Nigerian hip-hop is experiencing a renaissance, and at the heart of this lyrical revolution is one of the very few females Gneric, a fierce voice from Edo State whose conscious flows, poetic delivery, and fearless expression are rewriting the narrative for women in rap. On April 25, 2025, Gneric solidifies her rising star status with the release of her deeply personal new EP, I Found My Sound — a powerful four-track journey of introspection, resilience, and raw expression.
A Battle Rapper Turned Wordsmith of Emotion
Gneric’s roots lie in Nigeria’s underground battle rap circuit, where she earned her stripes exchanging bars with lyrical titans like Dabu The Gemini. But since her recorded music debut in 2023, she’s been more than just a skilled MC — she’s become a storyteller for a generation seeking truth. Her music reflects the echoes of her idols — Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Little Simz — yet it remains uniquely hers: filled with honest vulnerability, grit, and Nigerian soul.
In her own words, the making of I Found My Sound was “a rollercoaster of emotions,” a process in which each track mirrored the peaks and valleys of her personal evolution. From the effortless magic of “Road” — crafted during an impromptu studio session with Northern Nigeria’s lyrical titan ILLANOID — to the meditative, spoken-word driven “This Spot,” Gneric isn’t just making music. She’s making statements.
“Many people don’t understand why I combine spoken word with my music,” she reflects. “My background as a battle rapper has opened me up to new ways of expression. Battle rap is poetry to me.”
The project is further elevated by collaborations with two powerful artists: ILLANOID, a Northern Nigerian rap icon and battle rap veteran whose pen is as sharp as his self-awareness. His gritty cadence on “Applaud” brings balance to Gneric’s introspection — fusing street wisdom with lyrical precision.
Ànesi, the Cameroonian-born, Nigerian-raised genre-bender, brings her Trapiano magic to the mix. Known for her haunting melodies and Billie Eilish-inspired emotional depth, Ànesi adds a rich layer of soul to the project’s sonic palette.
Gneric’s Mission: Expression Without Limits
“I want people to connect with me in diverse ways,” Gneric explains — and that intention is clear. Whether it’s the empowering bounce of “Applaud,” the energizing affirmations of “Activate,” or the contemplative mood of “This Spot,” I Found My Sound feels like a body of work that refuses to be boxed in.
If 2024 was the buildup, 2025 is the breakout. Nigerian-born artist and boundary-pusher FeyoTheGenius isn’t waiting around for recognition — he’s demanding it with When It’s Time For Action, a gritty, emotionally layered two-pack that doubles as both a street manifesto and an artistic reintroduction.
Feyo’s message is clear: no more stalling, no more distractions. The time to move is now.
A TWO-SIDED COIN OF CHAOS AND CLARITY
The release opens with “Time For Action” — a relentless, drill-driven joint featuring Vr1zz and Makama. From the first few bars, the tension is thick: cinematic synths snake through bone-rattling drums, setting the stage for verses that pulse with urgency. Vr1zz attacks the beat with sharp intensity, while Makama injects a grounded, street-hardened realism. Together with Feyo, the trio delivers a track that feels like marching orders from the frontlines — militant, emotional, and unshakably focused.
Flip the coin, and you land on “I Lost My Feelings For You”, a vulnerable yet cold reflection on ambition’s emotional toll. Featuring the melodic stylings of Plvyboi Pluto, the track trades raw aggression for introspection, exploring what happens when feelings fade in the pursuit of greatness. It’s a slow burn with heavy replay value — showing that Feyo’s war isn’t just external, but internal too.
FEYOTHEGENIUS: MORE THAN A NAME, A MISSION
At a time when many artists chase trends, FeyoTheGenius is creating his own lane. Born and raised in Nigeria, and now reaching across continents, Feyo blends global influences — hip-hop, afrobeats, drill, alternative R&B — into something uniquely his. But more than just the sound, it’s the purpose that separates him.
Every bar, every beat, every drop carries intention.
“This drop is for the ones who know what it means to move with purpose. No more talking. It’s action time.” – FeyoTheGenius
With a name like “The Genius,” expectations are naturally high. But what Feyo proves with this release is that the genius lies not just in the craft — it’s in the clarity of his vision.
A CLOSER LOOK AT THE FEATURED HEAVYWEIGHTS
Vr1zz brings calculated energy and sharp lyricism, delivering verses that punch hard without wasting words. A perfect complement to Feyo’s cinematic aggression.
Makama adds depth with his storytelling. His delivery on “Time For Action” is more than a feature — it’s a voice of lived reality.
Plvyboi Pluto floats on “I Lost My Feelings For You” with a haunting vocal performance. His blend of melody and melancholy captures the emotional fallout of success with painful accuracy.
WHY THIS RELEASE MATTERS
When It’s Time For Action isn’t just two songs — it’s a line in the sand. It shows us who FeyoTheGenius is and where he’s going. It’s a project that balances the dualities many artists struggle with: strength vs. softness, grit vs. grace, survival vs. soul.
And in an era where attention is currency, Feyo is giving people something worth listening to — something that demands your attention, not just asks for it.
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.
