Friday, August 8, 2025
Home Blog Page 34

Str8up HipHop Presents The Sideh Kai Preview Throwdown With ILL BLISS

Get ready for an electrifying event in the world of hip-hop as Str8up HipHop presents The Sideh Kai Preview Throwdown, featuring the only ILL BLISS. This highly anticipated event celebrates the bonafide rap legend and model of consistency.

Save the date: July 30th. The venue of choice is Pop Haus, situated in the vibrant neighbourhood of Lekki 1. The action kicks off promptly at 5 pm, so attendees are encouraged to arrive on time and not miss a moment of the excitement.

But that’s not all. Alongside the exclusive preview of ILL BLISS’ much-awaited rap album, Sideh Kai, attendees can look forward to a lineup of incredible events that will keep them on the edge of their seats. The Str8Up HipHop Roundtable will bring together experts who will delve into the hottest topics in the hip-hop scene. Prepare to be amazed by mind-blowing rap battles and captivating B-Boy showdowns, where talented individuals will compete for instant cash prizes. Throughout the event, the atmosphere will be set by the phenomenal skills of our badass DJs, while awe-inspiring graffiti artistry will be on display.

To secure admission, exclusive invitations are required. Visit the Str8up HipHop Instagram page @str8up_Hiphop and click on the link in the bio to receive your invitation. Missing out on this unforgettable experience is not an option, so be sure to claim your spot.

For those interested in sponsoring the event or have any inquiries, please direct message Str8up HipHop on Instagram @Str8up_Hiphop or call 08060406244.

The Sideh Kai Preview Throwdown is a production of Str8up HipHop, brought to you in collaboration with Buckwyld Media, Pop Central, and Dark Cypha Entertainment. The organizers are proud to present this extraordinary event and eagerly anticipate an evening filled with the brilliance of ILL BLISS and the pulsating energy of the hip-hop world. Get ready to be blown away by an unforgettable experience.

Mozambican Rapper Nicko Journey Releases New Album Calicaland

Returning back from the United States to his home in Maputo after 4 years away Nicko Journey finally ended his silence with his first Portuguese-speaking album, Calicaland.

The album is a Soulful hip-hop and Trap infused project which is pleasing to the ears with the music and lyrics speaking for itself and definitely no language barrier can stop the listening pleasure derived from this masterpiece from yet another talented musician from the motherland Africa.

Listen to the project on Spotify

It was a real soul searching process. I ruminated for a long time, trying to figure out how to lead with the right foot in terms of releasing music. I’ve always swung back and forth (from commercial to experimental intent), but fate had other plans by bookmarking my 2022 with my uncle’s disappearance. I had recorded about 40 songs for two unrelated projects (that will still come out) before I set out on this one. I took my time with it, ensuring my intentions were pure and that I could deliver songs that my people could sing for the foreseeable future.” 

“I want these songs to accompany everyone through life..”

Nicko Journey

After the release of his first album The Art Salesman (while based in San Francisco, California), Nicko set out to find a new sound. After a growing popularity of lusophone music back in his hometown, he tried his hand in the new trend, releasing his first underground hit, “Nicko, o Dinheiro te Mudou” in 2020Shortly after this, he returned to his hometown of Maputo, Mozambique. With his newfound buzz, he went on a historic run of featured appearances in songs from artists such as LayLizzy, Dygo Boy Jurus and King Cizzy. This rapid fire release pattern was followed by a long hiatus which lasted a year and a half, at which point he released the first single of this new album, titled Star. This project starts with the fast paced, high energy “battle-cry” of a song Honra, which gives us a very vivid look into the mindset of this young African artist, showing the world that he has arrived and is here to stay. This is followed by a prayer on the song Oração, which really sets the spiritual theme of the project, showing his grace and appreciation for the opportunity to set out on the path he’s on. We are quickly transported to Rumores, a goliath of a song, filled with choirs and an impassioned vocal performance from Nicko, casting aside doubts and proving claim to greatness. The project features fellow Cypher Studios alum Mbudzi Chi Moio and Konfuzo_412. With years of heavy anticipation built up by his loyal fans and his sense of artistic purpose renewed by a defining life experience, this album is the kickstart to a highly anticipated music career. 

Follow the rapper for more on Instagram: @nickojouney

“Bioba” Is Laycon’s Majestic Return with A Sophomore Album

Nigerian rapper, singer, songwriter, and media personality, Olamilekan Agbeleshebioba, popularly known as Laycon, has made a triumphant comeback with his highly anticipated sophomore studio album titled “Bioba.” Following his well-deserved rise to stardom after winning the 2020 edition of the reality TV show Big Brother Naija, Laycon captured the attention of fans with his debut album. Now, he returns in style with a captivating body of work that showcases his growth and artistry.

Bioba Album Front Cover

The Concept Behind “Bioba”:

Laycon’s latest album, “Bioba,” holds significant meaning for the artist. The title derives from his last name, Agbeleshebioba, and translates to “Like a King” in English. This symbolic choice reflects Laycon’s journey and his determination to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. With “Bioba,” Laycon aims to command attention and solidify his position as a musical monarch, showcasing his versatility and unique style.

Tracklist:

1. Bioba

2. Trigger

3. Remember Me

4. Marathon

5. Odumodu In A Picanto

6. Ze Roberto

7. Waka Pass

8. Hear The Rumours

9. Manifest

10. Ft. Oladapo – Late Nights Early Days

11. Ft. Peruzzi – Peruzzi’s Interlude

Collaborations:

Laycon enriches the album with two notable collaborations. “Late Nights Early Days” features Oladapo, while “Peruzzi’s Interlude” showcases a collaboration with Peruzzi. These collaborations add a refreshing dynamic to the album, with the featured artists complementing Laycon’s style and contributing their unique flair to the tracks.

Conclusion:

Laycon’s sophomore album, “Bioba,” marks an important milestone in his musical journey. With this body of work, Laycon not only solidifies his position as a versatile artist but also showcases his growth and maturity as a musician. From introspective tracks to high-energy anthems, Laycon demonstrates his ability to captivate listeners with his infectious melodies, thought-provoking lyrics, and distinctive style. “Bioba” serves as a testament to Laycon’s artistry and leaves fans eagerly anticipating what he has in store for the future.

Nasty C’s Long-term Girlfriend, Sammie Heavens Confirms Pregnancy

Congratulations are in order for Nasty C and his long-term girlfriend, Sammie Heavens, real name Ntombizodwa Beatrice Sibanyoni, who has just confirmed their pregnancy in an Instagram post.

“The beginning,” captioned Heavens, also a poet and haircare content creator, in a pregnancy reveal of her growing baby bump.

This follows Junior’s latest Fire In The Booth freestyle where he casually dropped a bar about the pregnancy; “and bae still preggers but soon as that’s done, we back on tour getting f#$%*d up.”

The couple has been together for just about 10 years and have kept a very tight bond despite the issues they’ve faced in the past, with some having been documented in Nasty C’s music.

Congratulations to the couple, we wish them a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Listen to Nasty C’s latest song, Fallin with Zack Tabudlo powered by Coca-Cola.

Blaqbonez Thrills Fans with the Release of “Like Ice Spice” and “Like Bezos”

Nigerian rap sensation Blaqbonez has once again captivated music lovers with the highly-anticipated release of his singles, “Like Ice Spice” and “Like Bezos.” Following a viral snippet that set social media ablaze, fans have been eagerly awaiting the full tracks. With his unique style and lyrical prowess, Blaqbonez delivers an unforgettable musical experience.

The controversial mention of Ice Spice’s name in Blaqbonez’s “Like Ice Spice” has lived up to expectations, creating immense curiosity and sparking discussions among fans. The full song showcases Blaqbonez’s ability to create infectious beats and clever wordplay, solidifying his reputation as a boundary-pushing artist. The track is a game-changer, leaving listeners in awe of Blaqbonez’s talent and musical vision.

Simultaneously, “Like Bezos” lives up to the hype as another highly-anticipated track from Blaqbonez. With its intriguing title and the rapper’s penchant for thought-provoking lyrics, “Like Bezos” delves into themes of success, ambition, and the pursuit of greatness. Blaqbonez’s seamless blending of genres and captivating performances make “Like Bezos” a must-listen for music enthusiasts.

———————

[Blaqbonez and The Muchachos De Granja Effect On “A 2Pack EP”]

In an exciting development, Blaqbonez has not only released his highly-anticipated singles “Like Ice Spice” and “Like Bezos” but also introduced a new group called Muchachos De Granja, meaning Farm Boys in English. The Muchachos de Granja made a striking appearance in the snippets of the songs, adding an extra layer of intrigue and excitement to Blaqbonez’s musical journey. Sporting white tees and green bandanas, the group brings a fresh aesthetic and a sense of camaraderie to Blaqbonez’s performances.

Not only does the Muchachos de Granja have a distinctive dress code, but they have also developed a unique secret handshake and a set of captivating dance moves. The group’s presence in the snippets has already sparked a frenzy of curiosity and speculation among fans, who are eager to witness the full extent of the Muchachos de Granja’s contributions to Blaqbonez’s musical vision. With their infectious energy and synchronized movements, the Muchachos de Granja are set to enhance the overall visual and auditory experience of Blaqbonez’s performances.

In addition to delivering exceptional music, Blaqbonez’s introduction of the Muchachos de Granja showcases his commitment to artistic innovation and creating a completely immersive experience for his fans. By bringing together a group of like-minded individuals with their own distinct identities, Blaqbonez further solidifies his reputation as an artist who pushes boundaries and continually seeks to captivate his audience. The collaboration between Blaqbonez and the Muchachos de Granja promises to be an exciting journey filled with memorable music, stunning visuals, and a shared sense of camaraderie among fans and artists alike.

ICYMI: “Blaqbonez Ignites Social Media with “Like Ice Spice” and Teases “Like Bezos”, Fans Anticipate Releases”

————————

Blaqbonez has solidified his position as a prominent figure in the Nigerian music scene, earning accolades and a dedicated fanbase through his impressive discography. Known for his signature style and energetic stage presence, he continues to push boundaries and experiment with his music, establishing himself as an artist who consistently delivers fresh and exciting sounds.

The wait is finally over as Blaqbonez has dropped “Like Ice Spice” and “Like Bezos” to the delight of his fans. The electrifying combination of infectious beats, clever wordplay, and thought-provoking lyrics showcases the artist’s growth and evolution. With these new releases, Blaqbonez dominates the airwaves once again, solidifying his position as one of Nigeria’s most talented and innovative rappers.

https://twitter.com/BlaqBonez/status/1677090161992122369

How American Rapper Ice Spice Controversies Inspired Nigeria’s Blaqbonez New Song

In a surprising turn of events, Nigerian rapper Blaqbonez has set social media ablaze with a snippet of his upcoming track titled “Like Ice Spice.” The short clip, which went viral within hours of its release, has generated immense excitement and anticipation among fans. With its catchy beat and intriguing lyrics, “Like Ice Spice” is going to be another game-changer for Blaqbonez. Let’s delve into the details and explore what makes this track so special.

The Controversial Reference:
https://twitter.com/BlaqBonez/status/1676512313061306368
“Like Ice Spice” by Blaqbonez Makes The New…

One of the factors fueling the buzz around “Like Ice Spice” is the inclusion of the name “Ice Spice” in the song. This mention has caught the attention of fans, especially considering the recent breakup between American rapper JT and her boyfriend Uzi Vert, allegedly over Uzi Vert referencing Ice Spice in a song performed at the BET Awards. Blaqbonez’s decision to incorporate Ice Spice’s name in his track has sparked curiosity and speculation about the connection between the two incidents. Blaqbonez sure knows how to create a scene from a sin.

Viral Sensation:

The power of social media cannot be underestimated, and Blaqbonez’s “Like Ice Spice” is a testament to that. Within moments of sharing the short clip on his social media accounts, it spread like wildfire. Across various platforms, it garnered thousands of views, likes, and shares. Fans and music enthusiasts alike have been captivated by the snippet’s infectious energy and catchy melody. They are eagerly awaiting the song’s official release. With the wildfire spread that “Like Ice Spice” created. Blaqbonez humped the opportunity to publicize “Like Bezos”, a second track. The track would be released at the same time as “Like Ice Spice” in a mixtape. The Two-Track Mixtape he dubbed “A 2Pack EP”.

Stay Tuned to HipHop Africa for: [Blaqbonez and The Muchachos De Granja Effect On “A 2Pack EP”]

Blaqbonez’s Signature Style:

Known for his unique musical style and witty wordplay, Blaqbonez has become a prominent figure in the Nigerian music scene. His ability to seamlessly blend various genres and deliver clever lyrics has earned him a dedicated fanbase. With “Like Ice Spice” and “Like Bezos” from the “A 2Pack EP”. Fans anticipate that Blaqbonez will once again showcase his versatility. Proving why he is a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

Anticipated Release:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CuO8I6jMmjl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

“Like Ice Spice” and “Like Bezos” is scheduled for release this Friday at midnight. Fans are counting down the hours. The overwhelming response to the short clip has generated high expectations for the full track. As fans eagerly await the song’s official drop. The anticipation continues to grow. With many expressing their excitement and predictions for how the piece will unfold.

Conclusion:

Blaqbonez’s upcoming releases, “Like Ice Spice” and “Like Bezos” has already made a significant impact even before their official launch. The controversial reference, combined with the infectious snippets that went viral, has sparked immense curiosity and enthusiasm among fans. With his distinct style and lyrical prowess, Blaqbonez is poised to deliver another hit that will leave a lasting impression on the Nigerian music landscape. As the clock ticks closer to midnight on Friday, all eyes and ears will be tuned in to experience the full magic of “A 2Pack EP.”

Nasty C & Zack Tabudlo Connect In Upcoming Coca-Cola Collaboration

Coca-Cola recently got South African rapper Nasty C and Filipino singer-songwriter Zack Tabudlo to partner in a new song coming out soon that fans are already raving over.

The unnamed love song was previewed on both artists’ Instagram pages, where Junior raps, “Girl, you’re the strings to my heart. Girl, you’re the keys to my car, rolling, rolling, rolling, rolling.”

Nasty C, who is no stranger to the Coke Studios, worked with Zimbabwean artist Buffalo Souljah in 2016 and, later, Nigerian singer, Runtown the following year.

21-year-old Tabudlo first caught public interest when he appeared in the first season of The Voice Kids as a contestant. His recent single, Gusto, has become a Spotify chart-topper and currently sits on just shy of 15 million streams.

This new song is presumably Zack’s first South African collaboration and could lead to more work for him in Mzansi.

We’ll keep you posted on the latest.

BENJAMIN Explores His Thoughts In “Conversations With Myself”

The last day of June saw the release of BENJAMIN‘s long-awaited album, Conversations With Myself, following months of preparation.

The self-produced project examines BENJAMIN’s conflicting thoughts about the self, his career, and his relationships. He introspects in the high-energy production, speaking on his purpose and dedication to the music.

A festival owner/ promoter and record label founder, BENJAMIN commits his time and energy to growing $treetfe$t and 720records, while building a sustainable music empire.

The project runs at 19 tracks with no other features but BENJAMIN’s alter ego, NOTBENJAMIN, who makes a single appearance in Internal Conflict. As the former battles the menacing thoughts in his head, his not-so-friendly second self appears toward the end with threats of impending violence.

He uses his shortcomings as motivation to push him in the right direction. An independent artist, BENJAMIN finds himself having to work ten times harder to secure his place in the music industry though he’s committed to succeeding, and is fortunate enough to have the support of his community.

Listen to the project below:

$treetfe$t Reveals New Merch

NOTBENJAMIN recently shared images of $treetfe$t’s latest apparel additions, and his followers highly approve.

The red varsity baseball jacket sports the festival logo and the letters “NY” in front, as well as a USA flag on the right upper arm – a new addition to your winter wardrobe.

$treetfe$t already has several apparel items in its storage, including tote bags, beanies, and caps. We can’t wait to start rocking the new merch!

Weekend Wrap Up: Here’s What You Missed

The last day of June landed on a Friday which meant great news for SA Hip Hop as many of our favorite emcees dropped singles and projects to end the month with a bang. Here’s what you missed.

A-Reece Performs New Song At CottonFest Durban

As CottonFest made its Durban debut this past weekend, one of the biggest artists on the lineup, A-Reece, thought to make it extra special with a preview of an unreleased song. Baby Boy had the crowd going bonkers when he performed the unknown song, supposedly from his upcoming album.

https://twitter.com/LemogangSeboko2/status/1675603149032157185?t=X6uhdpNW-PeesRmrPQKdbw&s=19

BlackAce_ZA Raps Of His “Last Days At the Trap” In New EP

Rapper and songwriter, BlackAce_ZA seems to be in good spirits with the release of his latest offering, Last Days At The Trap. Recounting his past days on the grind, struggling to break even while also fighting personal battles, BlackAce appears to have found his footing.

Jay Jody Reveals Album Tracklist & Features

In celebration of his birthday, Jay Jody shared his forthcoming album tracklist and features but with a twist: the artists are not named, but represented by their zodiac symbols. Aside from the Aries symbol (tracks 4 and 14) presumably representing A-Reece, we have no idea whom the rest stand for. Do you have a clue? Let us know.

Kashcpt Shares Debut RNB Project, “Love Letters”

Cape Town rapper/ singer, Kashcpt officially released his full-length RnB project, Love Letters last Friday. With his heart on his sleeve, Kash sings to his love interest while professing his strong feelings with assistance from Aida Lee and Flvme, among others.

Kayflow Drops “Ramba Wakadzvanya” With Music Video

A little over two months since Sei Sei was released, Kayflow made his return with a bang when he dropped his latest, Ramba Wakadzvanya. While the catchy chorus pulls you in, Kayflow addresses social issues of drug abuse and unemployment, raising awareness to the conditions in his community.

Stuuperman Delivers “Super Sonic” EP

As previously announced, Stuuperman finally released the Super Sonic EP. A culinarian in his past time, the Pretoria rapper and producer cooked up a solid project and called up fellow emcees, VenomRaps, Hxrvlo_SA, and Nylo Island, among others, to bring the heat.

UYIHLO Connects With Ewiva! In “Siberia”

I’m too cold, it’s Siberia.

Back in April, UYIHLO released his EP, Ozithobileyo, UYIHLO, and is back with his latest drop featuring Ewiva!. “If there ever was an ad for men to have self-respect and standards, it would be this song,” tweeted the rapper.

Big Yasa drops the “Who” visuals trailer

Big Yasa, a top Kenyan driller, has finally dropped the teaser for his latest single, “Who”, after the successful “blocks” collaboration with Buruklyn Boyz.

The Blocks project was a masterpiece, from the audio to the visuals, setting the stage for the new project.

Big Yasa displays consistency in his craft, aiming to take over the Kenyan drill with his infectious drill. The real name Yassin Issa, also known as Biggs, is a drill artist, rapper, songwriter, and performer from the Mad Clan record label based in Kibera, Nairobi, Kenya.

Biggs’ music is based on real-life situations from his neighbourhood in Kibera. His music is real and inspirational. Most of his songs are meant to educate the youth.

The track is upbeat and with high energy in his usual style. Biggs shows out with his hard-hitting lyrics, bar after bar.

The video is only a teaser, giving his fans a taste of the project before its official release. It is already making waves, with fans highly anticipating its release.

Check out his music and the trailer as we update you on its release.