The hip-hop scene in Northern Nigeria is experiencing a dynamic transformation, with female rappers at the forefront of this movement. For years, the industry has been predominantly male-driven, but a fearless and talented new generation of women is redefining the sound and style of Northern Nigerian hip-hop.
Armed with lyrical prowess, infectious beats, and unapologetic confidence, these artists are breaking barriers and creating a more inclusive and vibrant music landscape. They are using hip-hop as a platform to share their stories, challenge societal norms, and celebrate the rich diversity of Northern Nigerian culture.
In this article, LEADERSHIP Sunday highlights the top six female rappers who are reshaping the hip-hop scene in Northern Nigeria, showcasing their unique contributions and the excitement they bring to the region’s burgeoning music industry.
Lil Pee
Promise Bitrus, better known as Lil Pee, hails from Taraba State. The young artist adopted the name ‘Lil’ as she began rapping at a very young age. Inspired by Hausa hip-hop icons like DJ Ab and Morell, Lil Pee pursued her passion and has since made a significant mark in the industry. Known for her energetic performances reminiscent of Nicki Minaj, she consistently ranks high in shows and awards, amassing a dedicated fan base.
Lil Pee has collaborated with notable artists such as Boc, Teeswagz, Kaits, Hazy D Star, and the well-known Jzat, also called Bokan Taraba. As a member of the Mumuye ethnic group, she is multilingual, fluent in Hausa and English, which enriches her music and connects her with a diverse audience.
Hadiza Ya’u
Haddy Yau, widely recognized as Haddy Rapia, proudly claims to be the first female Hausa rapper. Her impressive stage presence and ability to captivate audiences with her mic control showcase her professionalism. Haddy’s lyrics often tackle societal issues, reflecting her commitment to using her platform for positive change.
Through her music, she raises awareness about pressing challenges faced by her community, empowering her listeners and encouraging dialogue. As she continues to gain recognition, Haddy Rapia stands out as a powerful voice for women and marginalized groups in Northern Nigeria.
Falaq Amin
Falaq Amin, a multi-talented rapper, singer, songwriter, and model, was born in Kaduna and later moved to Lagos to pursue her dreams of becoming a rap star. After earning a degree in Agriculture from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, she transitioned into music, working with her management, Aboki Boy Entertainment.
In 2018, she released her major single ‘Haba Dai,’ which captured the attention of music promoters and led to interviews with major radio and TV stations. Falaq became the first female rapper from Northern Nigeria to perform on Radio Nigeria and participate in the MTVBase official Naija Top Ten freestyle session. Her subsequent track ‘Ba Wasa’ premiered on Radio France International, solidifying her reputation as a rising star in the industry.
Aisha Mufeedah
Aisha Mufeedah, born in 1999 and known as Princess Aisha Mufeedah, is another rising star in the hip-hop scene. This singer, actress, and songwriter primarily creates music in the Hausa language, connecting deeply with her audience.
Raised in Maiduguri and later in Abuja, she began her musical journey at 16 and received the accolade of Most Promising Northern Female Hip-Hop Act at the CAFE awards in 2016/17. Aisha’s vibrant style and authentic lyrics resonate with listeners, making her a standout artist in the region.
Safiya Yusuf
Safiya Yusuf, affectionately known as Safaa, initially gained fame as an actress, particularly for her role in ‘Kwana Casa’in.’ However, after facing personal challenges, she shifted her focus to rap music.
Her debut single “Kwalelenka” made waves in the industry, marking her impressive entry despite being relatively new. Safaa’s unique blend of storytelling and rhythmic flow has quickly garnered her recognition and respect in the hip-hop community, showcasing her determination to succeed in this new chapter of her career.
Surayya Amina (Rayya)
Surayya Aminu, known professionally as Rayya, rose to fame through her role in the TV series “Kwana Casa’in.” Her track “YANZU NE,” which features a lineup of prominent artists, has solidified her status in the Hausa hip-hop scene.
Rayya’s ability to fuse traditional themes with modern hip-hop elements makes her a standout artist, as she navigates the challenges of a male-dominated industry. Her dedication to her craft and commitment to uplifting fellow female artists are paving the way for future generations in Northern Nigeria’s music landscape.
Conclusion:
As Northern Nigeria’s hip-hop scene continues to evolve, these six talented female rappers are not only making significant contributions but also inspiring a new generation of artists. Their dedication to their craft, coupled with their ability to address societal issues through music, is reshaping the narrative around women in the industry. By breaking barriers and challenging norms, they are proving that female voices can thrive in a traditionally male-dominated space. As they rise to prominence, their influence will undoubtedly pave the way for future artists, ensuring that the richness and diversity of Northern Nigerian culture continue to resonate in the global hip-hop landscape.
