Explore the dynamic world of Hausa hip hop! This article highlights the top artists of 2021, from established legends to rising stars, who are pushing boundaries and defining the sound of Arewa music with their unique beats and powerful lyrics.
Hausa hip hop is rapidly emerging as a global force, poised to become one of the most valued and celebrated music genres worldwide. The Northern region of Nigeria, known as Arewa, is a hub of incredible talent, and 2021 has been a landmark year for its vibrant entertainment industry.
The spotlight on Northern Nigeria’s music scene is growing, with Hausa rappers and singers gaining recognition for their creativity, lyrical prowess, and cultural authenticity. In this special publication by 360Hausa, we highlight the best Hausa hip hop artists of 2021, showcasing the top 20 artists who are making waves in the Arewa music scene.
From chart-topping albums to viral singles, these artists are redefining Hausa music and pushing it to global audiences. Whether you’re a fan of Hausa rap, Afrobeat, or hip-hop, this list is your guide to the top talents of 2021.
Why Hausa Hip Hop Is Taking Over in 2021
Hausa hip hop blends the rich cultural heritage of Northern Nigeria with modern genres like rap, Afrobeat, and trap, creating a unique sound that resonates with diverse audiences.
In 2021, the Arewa music scene exploded with creativity, driven by artists who delivered back-to-back hits and innovative projects. Platforms like YouTube, Boomplay, and Audiomack have amplified their reach, while social media trends on Instagram and TikTok have made Hausa hip hop a global phenomenon.
These artists are not only entertaining but also preserving Hausa culture through their music, addressing themes like identity, struggle, and pride. Let’s dive into the top Hausa hip hop artists of 2021 and their groundbreaking contributions.
Top 20 Hausa Hip Hop Artists of 2021
Here’s our carefully curated list of the most trending and impactful Hausa hip hop artists who dominated 2021, in no particular order:
DJ AB
Haruna Abdullahi, popularly known as DJ AB, is a Nigerian rapper, musician, producer, songwriter, and performer who has become a household name in Arewa. Since his breakthrough in 2015, DJ AB has delivered hit songs like “Su Baba Ne”, “Yar Boko”, “Babarsa”, “Her Love”, and “Soyayya”. Starting his career with the Yaran North Side (YNS) group in 2011, he honed his skills as a producer and artist.
In 2020, he collaborated with Deezell, BOC Madaki, and Kheengz on the “Four Horsemen” album. In 2021, DJ AB released his highly anticipated EP “Supa” via Subabane Records under emPawa Africa, featuring Di’ja and Mr Eazi. The 8-track project has been a massive success, cementing his status as a leading Hausa hip hop artist.
BOC Madaki
Luka Bulus Madaki, known as BOC Madaki or Barde Ogan Chasu, is a talented Hausa rapper born on September 22, 1993, in Bauchi State. His bilingual rap style and energetic stage performances have made him a fan favorite. Despite being underrated, BOC’s hard work shines through in projects like his debut album “No English”, the 12-track “Sorry Please Thanks”, and the chart-topping “Northy By Nature”, named the Best Hausa Hip Hop Album of 2021. As the most featured Arewa artist, BOC trends daily, proving his influence in the industry.
Deezell
Ibrahim Rufai, aka Deezell, is a Seattle-based Nigerian rapper and actor known for his clever punchlines and strong delivery. Born in Michigan, he returned to Nigeria at age five and has since become one of Arewa’s most famous celebrities. His 2021 releases, including “Duk Abinda Zai Faru Ya Faru” and the project “Super Story”, elevated his profile. After briefly announcing his retirement, Deezell returned with a bang, launching his record label Arewa Cartel to promote Northern artists.
ClassiQ
Buba Barnabas, known as ClassiQ or the Arewa Mafia, rose to fame with his hit single “Duniya”. His notable tracks include “An Fara”, “Hau Pa”, “Gargajiya”, “Gudu” (featuring MI Abaga), and “Hoto”. Signed to Chocolate City Music, ClassiQ released the viral video for “Gargajiya” and the EP “Class Walk” in 2021, along with the single “Yaran Zamai” featuring Ice Prince. His collaboration with Thamarvel on “Simple Life” further showcased his versatility.
Morell
Musa Akila, aka Morell or Musa Jikan Musa, is a pioneer of Northern hip hop and Afro-pop. Known for hits like “Anti Social” (featuring Olamide), “Ganga da Garaya”, “Aure”, and “Haba”, Morell released his album “MVNSA” in 2021. His earlier project “Musa Jikan Musa” and upcoming work “ENGHAUSA” highlight his enduring influence. Morell’s 2018 City People Music Award for Best R&B Music Act underscores his legacy.
Kheengz
King Bawa, aka Kheengz or the Voice of Arewa (VOA), went viral with his single “I Am North”, sparking a movement. His projects include “College Kid Mixtape” (featuring MI Abaga), “VOA1”, “Pedestal EP”, and “VOA2” in 2020. In 2021, Kheengz collaborated with Falz and MI Abaga on “Who Be This Guy”, a chart-topping hit, and joined DJ AB, Deezell, and BOC Madaki on the “Four Horsemen” album, solidifying his status as a Hausa hip hop icon.
Lsvee
Lukman Alhassan, known as Lsvee, is a Kaduna-based rapper and computer science graduate from Alqalam University. His hits “Kudin Makarantana” (featuring DJ AB) and “Akwati Dozen” have made him one of Arewa’s most promising artists in 2021, delivering consistent back-to-back hits.
8–20. Other Notable Artists:
Feezy
Teeswag
Bash Neh Pha
Riky Ultra
Soja Boy
Mickey De Viper
Baba Yanks Manjago
Mai Dawah
Lil Prince
Don R
Divadi
Madox TTB
Fresh Emir
These artists have pushed the boundaries of Hausa hip hop, delivering innovative projects that resonate with fans globally.
The Rise of Hausa Hip Hop in 2021Hausa hip hop’s rise in 2021 is a testament to the talent and creativity of Arewa artists. By blending Hausa language and culture with modern rap and Afrobeat, these artists have created a genre that’s both authentic and universally appealing. Their music videos, filled with vibrant visuals and storytelling, have trended on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, attracting millions of views. Collaborations with mainstream Nigerian artists like MI Abaga, Olamide, and Falz have further elevated Hausa hip hop’s global profile.
How to Support Hausa Hip Hop Artists
Supporting these artists is key to the growth of the Arewa music scene. Here’s how you can help:
Stream their music: Listen on platforms like Boomplay, Audiomack, Spotify, and YouTube to boost their rankings.
Share their work: Promote their songs and videos on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.
Attend live shows: Experience their energy at Arewa events and concerts.
Engage online: Follow their pages, comment on posts, and join discussions about Hausa hip hop trends.
Your support can help these artists achieve global recognition and potentially earn accolades like Grammy nominations.
Why Hausa Hip Hop Matters
Hausa hip hop is more than music; it’s a cultural movement that celebrates Northern Nigeria’s identity, language, and pride. These artists address universal themes like struggle, love, and ambition, making their music relatable to diverse audiences. As the Arewa entertainment industry grows, Hausa hip hop is paving the way for future generations to shine on the global stage.
Looking Ahead to 2022As we move into 2022, the mytrendcaster team is committed to supporting these artists through awards, platforms, and initiatives that celebrate their talent. The creativity and competition in 2021 have set a high bar, and we expect even more groundbreaking projects in the coming year.
The best Hausa hip hop artists of 2021 have proven that Arewa music is a force to be reckoned with. From DJ AB’s “Supa” EP to BOC Madaki’s “Northy By Nature”, these artists have delivered unforgettable music that resonates globally.
At 360Hausa, we’re proud to spotlight these talents and encourage fans to support their journey. Share this article with friends, drop your comments on your favorite Hausa hip hop artist, and let’s celebrate the Arewa music scene together. God bless Arewa!
