IFEANYI ‘FECKO’ IBEGBUNAM African Hiphop artiste uniting Africa one track at a time. Agriculturist, graphic designer and editor-in-chief (E.C.H.O eZine).
DAVID “RAPMANIA” OKON, is a Nigerian emcee and hypeman for various hip hop events in Nigeria.
YINKA “MARQUE” MAKANJUOLA is a Nigerian emcee, music producer and visual artist
"REEMTOS, real name Orimogunje Oluwatosin, is a Nigerian hip-hop enthusiast, music blogger at Realest (realest.com.ng). Available on Twitter, Facebook and on Instagram as : Reemtos."
PAUL SANTOS CINEMATOGRAPHER
OLAWALE “PREACH” OLUKOYA is a writer, photographer,graphic artist and is single.
LAI MAKANJUOLA also known as MR XI is the CEO and creative director of E.C.H.O. He is also a photographer and graphic artist
MC SKILL THA PREACHA NIGERIAN EMCEE
@thisisFecko @AfroRapFacts and What's Poppin? are fresh additions to the e-Zine, intended to break stories and reveal shocking facts in African Hiphop. Also find out which rappers the ladies are crushing on in our Vox Pop section
Dear Echoholics (has a nice ring to it yeah?), let me begin my editor's note by apologizing for the long break. Won't bore you with the reasons why E.C.H.O took a hiatus for four months. However, let's make it up to y'all with this interesting and content-packed edition which features XTATIC on the cover. It's always a pleasure discussing with Kenya's number one female rapper. She's pretty, she's original and she was very expressive in her interview with me. Shout out to her hardworking manager, Kobie Kiambu, who made our job stress free. Our correspondent, Preach, enjoyed having a quickie with three underground Nigerian female rappers (get your mind out of the gutter...was just a brief Q&A session and not what I think that you're thinking...lol). Fast rising Zambian rapper, CHAA, shared her opinion on African literature. Look out for her interview in our subsequent edition by the way. And ladies, don't be surprised if your boyfriend takes a fancy to this edition most pages have lovely pictures of beautiful African women. C'mon! It's not only during World Women's Day you show love to the females, right?
This time around we covered some Hiphop events that went down in Lagos. Some of our contributors also shared various music video reviews, thought provoking articles and controversial opinions with us, all for your reading pleasure! Don't wanna talk too much abeg! Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the third edition of Africa's first digital Hip-hop magazine (gloating is allowed). Enjoy!
It was a cold, dark, lonely night and my mind was racing; I logged on to Twitter so I could get distracted and of course, it was the same old drama about sex, hoes and politics being discussed but there was something else this time. A discussion about who the dopest is in Nigerian Rap. This kind of discussion usually takes place when Nigerian rappers are beefing, it has happened a million times already and I wasn't supposed to be flabbergasted but it got me thinking…
IS NIGERIAN HIP-HOP DEAD OR ALIVE? I tweeted: “Nigerian Hip-Hop Is Dead.” Fast forward 20 seconds later, the notifications started coming in hundreds; the same set of people who would get on social media networks to disrespect legends like Eedris Abdulkareem, eLDee,
ModeNine, Weird MC, Ruggedman, e.t.c came at me like wolves saying Nigerian 6
Hip-Hop is alive. They attacked so flawlessly with insults you would think they truly care/cared about the art in the first place. What Or Who Killed Nigerian Hip-Hop should be the big question now. In my opinion, since “opinion” is now widely accepted, I drafted a few points below; read carefully.
THE MEDIA Music will NEVER circulate without the media and it's so clear how the Nigerian media killed Hip-Hop by condemning and preferring Afro-Pop because Afro-Pop artistes seem to have more cash to throw around prompting this same media to label lyricists as “Broke & Hungry.” Top bloggers and OAPs claim to love Hip-Hop but we all know how we had to BEG most times to have our Hip-Hop records on Top Nigerian blogs or being played on radio; yes, we begged not because our music was wack but because we knew bloggers wouldn't post no Hip-Hop record especially from the upcomings because it probably doesn't generate enough traffic and the radio wouldn't play it for free either. Radio DJs are part of this whole scheme…
art; they want double standards all the time. The so-called Hip-Hop fans are swift to insult a ModeNine but hold a Wizkid in high esteem; the reason behind, that I would never fathom. The fans keep saying they want a conscious sound – put out a conscious sound and the fans would say they didn't hear any punchline on the record. Put out a punchline filled record and the fans would say you gotta dump it down; Hip-
“PAY me and I will surely play your record but we DON'T play Rap music on our show.” With that kind of statement, someone desperate for stardom would start singing immediately. Our so-called HipHop World Awards can't even boast of a cypher each year at it's annual ceremony, neither can it's 24-hours TV station claim to play Hip-Hop videos on a regular; now, this is where the Olamide's and the Phyno's come into the picture. For the record, they are excellent rappers but they are NOT doing Hip-Hop; obviously, a debate for another day. The Lyricist On The Roll award which is supposed to be the only thing keeping Hip-Hop alive is video-based, therefore killing 90% of most lyricist's dream of ever getting recognized plus Pop albums being nominated for Hip-Hop Album Of The Year also killed the kulture.
THE FANS In recent times, Nigerian Hip-Hop fans have become plain rude and unappreciative when it comes to real
Hop is NOT just about the EMCEE and the DEEJAY. The fans play a big role. "If football fans were not as passionate about the sport, football as an art would have been killed". People would play but there would be no stars; same thing applies to Hip-Hop – the fans have to show that they truly love it, but they didn't so we here now. Lastly, fans are NOT honest with 7
emcees; because you are a huge fan of an emcee doesn't mean they put out dope materials all the time – fans have become so blind and deaf that they tag everything from their favorite emcee as “Dope & Classic“; the lack of criticism from fans killed Hip-Hop's growth in Nigeria.
that. What makes you a legend is not longevity but the positive things you actually do/did for Hip-Hop; legends haven't pulled fellow rappers up lately, they would rather set up record labels and sign Afro-Pop artistes, hence killing the kulture.
EMCEES
CONCLUSION
To me, emcees today are confused and impatient; they emcee for just 6 months and they want to be on the billboard. It doesn't work that way. Money has to be made no doubt. Even the last element of Hip-Hop focuses on entrepreneurial skills but after coming out as a dope emcee and you start singing 6 months later, you lose the respect of HipHop fans; most emcees couldn't stick to the art and that made the kulture suffer. For example, Ice Prince used to Rap but he has made a lot of money whilst singing and upcoming rappers also want to be like him therefore the kulture will remain dead for a very long time.
As an emcee and true Hip-Hoppa who has
five (5) Hip-Hop projects to his credit, I know how hard it was/is for me admitting that Nigerian Hip-Hop is dead; on a personal experience, a Top Nigerian blogger [arguably the biggest] who claims to really love Hip-Hop once told me and I quote… “Yo Preacha, your music is too Hip-Hop. I'm sorry, I can't post it.“ What's too Hip-Hop? What would happen if he posted the record? Guess I would never find out either. Now, I put the question to you all – IS NIGERIAN HIP-HOP DEAD OR ALIVE?
LEGENDS Yes, legends also have to be blamed for not guiding and pulling up young rappers; instead, legends don't want to lose their spot.
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You can't be number one forever, even KRS with the “One” after his name knows
ABOUT MCSKILL THA PREACHA MCskill ThaPreacha is a Nigerian Hip Hop Emcee who has been active officially since 2010 with five mixtapes to his name. He is also a member of the renowed Temple Of Hip Hop making him the first African/Nigerian emcee to achieve that feat. His philosophy over the years has been based on uplifting minds with conscious music. Connect with MCskill ThaPreacha Facebook - MCskill ThaPreacha Twitter - @McThaPreacha Instagram - McThaPreacha
Ejay Milev is a fast rising afro-hiphop music producer born Onugba Enojo Paul. He started making beats at the age of fifteen in his secondary school for friends on which they used to rap on for fun. He has been professionally active since 2011 after producing the all-star anthem of his University which brought him into prominence in his zone and surroundings... Thereafter won the producer of the year award in his school in 2011 for numerous works done with artist in his university where he is a final year student studying Agric/environmental engineering... Known for hard hitting hip hop and Afro pop beats... He has worked with many artists brooding underground nationwide via internet hookups... He recently produced the beat used for the Verse City Cypher... 9
Your stage name - Xtatic, how did you get it? Also, tell us about your hobbies. I got it from a high school friend who was like "you have to have a name as a rapper now that you've decided to start recording, and Gloria or your pet name Sweety don't work ..."lol I have a lot of hobbies but let me name a few. But I love cooking, drawing portraits/painting, watching movies, researching on facts/controversies/music and weird things lol Traveling, What's your style of music? And what inspires you or your music? Any musical influence? My style of music is rap based does not matter on what beat as long as it inspires me to get on it. Not any musical influences really, because I am a music geek, I research a lot and have moments with different type of music. I mean at some point in my life my mind was made and I really wanted to be a rockstar. Lol When did you step into the music game? And with what single or project. I started rapping when I was 13 But I was more of a poet then at 16 I realized my poems sounded more like raps and did really well on hip-hop beats. I came up with a small group called Kambi kuu headed by a producer/rapper called Sniper That was my very first studio where I was more of the girl who does the chorus than rap. The song that brought me out, like got people's attention was definitely "the prep track" which I did my first solo video of. What's your biggest (or favorite)
collaboration so far? Well I really do not have a favorite since I have had plenty of collaborations that I fall in love every time I listen in. Who are those on your wish list or nextin-line list? It definitely has to be Khaligraph Jones ,Ace ,Cassper Nyovest ,Cynthia Morgan ,Mi, KO ,EL,Yung Haze Jcole maybe lol You once expressed your annoyance over female rappers having to play second fiddle in a male dominated industry. Tell us why you decided to voice out and what you suggest should be done to remedy the situation? Well unfortunately we’re already fighting over international content to Kenyan content in our country for that to be an issue so ultimately is for us female artist to do what we've been doing and that is work ten times to get what a male artist gets. The reason I even feel that female play second is because you will find a whole list of male artists in a show /concert/chart and only one female artist in it when we have lots of talented females. It's like 1 female per 50-100 males in this industry. In my own opinion I feel most African female artistes don't collaborate with each other a lot compared to their male counterparts. What's your thought on that? And that's true Because after the negligence female artists go through they also seemingly come to believe that having male rappers in their songs will give them more platform. But it's just ignorant to not collaborate with a female artist as a female artist, I mean how is a female artist 11
not suitable in this or that project compared to a male. I see that a lot and it frustrates me because I make sure I work with females a lot and sometimes some get back like they are unavailable or cannot work when I'm pushing for some unity of some sort. Which Nigerian and South African female rapper do you admire and what's your perception about the entertainment industry in these countries? In Nigeria I'd go for Eva Alordiah, she is hard working and has a lot out there and that makes me proud of her as a female artist. In South Africa it's Devour Ke Lenyora , whenever I'm down I look for her poetry and songs , she has so much content and I get pissed seeing as not many recognize how much talent she has hence the reason I couldn't wait to work with her on B.I.G.H which is currently most people's favorite. Waiting on new stuff from her I'm not sure how it is in Nigeria but in SA the hip-hop industry seems quite big. The hip-hop artists are featured in most awards, they have shows almost every weekend if not week. Its industry is quite enviable. Apparently Oscar winning actress Lupita N'yongo is putting Kenya on the map. Has her success really impacted the Kenyan community in a lot of ways? Yeah it definitely has showed us that if you believe you can do it, go for it and don't give up. Gave many people a lot of hope. Even impacted the whole 'girl child' issue. More fathers are looking into supporting their daughters and educating them and also support in whatever career they choose especially in the creative arts. For me it very much is an inspiration too. I mean who wouldn't want to shine like 12
Lupita has. What has been your major challenge in the industry so far? I can't say much on that because they were just the main ones that female artists face, since I'm confident in my work and I believe in it so much i’d want as many opportunities as guys do get but that's a problem in the industry. Let's talk controversy issues. Ever recorded a diss track? Or had one or two aimed at you. Nope , that's a waste of time to me because if someone comes at me they should have a valid and I mean very valid reason, I'm a friendly person and I don't like useless scuffles that take me nowhere. I live for good vibes. When you hear the phrase 'United States of Africa' what comes to mind and what do you think is the way forward for African Hip-hop? I've always felt we should all work together to improve the African entertainment industry as a whole. And that's why I'm quite saddened by the xenophobic attacks happening in SA. We are better than discriminating against our own. Teaming up brings better outcome than working alone. I've worked with artists from all over Angola, Zimbabwe, Zambia, SA, Tanzania, Ghana, and I want to work with more. What's your take on the recent Kenyan attack that took place at Garrisa University which leftover 140 people dead? It's about time that we started looking for a permanent solution for the terror attacks. Retaliation seems to drag the situation further and the people it's affecting are innocent. Okay. Let's loosen up. Relationship status.
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Single? Searching? Married? Tell us. I have been in a relationship for the past 4, going 5 years and really happy so to say. Who are your top 3 male African celebrity crush? Mush King (film director) Uhuru Kenyatta (yes, our president) Trevor Noah A while back you posted some of your post pregnancy photos online. And most of your fans think your body’s hot.
love for sugary things. I do work out Haven't been though, because of the whole tape. When my mind is fixed on something I get too lazy to work out..lol..especially when it has something to do with my craft. But I'm back at it again. Is it been easy being a mother and a rapper at the same time? How do juggle both together?
What's the secret? You work out a lot? Haha! First off they were not post pregnancy photos, my baby was about three. I had lost so much weight immediately after having her even back to my original size. I added weight after bad diets and the
Yeah it really is, Because I am the same person, you will meet at the streets and the same one you meet at home. I try not to be entirely different and that's gives me control on my personality as a rapper and as a mother
'My momma thought me to be wise, my dad made me rebellious, the drama thought me to be wise' - that's one line that grabbed my attention when I listened to Let Me Xplain. What inspired that statement? Well, a couple of things that I may not talk about now But my Mumz is the kindest woman I know, like she has a warm heart to everyone. Would even hold me back when I want to do or say something when I was angry. I got the hardheaded trait from my dad. Tell us some facts about Xtatic that most people aren't aware of. I'm not a fan of avocado but I eat it in food. I am a lone wolf I enjoy my own company. I've spent months living by myself sometime back and not going out It doesn't matter who you are there is never an awkward moment with Xtatic. Basically I rather be sensibly talkative than a bore, hence why I chat with my fans from time to time. Any interesting collaboration we should look forward to? What else are you working on at the moment? I'm looking to work on an EP later this year and an album (LP) next year But expect more videos from songs from the tape
want to tell any upcoming artist that they should not give up and most of all always do their homework, this industry is not 123.
Mention top 10 underground African rappers (especially from Kenya) that you feel will soon go mainstream. Timmy Tim Ben Vic Yung haze Shukid Anje What is your advice to every African aspiring to be as famous as you are? Well I would not say famous lol but I 15
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So the other day on Twitter, I saw someone's tweet that read "Nigerian Hip-Hop today is boring" , to which somebody else replied that it was as a result of inability to host consistent cyphers, rap battles or an all-hip-hop concert. And then, an
the show that featured the legendary DJ Jimmy Jatt himself on the 'Ones and Twos ', spinning classic hip-hop beats for guest artiste(s) to go in and drop dope freestyles. It could be lengthy, it could be short; it could be one beat, or it could be a
arguement ensued. Another mentioned that DJ Jimmy Jatt 's Jimmy's Jump Off used to play a huge role in the hip-hop scene, and then it struck me, what happened to Jimmy's Jump Off?? If you'd been an ardent fan of Nigerian Hip-Hop for long, you'd agree that the weekly televising of Jimmy's Jump Off used to be the ish. Hip-hop heads fuxed with it big time. Rappers would pray and hope for a session on the mouth-watering 'Lick The Mic ' episode. And if you did get through, it was the ultimate platform to flux your rap talent and gather hip-hop fans nationwide. The Lick The Mic session was a category on
beat mix. Whichever it was, it never ceased to be intriguing. Jimmy's Jump Off served as a platform for artistes (male or female), both A-List and on-the-come-up, to come through and thrill their fans with hard-knocking hip-hop verses, stunning lyrical prowess and quick witted thinking in freestyles that'd make you crave for more. It used to be it fam. Remember the Dagrin session? Prolly one of the greatest memories left behind by the one-time hiphop mogul. I remember how peeps would rap along with it word for word, as lengthy as it was. I bet I could still try. LOL. I doubt.
Lots of emcees where priviledged to have graced the session on one or two occasions. As an emcee back then, if you didnt have a session yet, all missions as a hip-hop artiste in the industry were yet to be accomplished. And those that had theirs already, would go ahead and brag about how they had the roof brought down during their session. I remember the likes of T.R (formerly Terry tha Rapman) and A-Q chipping it somewhere in their lyrics about how they had two sessions as a result of their individual brilliance. Years gone by now, and sadly today, we can't ascertain its status. Has it come to halt? Did it run down as a result of challenges? Or did Uncle Jimmy get bored of it all? These are the questions lingering in the mouths of its fans today. Now, we have our rappers praying and hoping for a session on the 'Tim Westwood TV ', as that is the new cool. When in reality, Jimmy's Jump Off used to be idolized back then. How pathetic. That said, 'nuf respect has to be given to the legendary DJ Jimmy Jatt for single-handedly driving the project for years without delivering mediocre standard. One of the many reasons why we'll forever be indebted to him for his immense and effortless contributions to the growth of hip-hop in Nigeria. Well now, what we have is an annual concert of the prestigous Jimmy's Jump Off, with numerous artistes from all genres of music enlisted. It now serves as a cliche annual entertainment concert like every other. In addition to this feat, he's gone ahead to release an album 'The Industry Vol. I ', a brilliant project that saw him continue with his support for Nigerian artistes. But one has to reiterate the importance of the weekly TV edition. In an era when hip-hoppers had enough on their plate to enjoy and go about discussing, Jimmy's Jump Off used to be it. It served as a huge source of hype and buzz for Nigerian hip-hop. Hopefully, we are yet to see the last of the wonderful TV series. Who knows? Maybe its even being reviewed at present for a better and greater comeback. We never know. Just maybe. Article by @Reemtos
Well, I believe African literature has seemingly come a long way. Here at home in Zambia, the trend is in motivational and financial writings. It's good, but I wish we had more fiction, more fascinating and entertaining stories. I'm sure it will come to them though, soon enough. Generally, as you may have picked up on, I have a preference towards fiction -the more “impossible� the story, the better. Unfortunately though, I am not the most avid African-written literature reader – I am trying to change this. But from the little I have read it would seem that with authors like Chinua Achebe and more recently with the debuting of the phenomenal Chimamanda Ngozie Adichie, Nigeria continues to take the lead in authentically African and Fictional literature. Currently, I'm reading both 'Bongo Rhythms' -an anthological poetry collection of pieces by Zambian poet Longwe Simon Mutengu- and 'Purple Hibiscus' -a touching and thought provoking story about family, faith and African modernity. Both books are written by two of the best possible individual epitomes of African youth, in the context of what is now defined as afropolitanism. -Thought challenging, a lot of big words (I need a dictionary each new page), wonderful stories, beautifully imaginative and African-, great reads.
Nigerian hip-hop legend Modenine reportedly set to dig into his music archive by releasing one song every day in May, 2015. That's 30 days of Modenine. Interesting!
Veteran Nigerian rapper 2Shotz has announced a new album. He is excited about the project but yet to reveal its title. Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie is considering taking a hiatus next year. On Tuesday, April 28th, 2015, he took to his Twitter account to say he has been recording too much and also said he will take rap control pills in 2016. The rapper who is planning to release his fourth studio album titled Mary after his grandmother said he is planning to slow down. 20
Reminisce's sophomore album 'Baba Hafusa' tops iTunes chart 24 hours after release. Reminisce's album is currently four places above Phyno and Olamide's '2 Kings' and Asa's 'Bed of Stone' album in the world music category.
Chocolate City camp, released a compilation album titled 'The Indestructible Choc Boi Nation (TICBN) ', featuring all artistes on the newly reformed label. This album comes after series of development in the label which saw a Jesse Jagz return to the label, a merger between Chocolate City and M.I 's Loopy Music , and Audu Maikori 's decision to step down as label executive. TICBN featured all acts of the label including Ice Prince, Jesse Jagz , M.I , Nosa, Ruby Gyang , Victoria Kimani , Pryse, DJ Lambo , DJ Caise, Loose Kaynon , Dice Ailes , Milli & Koker .
American rapper Jay-Z announced the presence of his business company, TIDAL, in Nigeria. He sent his cousin Briant 'Bee-High' Biggs to search for new talents in Nigeria. The motherland should anticipate ROC Nation Africa.
Legendary Nigerian rapper T.R teamed up with international headphone brand Skull Candy in his latest effort to encourage upcoming rappers in the country. The competition 'Kill The Beat' saw the top three rappers with the best version win a Skull Candy headphone. And they all featured in a Power Cypher video which also featured T.R.
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While guys are busy arguing about which football club has the most points in the EPL, ladies rather derive fun in discussing which male celeb has the sexiest biceps and six packs. “I like Phyno's complexion and hairstyle but he's kinda skinny”, “OMG! AKA is damn cute, but why is he always wearing shades?” – all these kind of tweets flood my time line regularly. Therefore I thought it would be interesting to find out which African Hip hop artiste most of y'all ladies are crushing on. By the way, shout out to Deeva for the props (it's a pity guys can't blush hun). Funny enough, some even mentioned Burna Boy and Wizkid as their hip hop celebrity crush. Are they hip hop? (Hahaha). Anyway, it's allowed! *in MI's voice*... Surprisingly MI had the most mentions from the ladies. So if you are a short black boy out there trying to grab the attention of the ladies through your rap skills, there’s hope for you!
"MI! Originality, he knows exactly what to rap about and he spits bars."
Vector I love his use of word play and poetry. And he is cocky.
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“I have a crush on AKA. That boy is fine, fresh, eloquent and suave. He also has killer bars too. I love AKA. I love Fecko too. He has a pretty nice build."
“Ice prince! because he is cute and knows what he is doing well, music wise. Also his business idea is wonderful."
MI Because he is good at doing his thing, has the charisma and his lyrics always makes sense.
“Can BurnaBoy be categorized as being Hiphop? Anyway I love him. Infact am listening to one of his tracks now and I like his voice. His height and build is a good addition."
“I love Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie! He has pure originality."
“I'm not crushing on anyone, but I respect M.I his lyrics and rhymes are on point. Ice prince lost respect after the 'aboki' song, cos he started making all his songs in that pattern. Modenine is a great rapper as he's still a force to reckon with even after all this time. And I respect all indigenous rappers too. Language aint that easy to market because there are segregations."
"I love Naeto C! The only MC with an MSc. I like how he raps and his calmness. I think he has a great personality."
Olamide Because he is raw and talks for the street, His delivery is awesome and I love the fact that he works with anyone, that's him giving back.
Sarkodie He knows how to make classic hits and songs, and he makes that clear in his rapping intros, his style is different, rapping with twi and English plus over the time he has come to realize what people want and how to deliver it to them to the extent that he dictates what they want to hear. I like his versatility and the fact that his next album would be live recorded even though it's in the memory of his grandma. All these and more has made him remain on top for a long time which isn't easy in the entertainment industry because trends set him and more talented people become competition daily and Sarkodie understands this and makes it obvious in his music.
“Ice prince! Or sorry, AKA! Infact am confused. Ice prince knows how to dress and how to combine colours and I also love his style of music. It's so different from others. My number one best. Then AKA, wow! just like him cos he's so so cute and his songs are danceable unlike Ice Prince." 23
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When I heard Sean Martin Luther Tha P was putting up a mixtape listening party, I started doing a countdown to the date. My friends thought I was crazy for doing that for a fella that 90% of the industry didn't know and I didn't mind because I was one of the lucky ones to be present at his volume 1 edition sometime last year in February and I enjoyed the whole event. The press release was finally out and it had lots of details about the event. February 23rd finally came and I was dressed hip for the Dope Unit Mixtape Volume 2 Party. I got to Ozone lounge by 6pm because I wanted to get front row seat to the stage and to my utmost surprise, the front row seats were all filled up. I was shocked because the event wasn't gonna be kicked off till 7pm and right there I realized there were lots of rap enthusiasts like me. By 7pm, Ozone Lounge was filled to the brim and the DJ started rolling music off the tape to put everybody in the mood. Then the event started with random freestyles by people from the crowd and then it jumped into performances by artistes who featured on the tape. In a nutshell, from the rap battles to the producer battles, freestyles and performances I enjoyed myself, not forgetting my first experience watching Shank perform live on stage from a track of the mixtape. The only problem I had was, SEAN MARTIN LUTHER THA P should have gotten a bigger venue. I'm sure volume three would be much better. Thank you Sean Martin Luther Tha P for giving a lot to the rap community. 29
Rapmania tha X and Patogen
Fecko and Toni Code performing “Dream More�
Towo perfoming alonside King Stessi and Keizy
MC Skill Tha Preacha 30
Power cypher is usually fun cause like the previous edition everyone present had drinks and it was fun even for those that did not make to the final cypher audio and video. Participation is totally free so if you are a dope artist and will like to participate in the next edition contact the information on the last Paragraph. The Last edition which was held on Sunday 3rd of May featured winners of KILL THE BEAT competition and was headlined by the legendary Terry Tha Rapman ak Lord T.R. The video drops soon.
Power Cypher is a programme put together by Blao family entertainment group,C4 visuals Plus and undergroundmusicng where underground artists come together to create a great show of skills both audio and video for free.This effort as said by the organisers is intended to help the upcoming artists by giving them more exposure and free publicity. Power cypher is held every 1st Sunday of the month at EXCELLENT A Studios No.13 adeyemi street, off luth road,abiodun Bustop, olosha, mushin, Lagos. This studio is presently the largest in Lagos right now. The event is Hosted by Paragunn Blao,sounds and audio works are handled by Sinister Beats,all visual works are handled by C4 Visual Plus while UndergroundmusicNg.com is in charge of the promotion and publicity.
All works (AUDIOS & VIDEOS) was done at EXCELLENT A STUDIOS (@excellentA_Ent) Power Cypher was brought to you by Blao family entertainment (@Blaofamily_ENT),C4visuals Plus (@C4visualsPlus) Proudly supported by UndergroundmusicNG (@234underground) Powered by Excellent A Studios (@excellentA_Ent). For more info Call: 08022639171 BB Pin: 334756f8 Email: Powercyphernigeria@gmail.com Twitter: @powercypher_Nig
You think you love Hip-hop and rap music. Hiphop culture is here for your entertainment and relaxation. Hip-hop Culture is a monthly show like no other, a strictly hip-hop concept ranging from performance, freestyles, rap-battles and everything related to the genre and sub-genre of hip-hop music. Its major motive is to portray the relevance and diversity of hip-hop in Nigeria; it will also expose the hidden rap talents on the streets of Lagos metropolis. Hip-hop Culture will motivate the young and aspiring hip-hop/rap artiste and also showcase the iconic people who have made their mark in the Nigeria Hip-hop scene and possibly Africa as we grow and it's also a medium to showcase new materials. The first edition of Hip-hop culture held on Saturday 25th of April, 2015 Ember creek, 32 Awolowo way, Ikoyi, Lagos. Nigerian hiphop artistes such as Terry tha Rapman, Eclipse, A-Q, Godwon and Mc SkillTha Preacha performed at the event alongside other underground Hip-hop artiste. And it was hosted by TWIX and Rapmania Tha X Follow on twitter: @hiphop_kulture Like our Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/hiphopcltureng For more information and partnership Call Drexx : 07052140300 Dj Karlifornia: 08028199990
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Do you know Naeto C and Sasha P are the only two notable Nigerian rappers that have featured Asa on a song?
BabaHafusa by Reminisce was recorded in his home studio and the cover signifies his struggles as a father with huge responsibilities.
Banky W would have dated Niyola if not for her on and off relationship with former Trybesmen lyricist Fr3style
Do you know Lord T.R played a huge role in Lil Kesh's success as a rapper?
When Eva Alordiah decided to pursue a career in Hiphop, ZDON Paporella helped her understand the music business more.
Nigerian Hiphop producer Teck-Zilla produced the first mixtape of awardwinning Zambian group Zone Fam titled #FullScript
africanhiphop.com is the oldest African Hiphop online forum. Founded by Juma Nne in the late 90s.
Krytic & Thugga who recently decided to take up Gospel music actually had a collab project in the works titled 'VS' 34
Xtatic is a very emotional lady that cry on movies.
On August 15 2014, AKA's colleague, Nyembe, pulled out a gun to Cassper Nyovest on the set of SABC 1's "Live Amp"
Controversial MC, AQ recently admitted in an online interview that he actually took shots at Ruggedman & Fecko
Xtatic's 'Prep Track' video & audio literally gave fast rising Zambian femcee CHAA hope for a chance at Hiphop
Olamide never had the chance to meet the late Dagrin.
Nigerian rapper Fecko arguably has the most collabs with other African MCs outside the country.
Do you know that SA's Hugh Masekela refused taking pictures with any of his female fans wearing a fake hair/weave?
#RandsAndNaira crooner Emmy Gee's real name is Emmanuel Nwankwo and he started recording at the age of 16.
Teck-Zilla is the only West African producer that has worked with Canibus. Do you know Boogey's verse was replaced by Show Dem Camp's on 'The Case' by Jesse Jagz? 35
Paul Ubah Santos aka JSP is a filmmaker/Content Director. Emcee, Poet, Songwriter. Involved with several commercials for top brands not to mention. Director of Music, Videos & More, Casting School, It's My Wedding & Living n Style on Spice TV. Director Of Photography on the movie "Mixed Feeling" for Ebony Life TV amongst others. In this section he shared his opinion on how African Hiphop visuals can be taken to the next level.
From a Content Director's point of view, African Directors & cinematographers need to understand that hip hop is huge content because from a lyrical point of view, there's a lot you can film for documentation which is also good content for TV and Internet. The best music videos still made are hip hop videos even in Africa. What we need to do to take African Hip hop to the next level is projecting our hiphop shows and concerts on all platforms using the present age of our blogging system with good picture quality because to cut the goose chase, what the consumers are vying for is content and good picture quality. The only way we can place our hip hop on the global map is supporting the art and the music. We gotta be passionate about it. It's either we are committed to the cause or not.
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I must confess.. I never knew who he was, though I've heard a couple of his tracks but couldn't recognise he was this amazing even if A million dollars was at stake until I heard a gist about South African super rapper “AKA” shooting the video across the country of his much expected single tittled ‘Sim Dope’ off his album “Levels”. This music video was said to be an interpretation of reality shot in Durban and Johannesburg directed by S.S.P (Studio Space Production). This video I must say is different, it takes you away from the norm of Naija artistes having to shoot stereotype music videos with all that show off of raunchiness in terms of booty shaking and all, it reminds me of J.cole's sideline story. . While it’s not exactly way out of the box kind of thinking, it’s an effort that should be well appreciated and applauded too. The message was well communicated
via its pictures and befits the theme of the song and then the set, props and styling did well in complimenting. All these details, tiny as they are, helped in evening out the score. Though I’m not quite sure what A.K.A was trying to pass across here in terms of lyrics but I'll say 'Sim dope's' lyrics are shallow, yeah it "Seemed dope' but shallow it is for me.. The mid tempo beat makes one just want to keep moving and I particularly like it. Having watched the video a couple of times, I honestly can’t fault it that much because, A.K.A brought it all to the table. The video was just on point with the whole concept of the song. Rating:
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M.anifest- #forgetdem International Ghanaian Hiphop artist M.anifest is known for his artistic content on his videos and his conscious messages being passed through his songs. #Forgetdem which was shot in Capetown, South Africa, shows messages through visuals,telling people to be themselves and forget the negative vibes that thrives in our society. The video was directed by Film Fam and the motion picture is of high quality. The visuals correlates with the message of the song. M.anifest exudes the african culture in both the song and the video. The high
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life guitar riffs in the instrumental is typical of classic afrocentric sounds. The video shows a little bit of humor when M.anifest played the role of a barber, trying to get a good look for his co-worker in an Icecream shop. Choice of colors in the video was at the right usage. The use of costume was also on-point. The video transition was not bad at all. Apparently #forgetdem is a video that would be put on replay. For me it's
Puff Daddy & Dr. Dre top Forbes' "Hip Hop's wealthiest artists 2015" list. Puff Daddy, who topped the "Forbes Five" for the second-year-in- a-row , owns a media entity (Revolt), has a deal with Diageo's Ciroc and recently launched the fitness water Aquahydrate. His net worth is listed at $725 million by the financial publication. Dr. Dre ranked second on the 2015 list, despite his mammoth paycheck from the sale of Beats. Dre's net worth is reportedly $700 million.
More than 10 years after the franchise's most recent installment, which includes the 2005 spin-off Beauty Shop, another Barbershop movie is in the works and Nicki Minaj has been confirmed as an actor for the new follow-up. Former Barbershop cast-members Ice Cube , Eve and Cedric The Entertainer are all set to return in the upcoming sequel. Minaj will play the part of Draya, a hairdresser at the combined beauty and barbershop that serves as the focal point of the movie, and is her first role since her acting debut in The Other Woman last year.
Even while behind bars, Bobby Shmurda pitched movie deals. So far, Shmurda has revealed that he's heard from Meek Mill, French Montana and Sup from Slowbucks while he's been imprisoned. The 20year-old Brooklyn rapper also says he gets mail with business opportunities offers.
With Drake and Madonna's surprise kiss at Coachella a few weeks back still making the rounds on the Internet, when asked how Drake performed as a kisser Madonna answered awkwardly, During an interview with Vlad saying, "You asked the TV, Dr. Boyce Watkins offered million dollar praise to Eminem on his artistry, question," before but also stated that the Detroit, adding, "I kissed a girl Michigan rapper “is a little bit of and I liked it." a product of white privilege.� 39
Firstly, I think they have the right to their opinion, then I think the song was done to create the buzz its currently pulling. Lastly, I think it's an outburst from them with regards to the criticism they have constantly faced from the quote and unquote "hiphop heads" -Cyclone
My thought on the local rapper track, I don't think there's anything like local rapper or international rapper I just think you either spit knowledge or bullshit and since lyrical contents is determined by your state of mind don't expect people with a poverty mind state to spit something that will nourish people’s soul cos they are just trying get fed.-Paragunn Blao
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I heard the song once, to me it was crap they were saying only local rappers are topping the game, their actual reason is because they haven't seen good rappers, if they have seen they won't be saying stuff like that. But I won't blame them, Yoruba rap has been reigning since the era of Da grin, well God be with Olamide and the rest. I'm coming for them.-Jon
Firstly I heard reminisce saying he shouldn't be called a local or indigenous rapper, that he believes hip-hop is hip-hop whether you're rapping in Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa or English. Him now undermining the elements of rap I think he's going against his word.- Kayus
Though I like the song but honestly there are different kinds of hiphop in different cultures and each culture has its own kind of hip hop but they should stop taking shot at English rappersGamestar
I think the song undermines rap elements because the fact that you're an indigenous rapper sometimes restrict you to some particular set of listeners if for instance I'm playing a pitbull song rapping in south America, is only the beat people can relate with and they contradicted themselves. Olamide's saying punchlines, wordplay doesn't bring money anymore and he was using punchlines, word play- Em.A I think the song started a controversy and controversy can never be taken away from music, especially rap music. - Butafly
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Born KUFORIJI OLADIMEJI MICHAEL , the 500L LAW STUDENT of OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY OGUN-STATE NIGERIA, with the stage name "VEEGEE" started music as a recording artiste in 2009, releasing singles upon single , one of such was "BACK TO SCHOOL" released with a Lyrics Video, which was a major hit and became an anthem amongst students. He has undoubtedly remain consistent ever since, The versatile Rapper and Singer was crowned OOU BEST RAPPER in 2013 at the Airtel one Mic Battle. Also with awards and nominations with categories from "Entertainer of the year" to "Artiste of the Year" at the Annual University Crest Awards (ANUCA) where he also rep his institution in the ANUCA theme song. The veteran HIP HOP Artiste , having inspired by the likes of lecrae, Da'truth , Mali Music , Provabs and other Contemporary gospel artiste, is set to release his DEBUT Album titled "STREET AND SCRiPTURE". And HIP HOP and URBAN/CONTEMPORARY project of good tune, great lyrics and message to impact its listeners. The "STREET and SCRiPTURE" movement is a vision to convey a message to as many youth who believe in having a desired good life through self-help and how hard they can hustle on the STREET with the message that a Good life is only subjected to God and a guide which is HIS WORD (THE SCRiPTURE) . Therefore to have a desired life on the acclaimed STREET youth needs Gods Guide "THE SCRiPTURE". We are in an ERA of change and VEEGEE is apparently set to bring a CHANGE into HIP HOP. Ff : IG/TT: @iam_veegee. FB: VEEGEE..