R&B bag yet, delivering a passionate, futuristic love anthem about the art of loving a woman right – emotionally, physically, and intentionally. The track is a sonic slow burn, layered with glossy vocals, an irresistible hook, and production that feels like silk and static all at once.
Joining him on the track is Jeleel!, the American high-energy and hardcore-influenced powerhouse known for his explosive performances and unmatched charisma. With millions of streams and a cult-like fanbase, Jeleel! brings his signature raw energy to the record, fusing tender vulnerability with wild intensity. For two artists best known for their high-octane energy and genre-defying rap deliveries, “Luv U” takes a surprising left turn, slowing things down with sultry melodies and emotional depth. It’s a curveball that’s sure to catch their core fans off guard, in the best way possible, revealing a softer, more vulnerable side that proves they’re not just here to rage but to resonate.
In a recent tweet, Straffitti boldly declared,
DELETE ALL MY OLD $ONGGGGG$ NOW, I DONT $OUNDDDDDD LIKE THAT ANYMORE
– a clear message to fans that the old Straffitti is gone, making way for a new chapter. Fans can expect even more R&B influences in his future work as he continues to redefine his sound, proving that his versatility knows no limits.
Straffitti has also been taking the BB$ 2 project on the road, with an exclusive private listening world tour hitting iconic cities such as Los Angeles, Toronto, Cape Town, Guangzhou, London, and Lagos. These intimate events have allowed fans around the world to experience the upcoming album in its raw, unfiltered form, raising anticipation to a fever pitch ahead of the release.
Produced by the dynamic Thirsty Worldwide duo Gcl3f&Jxses, “Luv U” is poised to be a standout record, the kind you play late at night, eyes closed, heart wide open. With BB$ 2 on the horizon, Straffitti proves once again that he isn’t just playing in the lane , he’s redesigning it.
“Luv U” is out on all streaming platforms. Get ready to feel something.
One Thing we know about Mzanzi is that its breaming Remyn one of the latest talents on the block and his latest single , “Zanzibar”, a powerful and cinematic collaboration with platinum-selling rapper Sastii of the supergroup The Qwellers. The track, out now across all streaming platforms, serves as one of the lead singles from Remyn’s highly anticipated upcoming EP, Playing for Keeps.
“Zanzibar” is more than just a song produced by whynsie — it’s an experience. Built on lush, atmospheric production and grounded in gritty lyricism, the single blends Remyn Seventeen’s poetic storytelling with Sastii’s sharp, introspective verse, resulting in a seamless fusion of raw emotion and elevated craft. The track captures themes of escapism, ambition, and the toll of chasing greatness.
Playing For Keeps is expected to arrive on the 23rd of April 2025, showcasing Remyn Seventeen’s evolving sound — a blend of introspective rap, alternative hip-hop, and rich Afro-infused rhythms. With “Zanzibar” as a bold opening statement, it’s clear that Remyn is not just playing the game — he’s here to dominate it.
South African Platinum-selling rapper Sastii and member of the fast rising South African collective Qwellers kicks off 2025 with undeniable heat. Coming through with a double music video drop off his latest 3-pack intimate EP. Sastii delivers the official visuals for “SupaSenorita” and “QWHIMSKII” This attests to the hard work of Sastii and the hardwork the Qwellers has been putting in since their inception.
These two videos showcase Sastii’s sharp versatility and his unique style—balancing romantic smoothness with off-kilter flair. “Supa Senorita” is a wavy love anthem wrapped in silky melodies and Latin charm, while “QWHIMSKII” taps into the surreal, left-field energy that made fans fall in love with The Qwellers’ mystique in the first place.
“QWHIMSKII” now on YouTube.
Visually, both drops are cinematic, stylish, and soaked in character—further cementing Sastii’s rep as one of the most creative minds in the game right now.
This back-to-back visual rollout sets the tone for what’s shaping up to be a massive year for Kakapani. First quarter pressure applied. Hard.
Fast-rising rapper Jozzy2pf is set to make a powerful entrance into the music scene with the release of his debut single, “No Fakes,” which was released just yesterday April 10. The track sees the emerging artist take a bold stance on loyalty, authenticity, and cutting ties with anything fake. “No Fakes” is more than just a song—it’s a declaration. Over a gritty, hard-hitting trap beat, Jozzy2pf lays down sharp verses that reflect his commitment to staying true to himself and his circle. He’s joined by fellow Nigerian rapper Zilla Oaks, who brings his own fire, making for a dynamic and punchy collaboration.
Born in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, and now established in South Africa, Jozzy2pf is carving out his lane in the hip-hop world. With a sound rooted in raw lyricism and a global hustle mentality, he blends African grit with universal themes. His music speaks to dreamers, underdogs, and anyone chasing something real.
“No Fakes” marks the beginning of an exciting journey for Jozzy2pf as he sets his sights on making a lasting impact. With this debut, he’s not just stepping onto the scene—he’s making, Listen to the track below
State of Emergency” is an energetic and powerful hip-hop anthem featuring two of Nigeria’s most impactful rap voices amongst the youth. EESKAY from the Federal Capital city, Abuja and DanDizzy from the oil rich Port Harcourt backed by an electrifying beat produced by Jiggyyb, the track showcases both artists at their lyrical best, trading sharp, thought-provoking verses with unmatched intensity and flow.
This collaboration speaks directly to the everyday struggles faced by Nigerians, touching on themes of perseverance, societal pressure, and the relentless pursuit of success in a system built to challenge dreamers. EESKAY and DanDizzy reject the polished, politically correct approach often seen in mainstream rap, opting instead for raw honesty and a fearless voice for the people.
“State of Emergency” is more than a track—it’s a statement. A call to action. A reminder that real hip-hop still lives in the heart of Africa.
ABOUT THE ARTIST Ishaq Baba Bello, better known by his stage name EESKAY, is a Nigerian rapper, singer, and songwriter who has been making waves in the hip-hop scene since 2016. Known for viral tracks like “The Matter” and “Don’t Touch My Shit”, EESKAY quickly gained a cult following in Abuja—widely regarded as the hip-hop capital of Nigeria.
Drawing influence from UK and US drill music, EESKAY fuses Afrocentric melodies and Nigerian street lingo to craft a sound that is uniquely his own. He is recognized as a pioneer of the Afro-Drill genre and rose to national acclaim with his 2020 hit single “Agbalaga” featuring Odumodublvck.
Ghanaian rapper Lyrical Joe is on a roll this year and unleashes another single “Holy Sky”—the official intro to his highly anticipated album, I AM. Renowned for his sharp wordplay, deep lyricism, and unstoppable flow, Lyrical Joe unveils yet another masterpiece, setting the stage for what promises to be his most personal and impactful project yet.
“Holy Sky” is more than just an introduction—it’s a statement. The track encapsulates Lyrical Joe’s journey, resilience, and unwavering belief in his craft. With a blend of hard-hitting bars, deep introspection, and cinematic production, the song paints a vivid picture of his evolution in the rap game. Fans can expect nothing short of raw authenticity as Lyrical Joe takes them on a lyrical pilgrimage through his world.
Speaking about the new release, Lyrical Joe stated:
“This song is my way of setting the foundation for the I AM album. It’s about self-awareness, purpose, and the hunger to leave a legacy. ‘Holy Sky’ is the opening of a new chapter, and I can’t wait for the world to experience it.”
Produced by some of the finest talents in the industry, “Holy Sky” combines rich instrumentation with a soul-stirring delivery that reaffirms Lyrical Joe’s place at the pinnacle of African rap. As the intro to I AM, the song offers a glimpse into the depth and intensity that fans can expect from the full project.
Listen on Spotify
With a reputation for setting the bar high, Lyrical Joe’s I AM album is already generating immense buzz. Holy Sky is just the beginning of what promises to be a groundbreaking era.
The wait is finally over—The Machine Is Coming has officially landed. Odumodublvck, the trailblazing Nigerian rapper, has delivered his highly anticipated project, silencing speculation that it was merely an April Fool’s prank. What seemed like a joke quickly transformed into one of the most explosive releases of the year, igniting the hip-hop scene.
A Strategic Rollout That Defied Expectations
For months, The Machine Is Coming has been one of the most anticipated projects in Nigeria, with fans eager to see how Odumodublvck would follow up his previous successes. The rapper, known for his bold style and energetic delivery, built up excitement by teasing the project’s release on April 1st. Some doubted its legitimacy, but when the album dropped, it was clear that Odumodublvck had once again executed a masterclass in hype-building.
Adding to its significance, The Machine Is Coming is a mixtape released ahead of his official debut album, Industry Machine. This marks his 12th body of work, including EPs, joint projects, and mixtapes. It also stands as a milestone for Odumodublvck, as it is the first project released under his own imprint, Kalacious Entertainment—a major move in his career.
A Powerhouse of Collaborations
One of the defining elements of The Machine Is Coming is its stacked feature list. The project boasts an impressive lineup of artists across different genres and regions, including:
Victony – PITY THIS BOY
Juno & Valentino Rose – TOY GIRL
Rondodasosa – ISAKABA MAN
Ajebo Hustlers & DanDizzy – AJEBO HUSTLERS
Fatboy E & Falz – BARRISTER TOFO
Bobby Ibo, Sabinus & Afroselecta-Bbk – BTC
Smur Lee & Shallipopi – JUJU
Tolibian & Boj – RAMADAN KAREEM
Vector – GASOLINE
This eclectic mix of rap, afro-fusion, and street-hop crafts a dynamic soundscape, further solidifying Odumodublvck’s reputation as a genre-bending artist.
A Statement for Nigerian Hip-Hop
Odumodublvck has long been vocal about pushing Nigerian hip-hop to greater heights, and The Machine Is Coming is a testament to that mission. The project blends hard-hitting rap with cultural influences, witty lyricism, and high-energy beats. Tracks like WAGE WAR, BALLON D’OR, and GO REPORT showcase his signature style, while collaborations with both mainstream and underground acts demonstrate his ability to bridge different audiences.
With this release, Odumodublvck cements his place at the forefront of Nigeria’s new-school rap movement, proving that hip-hop in the country is not only alive but thriving.
Final Thoughts: The Machine Has Arrived
For anyone who doubted Odumodublvck’s ability to shake up the industry, The Machine Is Coming serves as the perfect response. The energy, the features, and the carefully curated rollout all highlight an artist in complete control of his craft.
The Nigerian music space has officially been disrupted, and hip-hop enthusiasts now have an anthem-packed project to keep on repeat. The Machine isn’t just coming—it’s already here.
