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M.I Abaga leads Nasty C’s list of top 5 Nigerian rappers
South African artist Nsikayesizwe David Junior Ngcobo, known professionally as Nasty C, has disclosed his top 5 Nigerian rappers, shedding light on the continuous evolution of Nigerian hip-hop since the turn of the millennium. As a prominent figure in African rap, particularly among the younger generation, Nasty C’s musical contributions significantly impact the commercial appeal of hip-hop.
During an interview with Glitch Africa, Nasty C unveiled his list, with the legendary M.I Abaga claiming the top spot. M.I Abaga, a multi-award-winning rapper with a career spanning over a decade, has played a pivotal role in the success and domestication of rap in Nigeria.
Securing the second position is Olamide Baddo, whose adept fusion of rap and local elements has popularized hip-hop in Nigeria. Olamide stands as one of the most awarded, commercially successful, and influential artists in the Nigerian music scene.
Taking the third spot is the Igbo-speaking rap sensation Phyno, renowned for his award-winning contributions to the continent’s rap scene. Phyno’s music has played a crucial role in elevating local rap artists to the forefront of the industry.
Nasty C’s list continues with the inclusion of ODUMODUBLVCK at the fourth position, a minted hip-hop star, and Blaqbonez at the fifth position, representing the new school frontline. Both artists contribute to the dynamic landscape of Nigerian rap, according to Nasty C’s rankings.
Nasty Cโs top 5 Nigerian rappers
1.M.I Abaga
2.Olamide
3.Phyno
4.OdumoduBlvck
5.Blaqbonez pic.twitter.com/gXYJanGkKm— ๐ฌ @๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐ท๐ผ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ๐๐๐ฏ๐ผ๐ (@OneJoblessBoy) December 6, 2023
In 2023, ODUMODUBLVCK emerged as one of the hottest Nigerian artists, credited with revitalizing hip-hop and sparking a renewed commercial interest in the genre within Nigeria. His recent release of the deluxe version of the 2023 mixtape ‘EZIOKWU,’ featuring a collaboration with Nasty C on a track, further solidifies his impact on the Nigerian music scene.
Similarly, Blaqbonez has been a pioneer in propelling hip-hop forward in Nigeria. His genre-fusion music, infused with contemporary elements and marked by innovative marketing approaches, positions him as a key figure in the evolution of the genre.
It’s noteworthy that Nasty C, a South African rapper, has openly shared that his formative years were influenced by several Nigerian stars, including Wande Coal and Phyno. This attests to the cross-cultural impact and inspiration that Nigerian artists have had on Nasty C’s musical journey.