Stylistic origins Hip hop, Igbo traditional music, African American music Cultural origins Late 1990s
Southeastern Nigeria (especially Enugu) Typical instruments Rapping, vocals, keyboard, sampler, drums | ||
Igbo rap is a Nigerian style of hip hop music that originated in the Igbo-dominated southeastern region of Nigeria and has become more popular since 2000. The style draws its main influences from Igbo traditional music and African American music. Aside other derived styles, it can be combined with highlife, R&B and afro-soul. Most artists and groups who perform Igbo rap usually deliver their lyrics in the Igbo language, although on some occasions, Igbo is blended with Pidgin English.
Early pioneers in the scene include Mr Raw (formerly Dat N.I.G.G.A. Raw), Massai (He later moved on with Legal Profession), Slow Dog, MC Loph and 2Shotz. Today, many musical acts like Phyno, Zoro, Hype MC (who is the younger brother of Mr Raw), K- Large (who is considered the fastest Igbo rapper) and Tidinz are considered Igbo rap artists, while more and more ears become accustomed to the indigenous sound.