Ghana has been home to some of the most recognizable musical exports from the African continent, contributing heavily to the globalization and development of the continent's sound. While highlife is regarded as the country’s biggest sonic export, the introduction of hiplife some 30 years ago invigorated the Ghanaian music scene and birthed some of the country's most important artists. 

Hiplife music blends hip-hop from the West with Ghanaian highlife sounds like Jama and Kpanlogo — a sound and dance by the Ga people, who make use of nono (metal bell), fao (gourd rattle), and local drums to play beats. These elements were fused with funk, bass, and boom-bap to create hiplife. Hiplife and hip-hop have aural similarities and both use rapping; both genres also reflect a larger culture. 

While Gyedu-Blay Ambolley is considered one of the earliest rappers, as demonstrated on his 1973 song "Simigwa-Do," the term "hiplife" was only coined in the late 1990s by genre pioneer Reggie Rockstone. Still, American hip-hop had arrived in the Ghanaian capital of Accra by the early '90s and local rappers began to release their own music soon after. Duo Talking Drum were among this early cohort, and their single "Aden" was an underground hit in 1993.

As a movement and culture, hiplife is also an identity,  created to encourage people to be daring in their exploration of sound. Pioneering hiplife artists like Root Eye Samini and Shatta Wale (then known as Bandana) fused dancehall and highlife in the early 2000s to make music which could connect with local audiences.  

Collaborations between artists and producers have been crucial in defining the sound, evolution, and amplification of hiplife. Just as hip-hop has developed a plethora of subgenres, hiplife has birthed other sounds such as azonto and asakaa. An offshoot of asakaa, Ghanaian drill, was among the elements in the new Best African Music Performance Category at the 2024 GRAMMYs.

The story of hiplife includes many important producers, artists and labels, including Kassa Records, DJ Rab, Zapp Mallet, Akyeame, Panji Anoff, JayQ, Hammer,  Ex Doe, Chicago, and Okomfour Kwadee. Going forward, the mantle will fall on artists like TicTac, Abrewa Nana, Appietus, and much later a younger generation including  Asem, Richie Mensah, and Beeztrap KOTM continue to amplify hiplife. Afrobeats artists have also taken notice; Tic Tac and Tony Tetuila’s "Fefe Ne Fe" was sampled on the 2019 song "Gbese" by DJ Tunez feat. Wizkid and Blaqjerzee. 

With African music continuing to gain global recognition, the rich sounds emanating from the African continent are ripe for exploration.  Read on for 10 artists who have been essential to the story of hiplife music.

Reggie Rockstone is regarded by many Ghanaians as the godfather of hiplife, having paved the path for many to pursue rapping as a career. Working with producers like the late Rab Bakari (DJ Rab Bakari), Reggie set the ball rolling for hiplife through songs like "Tsooboi." 

His 1997 album Makaa Maka offered an early template for the sound, fusing Western-influenced hip-hop with traditional Ghanaian highlife sounds. The linguistically adept Reggie Rockstone — a Ghanaian boy who was raised in the UK and New York — rapped in both English and impeccable Ghanaian Twi to the shock and admiration of many. By this singular act, he proved that it was cool to rap in your own dialect and not necessarily in English, like American rappers of the '90s.

Reggie's will to make Ghanaian rap music stand out via releases like Me Na Me Kae, and Me Ka did not go unrewarded. He also scored hits with his singles "Keep Your Eyes on the Road," "Plan Ben," and "AH." He has also collaborated withdancehall giant Beenie Man and Nigerian legend 2Face.

Lord Kenya rose to fame when he joined Slip Music, one of Ghana’s celebrated music labels of the late '90s and mid-2000s. His musicality was undeniable, and his hardcore rap style was adored by many for its energetic flow and delivery.  Likened to Tupac Shakur, Kenya was very direct whenever he was on the mic. He never shied away from any lyrical battle thus earning him the title "rap heavyweight." His swagger on and off the mic made him a star, with many eager to catch him anytime he performed.  

Lord Kenya's street affinity, coupled with great stage performances, left a mark on Ghanaian audiences. His albums — including 1998's Sika Card, Yesom Sika, and Sika Baa — solidified his position as one of hiplife’s most important artists. Kenya's hit singles "Enyomo," "Medo" and "Sika Mpo Mfa Neho" as well as his verse on the late Daseebre Dwamena’s song, "Kookoo" ushered in a street approach to the rap scene, as seen in the careers of rappers like Kwaw Kese and Kweku Smoke in later years.

Revered, celebrated, and crowned by music rap purists in Ghana as "Rap Sofo" (high priest of rap), Obrafour influenced multiple generations of rappers in Ghana. The artist first gained popularity in the late '90s with his cadence and mastery over his mother tongue, Twi, as well as his storytelling, lyricism, and wisdom.

Obrafour’s flow complemented the work of legendary producer Hammer, who brought hard-hitting drums, horns, and legendary sharp chords to Obrafour’s 1999 album Pae Mu Ka. The album is regarded as the bridge that connected older audiences who dismissed hiplife as a passing fad and the youth, who regarded hiplife as the future of Ghanaian music. Today, Pae Mu Ka is as important to hiplife as Nas’ Illmatic is to hip-hop.

Pae Mu Ka was the first of several collaborations between Obrafour and Hammer. Together, they created a sound that would influence generations of rappers. Obrafour is held in high regard by rappers such as M.anifest, Guru, Ko-Jo Cue, and Pappy Kojo.

Established in Nima, a suburb of Accra, VIP underwent significant personnel changes but never let their commitment to hiplife music falter. Original member Friction later onboarded Promzy, Prodigal, and Lazzy (who later changed his name to Zeal), and Bone championed the vision of the group for over a decade (as well as the departure of  Friction, Bone and Promzy).

Backed by the group's diverse personalities, VIP quickly became one of the biggest music exports of the country, winning six awards at the Ghana Music Awards in (2004), including Song Of The Year for the 2003 hit title track "Ahomka Wo Mu." Over a two-decade period, the group released albums and scored several hits and collaborated with some of the continent's finest, including  2Face, Patoranking and a host of others. Vision in Progress (VIP) epitomized the cultural ethos of hiplife: raw energy, passion and talent.

When Reggie Rockstone, a longtime admirer of the group, arrived in 2014, the group became  VVIP. The group’s success would be further cemented as they crossed over into Nigeria and other parts of the world. "Ahomka Wo Mu" has been sampled and interpolated by various musicians, including songs by  MUT4Y & Wizkid  and Kida Kudz.

While Twi rapping artists dominated the hiplife music industry, very few artists were successfully making music in other local dialects. Tinny — a rapper who raps in Ga, a language spoken by the people of Accra —  rose to the occasion with both rap and fashion. Another product of Hammer’s Last Two record label, Tinny had an unmatched aura that earned him the moniker "Sexy Man Tinny." Early aughts albums such as Makola Kwakwe, Aletse (Akwe Polo), and Kaa Bu Ame still echo in today’s industry. His later works with record producer Richie Mensah on singles like "Ringtone" and "Now I Know" further entrenched his name in Ghana’s hiplife history.

Tinny’s will to pursue rap music in Ga laid the foundation for artists such as Edem, who raps predominantly in Ewe and to a degree music duo Blackstone who performed in Dagbani. Tinny also featured in the BET Hiphop Awards International Cypher (Ghana) alongside Reggie Rockstone, Sarkodie, D Black, Edem, Kwaku-T and Baby G (2010).

In a male-dominated industry, Mzbel created change that still reverberates today through the careers of women like Amaarae, Wendy Shay, Sister Afia and Gyakie. Following in the footsteps of those before her, like Abrewa Nana (a household name in the early 2000s for her role as one of the leading female artists in hiplife), Mzbel's singing and rap skills were not just catchy, but thought-provoking with themes of love, sex, body positivity, and addressing abuse.

Mzbel's non-conformity made her a target by some aspects of the industry. The general public who felt she was a bad influence on younger girls, due to the sensuality in her lyrics and imagery. Yet she was unphased. Mzbel scored national hits with her albums Awosome, and 2005's 16 Years, and touched on issues many regarded as controversial. The rapper stood up for women’s rights and encouraged women to be vocal about things society heavily criticizes women for. She ensured that women were not bullied into silence but instead express themselves fully through art. Her hit single "16 Years" with the late Castro touched on the issue of sexual harassment and abuse young girls face at the hands of older men and, as such, became a national topic.

Since bursting onto the scene in 2008, Sarkodie has churned out multiple hits year after year with a unique flow and delivery. His records touch on multiple subjects, including friendship, family, love, heartbreak, and bad governance. His hold over rap in Ghana has been extended across the continent, making him one of the most influential rappers in Africa.

In 2012, Sarkodie played a pivotal role in the amplification of azonto music (an offshoot of hiplife that melds dance music genre from the early 2010s with upbeat fast-paced sounds and witty comical lyrics) with his song "U Go Kill Me" with fellow rapper E.L. Winning "Artist Of The Decade at the" Ghana Music Awards (2019), cemented his influence and status.

Rapping predominantly in Twi, Sarkodie’s ability to find pockets on the beat has made him a frequent featured artist by the likes of Mr. Eazi, Ice Prince, Flavour, Victoria Kimani, Patoranking and a host of other important artists in Africa. Sarkodie won Best International Act: Africa (2012) and the inaugural Best International Flow at the BET Hiphop Awards in 2019. 

In a time when hiplife had taken a back seat to Afrobeats and amapiano on the Ghanaian market, a group of artists from Kumasi (Kumerica) — a slang used to describe people of Kumasi who enthusiasts of American music and culture — burst onto the scene via asakaa, or Ghanaian drill. Inspired by Pop Smoke’s drill music, the sound reflects their lifestyle on the streets of Kumasi, hiplife elements, and American hip-hop culture such as fashion.

The name asakaa originates from the word saka, a flipped slang of the Twi word kasa, which means to speak. Saka, a style of speaking where words are pronounced backwards, was heard in the songs that were released by the Asakaa Boys. The asakaa sound is credited to the Kumasi-based Life Living Records, and signees Jay Bahd, Kawabanga, O’Kenneth, City Boy, Kwaku DMC, Reggie, Sean Lifer, Braa Benk and Skyface SDW under the moniker The Asakaa Boys.

With songs like "Akatafoc", "Sore," and "Agyeiwaa," and leading the charge, Asakaa (Ghanaian Drill) has gained recognition locally and internationally in the 2020s.

Black Sherif may be young, but he has already charted a path of success for himself in Ghana’s music industry which many are yet to match. Black Sherif’s sound, writing, fashion, and mannerisms have earned him admiration. He first tasted popularity when his song "Money" went viral in 2019; two years later he regained public attention in 2021 with his First and Second Sermon songs and after a Burna Boy cosign on "Second Sermon Remix," Black Sherif's popularity soared.

The artist has gone on to deliver multiple hit songs such as "Kweku The Traveller," "Soja," and a monstrous guest verse on Odumodu Blvck’s "Wotowoto Seasoning." In 2023 he won Artiste of the Year at the Ghana Music Awards and aBET Awards Best International Award. Additionally, he has performed on global stages atMOBO Awards, Wireless Festival, and 2023's AfroNation.

With a charisma like that of Lord Kenya, King Paluta is an energetic rapper with some "thugness" in his delivery influenced by life on the streets of Kumasi. As a young man, he often slept in the studio, where he learned how to operate the equipment in the studio and dropped his first official single in 2015. 

Despite releasing music and being popular in Kumasi, he would only gain national attention in 2023 for "Yahitte," which earned him the award as the Best New Artist at The Ghana Music Awards in 2024. In the 2024 alone, he has scored two charting-topping singles, "Aseda" and "Makoma," making him arguably the hottest artist in Ghana.

As a student of hiplife, King Paluta has fully embodied the genre as evident in his music. He has positioned himself to carry on the legacy of those before him as far as hiplife is concerned, and he is on track thus far.

1989 was a year of many highlights, from the debut of "The Simpsons" and "Seinfeld" to the collapse of the Berlin Wall and the beginning of the Gameboy. It was also the first year hip-hop artists won GRAMMY Awards, an honor that went to D.J. Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince for "Parents Just Don't Understand."

Hip-hop and the GRAMMYs have come a long way in the ensuing decades. While Will Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff broke barriers with their win for Best Rap Performance, the duo boycotted the show because the rap Category was not televised. The boycott proved successful, as the genre Categories began to be televised during the following year, in 1990, and every year since then.  

Read more: Who Are The Top GRAMMY Awards Winners Of All Time? Who Has The Most GRAMMYs?

Now, the Recording Academy celebrates the sounds of hip-hop and acknowledges the genre’s indelible impact; few genres have disrupted and defined music on such a global scale. Hip-hop rappers, producers and songwriters have significantly shaped the musical landscape, garnering a bevy of golden gramophones along the way. And although many artists have taken home GRAMMY Awards since ‘89, there a few artists in the game reign supreme. 

Read on for 10 hip-hop artists who have not only dominated the charts, but who are also decorated with the most GRAMMY wins.

Jay-Z

25 wins, 89 nominations

Rapper and business mogul Jay-Z not only holds the record of having the most GRAMMYs of any hip-hop artist, he is also among the most nominated artists of any genre in GRAMMY history.

The rapper’s GRAMMY wins include Best Rap Album, which he won in 1998 for his album Vol. 2…Hard Knock Life. The album, which was nominated for two additional GRAMMYs, was his highest selling and included songs such as “Hard Knock Life” and “Can I Get A…” featuring Ja Rule and Amil. 

Learn more: Songbook: How Jay-Z Created The 'Blueprint' For Rap's Greatest Of All Time

In 2006, Jay-Z made his musical debut at the GRAMMYs when he performed “Numb/Encore” with Linkin Park and “Yesterday’ with Paul McCartney. From solo hits to collabs with some of the most legendary artists in music, Jay-Z has dominated the GRAMMYs and shows no signs of slowing down. 

Read more: 8 Ways Jay-Z's 'The Black Album' Changed The Hip-Hop Game

His influence was further acknowledged In 2024, when he was bestowed with the prestigious Dr. Dre GRAMMY Global Impact Award. In June 2025, his debut album Reasonable Doubt was inducted into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame. Not only has he been instrumental in East Coast hip-hop, he has had a hand in shaping fashion and other societal pillars on a global scale, opening doors for artists to go beyond music and branch off into other ventures. 

Kanye West

24 wins, 76 nominations

Kanye West has the second most GRAMMYs of any hip-hop artist, with 24 awards and 76 nominations. His GRAMMY accolades in multiple fields and Categories highlight his versatility as an artist: such as Jesus is King (Best Contemporary Christian Music Album) and The College DropOut (Best Rap Album), the latter of which was his first GRAMMY win in 2004. His awards also reflect his work as a producer; his GRAMMY wins in this arena include Best R&B Song for Alicia Keys’ hit “You Don’t Know My Name,” which West also co-wrote.

West also took home a golden gramophone Best Rap Solo Performance for the hit song "Gold Digger" with Jamie Foxx. At 2008 GRAMMYs, he performed his hit “Stronger” alongside Daft Punk, complete with illuminated, futuristic visuals. In all, Kanye has pushed boundaries with music and art, sampling songs and turning performances into experiences.

Kendrick Lamar

22 wins, 57 nominations

Kendrick Lamar’s wins represents a return of “conscious” rap that tackles topics such as race and politics while embracing the art of authentic storytelling. As such, his 2015 album To Pimp a Butterfly gave way to many social justice anthems such as “Alright” and “Wesley’s Theory”; the release also took home the award for Best Rap Album at the 58th GRAMMY Awards.

Further reading: Kendrick Lamar's GRAMMY Timeline: From His First Win And Performances To "Not Like Us"

Additionally, Lamar’s most successful album, DAMN — which features hits like “DNA" and “Humble" — won five GRAMMYs awards. At the 2025 GRAMMYs, the rapper's hit single “Not Like Us” swept its Categories. Among Lamar's wins that night were Record Of The Year, Song Of The Year and Best Music Video. 

Learn more: Kendrick Lamar Sweeps The 2025 GRAMMYs With Song Of The Year Win

Kendrick Lamar’s influence extends to broader cultural events, such as his groundbreaking 2025 Super Bowl halftime show. The show had record shattering viewership, and has become the most watched show since the Super Bowl’s inception, toppling over 130 million views. 

Eminem

15 wins, 47 nominations

Eminem’s influence in the industry is evident not only by his chart-topping hits, but also by the number of golden gramophones he has secured. The Detroit rapper, who has effortlessly merged lyrical skill with shock, is both among the best-selling artists of all time and the rapper with the most GRAMMY awards.

Further reading: Songbook: A Deep Dive Into Eminem's Inimitable Career

He is also the only rapper who has won the award for Best Rap Album for three consecutive LPs. Eminem won his first GRAMMYs for The Slim Shady LP; these awards include Best Rap Solo Performance ("My Name Is"), as well as the award for Best Rap Album. 2000's The Marshall Mathers LP, which features "The Real Slim Shady" and "Forget About Dre," won three GRAMMY Awards/ The album also features Eminem's hit song "Stan," which the artist performed at the GRAMMYs as a duet with Elton John.

Read more: 4 Reasons Why Eminem's 'The Slim Shady LP' Is One Of The Most Influential Rap Records

Pharrell Williams

13 wins, 39 nominations

Pharrell Williams' versatility as a rapper, producer, pop artist and songwriter has garnered 13 GRAMMY wins. His awards showcase different facets of his artistry, from his days as a member of the group the Neptunes, to his work as a solo artist and producer.

From Beyoncé to Britney Spears, he has worked with a range of artists and has thrice taken home the golden gramophone for Producer Of The Year, Non Classical. Highlighting his production work, Pharrell's first GRAMMY was for producing Justin Timberlake’s 2003 album  Justified. His collaboration with Daft Punk spawned the popular hit "Get Lucky," which won GRAMMYs Awards for Record Of The Year and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. 

As an artist and producer, Pharrell is able to blend pop and hip-hop effortlessly. Pharrell’s "Happy," from the Despicable Me 2 soundtrack, took home two GRAMMY Awards (as well as an Oscar nomination) and became one of the best-selling singles of the 2010s. Though Pharrell’s ingenuity has opened doors for him to work with an array of artists, he still holds hip-hop in high regard. In recent years, his work on Kendrick Lamar’s albums has spawned several GRAMMYs and nominations–including a win for Kendrick’s song "Alright" off of his album To Pimp a Butterfly. 

Learn more: 4 Ways Pharrell Williams Has Made An Impact: Supporting The Music Industry, Amplifying Social Issues & More

Andre "3000" Benjamin

9 wins, 28 nominations

Andre 3000’s innovative sound and style has pushed creative boundaries in music and netted multiple GRAMMY Awards. Andre 3000's wins and nominations–in both rap and R&B–reflect his work as a solo artist and as part of the group OutKast. His wins include Best Rap Album for Stankonia, as well as Best Urban/Alternative Performance for the hit song "Hey Ya," off of the Speakerboxxx/The Love Below album. Additionally, Andre 3000 has also won a GRAMMY for Best R&B Performance for his feature on Anderson .Paak’s song "Come Home."

His versatility as an artist is evident on his recent instrumental jazz album, New Blue Sun, which earned him three nominations at the 2025 GRAMMYs. Additionally, this album showcases a departure from some of the sounds Andre 3000 is known for, and shows audiences that he is unafraid to challenge musical conventions. 

Read more: André 3000 On 'New Blue Sun,' Finding Inspiration In Visual Art & His New Musical Journey

Anderson .Paak 

9 wins, 14 nominations

Although Anderson .Paak is best known for his contributions to R&B, he has netted GRAMMYs for his work as a rapper. He won his first GRAMMY for "Bubblin," a song which took home Best Rap Performance at the 2019 GRAMMYs. At the 2021 GRAMMY Awards, he won Best Melodic Rap Performance for his single "Lockdown." Additionally, he has also secured multiple GRAMMY wins as part of the R&B duo Silk Sonic with Bruno Mars.

The group’s best-selling album, An Evening With Silk Sonic, features the hit song "Leave the Door Open" and brings together R&B and funk. The melodious genre mix ultimately earned the group GRAMMYs for Best R&B Performance and Record Of The Year. 

As a solo artist, Anderson .Paak has also carved out a distinctive and celebrated career, earning multiple GRAMMYs for his genre-bending albums that showcase his unique blend of singing and rapping. 

Lauryn Hill

8 wins, 19 nominations 

Lauryn Hill has established a benchmark for female artists in hip-hop, setting an exceptionally high bar that many artists still aspire to reach. 

Her seminal 1998 album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, achieved widespread critical acclaim before becoming one of the best-selling albums of all time. Additionally, it is the first hip-hop album to win a GRAMMY for Album Of The Year. The album ultimately launched Lauryn Hill’s career into the stratosphere; she became the first female rapper with a diamond-certified album. It is also the only solo album Lauryn has put forward to date. In 2024, the album was inducted into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame. 

Read more: Revisiting 'The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill': Why The Multiple GRAMMY-Winning Record Is Still Everything 25 Years Later

Although Lauryn Hill’s artistry and lyrical depth has garnered her GRAMMYs as a solo artist, her success also stems from her contributions as a songwriter and vocalist for the hip-hop group the Fugees. The group’s second album, The Score, earned two GRAMMYs and includes the hit song "Killing Me Softly," which is a rendition of Roberta Flack’s original.Additionally, at the 42nd GRAMMY Awards, Lauryn Hill also won a GRAMMY for her work on Santana’s influential album Supernatural, which was inducted into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame this year. 

Dr. Dre

7 wins, 26 nominations

Dr. Dre was and remains a highly influential figure in West Coast hip-hop, who has achieved significant success as a rapper, producer and founding member of the group N.W.A.

Throughout his extensive career, Dr. Dre has earned seven GRAMMYs, including the first win for Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical by a hip-hop producer and artist. 

His acclaimed solo album, The Chronic garnered Dr. Dre his first GRAMMY for his single "Let Me Ride" (Best Rap Solo Performance). His best-selling album 2001, was also GRAMMY nominated and features popular tracks like "Still D.R.E." and "The Next Episode" with Snoop Dogg. Beyond his solo achievements, he has been instrumental in launching the careers of artists such as Eminem and producing classic albums for both Snoop Dogg and 50 Cent.

In 2023, Dr. Dre was honored with having the distinguished GRAMMY Global Impact Award carry his namesake. Since the award’s inception, Jay-Z and Alicia Keys have received this accolade.

OutKast

6 wins, 16 nominations 

OutKast’s creative approach to hip-hop has helped them win six GRAMMYs and secure 16 nominations. The duo of Andre "3000" Benjamin and Antwan "Big Boi" Patton, have pushed genre boundaries blending rap, jazz, and pop while staying true to their Southern roots. In 2001, OutKast won their first GRAMMY Awards, one being Best Rap Album for Stankonia.

Their 2004 win for their innovative double album Speakerboxxx/The Love Below was a defining moment for Southern rap; it notably became the second hip-hop album to receive the GRAMMY for Album Of The Year and Best Rap Album. The album, which was certified diamond, features multiple chart-topping hits such as "The Way You Move" featuring Sleepy Brown and "Hey Ya."

Read more: 10 Reasons Why Outkast's 'Speakerboxxx/The Love Below' Is One Of Rap's Most Influential Double Albums

Honorable Mentions

There are many hip-hop artists who have received extensive nominations but have yet to receive a GRAMMY Award — notwithstanding their important contributions to the genre. Snoop Dogg, Busta Rhymes, Nicki Minaj, Travis Scott and Rick Ross each have numerous nominations but no golden gramophone. Snoop leads this pack with a total of 16 nominations, followed by Busta and Minaj (each with a dozen), Scott (10), and Ross (nine). Post Malone stands out, however, with 18 career nominations and no wins.

Mercury Prize-nominated rapper Little Simz has spent the past decade establishing herself as one of Britain's most vital hip-hop voices. She's carved out a distinctive lane that prioritizes introspection over industry trends, crafting albums that function as cohesive artistic statements rather than collections of singles.

Born Simbi Ajikawo in North London, Little Simz's musical journey began with a series of mixtapes and EPs that showcased her lyrical dexterity, but it was 2019's GREY Area that announced her as a force to be reckoned with. Far from ambiguous or without footing, the album finds Little Simz toggling between rhymes about societal decay and the murkiness of being in your mid-20s. GREY Area earned Simz widespread critical acclaim and a Mercury Prize nomination, setting up the British rapper as an artist capable of balancing commercial appeal with uncompromising artistry.

2021's Mercury Prize-nominated Sometimes I Might Be Introvert showcased another creative leap forward with orchestral arrangements and expansive, theatrical compositions. The project unfolds like a compelling piece of comedy or a play where listeners laugh, sing, and get so caught up in the flow that they occasionally forget the depth of the lyrics. Simz tackles themes of family, the public versus the private self and personal growth, often compelling the listener to sit with their weight.

Simz's output is defined by creative control and authenticity, both of which have cultivated a devoted fanbase that appreciates lyrical defiance and her refusal to compromise her vision. Her music draws from jazz, neo-soul, alternative hip-hop, and one could argue slam poetry influences, creating a sound that feels both distinctly British and universally resonant.

Lotus, the artist's latest release, finds Little Simz continuing this evolution. Having spent previous albums establishing her voice, this sixth studio effort promises to showcase her at her most confident and experimental. Early tracks suggest an artist who has found peace with her journey while remaining hungry for new creative challenges.

Where Sometimes I Might Be Introvert was introspective and occasionally melancholic, previews of Lotus indicate a sense of self-assurance. The production appears both lush and minimalist, allowing space for Little Simz's vocals to command attention while showcasing the subtle complexities of her songcraft.

Enter Little Simz's thoughtful universe with five songs essential to her discography, then press play on Lotus when it arrives June 6.

"No More in Wonderland" (2016)

The final offering from Little Simz's 2016 sophomore album Stillness In Wonderland showcases her as a realist who cuts through delusion while still creating her own musical world. Full of glossy instrumentals  — think horns painting the background  — "No More in Wonderland" is a jazzy symphony that's warm, authentic, and deeply textured. 

The song serves as Simbi's decisive moment to leave the comfort of fantasy and return to reality where "real s— is happening and my people need me." It's Little Simz demonstrating her ability to craft both escapist art and grounded wisdom within the same sonic space.

"Venom" (2019)

From the breakthrough album GREY Area, "Venom" remains Little Simz's most ferocious statement of intent. Over menacing production that builds tension throughout its runtime, she unleashes rapid-fire verses that highlight her technical brilliance and channel a righteous fury. Simz grapples with artistic integrity, perseverance and the weight of inner demons — among them, paranoia and psychological strain — that are certainly venomous. 

The track is a dual punch, both a warning and an invitation that leaves no doubt about her capabilities as an MC.

"Woman" feat. Cleo Sol (2021)

Pulled from Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, Little Simz's most emotionally resonant record, "Woman" is an exploration of Black womanhood. Little Simz's verses unfold like a private diary entry shared out loud. The collaboration with fellow Brit Cleo Sol creates beautiful contrasts between vulnerability and strength. 

Simz serves as hip-hop's extension of the neo-soul genre, celebrating the women of the African diaspora from Jamaica, Brooklyn, Ghana, and beyond. Together, Cleo and Simz have written an ode and affirmation that resonates far beyond place, a feminist anthem for the 21st century.

"Gorilla" (2022)

From her fifth studio album No Thank You, "Gorilla" proves Little Simz is a student of the Black music tradition. The track interpolates Beenie Man's 1997 dancehall classic "Who Am I? (Sim Simma)" while sampling Ramsey Lewis's "Summer Breeze," creating a sonic tapestry that honors her influences. Her flow is reminiscent of A Tribe Called Quest — cocky and youthful — delivering verses that sound like an off-the-dome cypher. 

"Gorilla" is a victory lap, complete with big horns and even a choir on the bridge, celebrating her perseverance and continued presence in the game. It's Little Simz at her most triumphant, declaring that she's still here after everything.

"Free" (2024)

"Free" is deeply introspective and soulful, clearly marking a standout moment on the forthcoming Lotus album. Originally conceived as a poem, the track finds Little Simz exploring the limits and definitions of freedom and fear with the intimacy of a weekly therapy appointment. Rather than approaching themes of independence through struggle and strife, she reframes freedom as an extension of love and peace, with a catchy hook to carry it. 

Produced by Miles Clinton James (who has worked with fellow Brits Kokoroko),  the song's  soul-influenced instrumentation provides the perfect backdrop for this contemplation. The track doesn't rest solely on its feel-good nature and immediate catchiness; Little Simz never trades away her poignant MC skills, proving that accessibility and lyrical depth can coexist seamlessly.

New age African artists are making waves around the world, now more than ever. But that may have not been possible without trailblazers like Davido.

Born in Atlanta and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Davido (born David Adedeji Adeleke) laid the groundwork for Afrobeats in the early 2010s thanks to buzzworthy songs like "Gobe," "Skelewu," "Like Dat,"  and "The Money"; he has since earned a reputation for creating nostalgic sing-along anthems and lively Afrobeat tracks. Along the way, Davido has also pushed the limits of African music — bridging the gap between local and global artists, and collaborating with musicians like Chris Brown, Asake, Summer Walker, Angélique Kidjo, Burna Boy, and Lil Baby.

Now that he's getting to enjoy the ride alongside several other global acts, he can't help but gush. "[African music] has been at a peak, reaching mainstream [attention] the past few years that I don't think it's ever been at before," Davido told GRAMMY.com in 2024. "It's an amazing thing to witness and be a part of."

On April 18, the four-time GRAMMY nominee will release his aptly titled fifth album, 5ive. As hinted by pre-release tracks "Be There Still," "Awuke" featuring YG Marley, and "Funds" featuring ODUMODUBLVCK and Chike, fans can expect lively, catchy records that celebrate life and his heritage.

Ahead of the highly anticipated album, GRAMMY.com revisits five essential songs that reflect the timeless artistry of Davido.

Davido exploded onto the music scene with a clear focus and clearer intentions — and unwavering confidence to boot. His debut album, Omo Baba Olowo (meaning "Son of a Rich Man" in Yoruba), became notable for his energetic sophomore single "Dami Duro," which translates to "Stop Me."

The fast-paced track effortlessly merges Yoruba and English lyrics, celebrating his success and hinting at his impending, unstoppable rise in the music industry. Recognized as a boastful party anthem, this song marked a defining moment for a young Davido, setting the tone for a long-spanning and prosperous career.

For many Nigerians, Davido's music has become an integral part of numerous celebrations and has served as the soundtrack for birthdays, anniversaries and weddings alike. His folksy, upbeat single "Aye," produced by TSpize and written by fellow Nigerian artist Victor Ngubor (Runtown), debuted in February 2014 — conveniently in time for Valentine's Day.

The love song features a youthful and enthusiastic Davido bragging about finding real love untainted by material items. "She no wan designer/ She no wan Ferrari/ She say na my love oh/ You belong to me/ And I belong to her oh," he sings on the chorus.

In 2014, "Aye" won Song of The Year at Nigeria's musical award celebration, The Headies. The award solidied Davido's music as a go-to soundtrack for life's most precious milestones, while further cementing his status as a cultural icon.

Davido's second studio album, A Good Time, birthed many popular songs such as "Risky" featuring Popcaan, "Assurance" and "If." However, none of those compared to the success of "Fall."

Originally released in 2017, the single was an immediate success, debuting at No. 3 on Billboard's World Digital Song Sales chart. It remained in the chart for 59 weeks, breaking the record for the longest-charting Nigerian pop song in Billboard history at the time; subsequently, the song helped elevate Davido's mainstream recognition. 

"Fall" saw another boost when it was included on the star's 2019 album, A Good Time, which reminded the world of his global prominence. And that would only continue to grow in the next decade.

A Better Time is another album that served fans and new listeners with numerous hits and iconic melodies. The project spawned the single-turned-political anthem "FEM," the sultry midtempo record "Jowo," and the cheeky rhythmic tune "Holy Ground" featuring Nicki Minaj. Yet, the song arguably most beloved by Davido's fans was the cheerful "La La," featuring fellow Nigerian singer CKay.

A hidden gem on A Better Time, "La La" incorporates makossa, an African rhythm popularized in the early 2000s; the track's dose of nostalgia helped it become a fan favorite, especially after the release of its playful music video. The collaboration also marked an exciting surprise for fans of both artists, as CKay had just delivered his own global smash with 2019's "Love Nwantiti." 

At the beginning of the track, Davido says, "This song feels so good," and that's exactly what it does for the listener. From the thumping bass to the playful lyrics and adlibs, "La La" makes you want to move — or in Davido and CKay's case, "Dance my makossa."

"Unavailable" 'Timeless' (2023)

Though Davido is no stranger to his music going viral, his single "Unavailable" generated a unique buzz, particularly on social media. Featuring South African producer/artist Musa Keys and later remixed by Atlanta rapper Latto, "Unavailable" has 1.4 million videos with its sound on TikTok as of press time. That's mostly thanks to a dance challenge that sparked from the song, which even received a special shout-out from Rihanna.

The song and album also earned the 32-year-old his first GRAMMY nods. Along with the song's nomination for Best African Music Performance, "FEEL" was up for Best Global Music Performance and Timeless was up for Best Global Music Album at the 2024 GRAMMYs.

While Davido has drawn inspiration from traditional Nigerian music since the beginning of his career, the Amapiano-tinged "UNAVAILABLE" was arguably the singer's most innovative take on his roots yet. As one of his biggest songs to date, it also proved that Davido is eager to continue pushing the boundaries of African music — and he's become a global star because of it.

A decade ago, Afrobeats was on the verge of global recognition. By 2015, the genre had grown beyond its West African roots, fueled by infectious club anthems, high-profile collaborations, and an evolving sound that blended local influences with global trends. 

That year proved to be a turning point. Nigerian music saw a surge in commercial success, with artists like Olamide, Burna Boy, Davido, and Wande Coal making major moves. 

Collaboration played a crucial role in the genre’s expansion. Remixes like "Woju" featuring Tiwa Savage and Davido resonated across Africa and beyond, while songs like Burna Boy's "Soke" and Davido's "Fans Mi” infused trap, dancehall, and pop into the sound. Burna Boy's sophomore album, On A Spaceship, laid the groundwork for his future global impact, tackling themes of resilience and identity that remain central to his work today. 

Then came Wizkid’s "Ojuelegba” remix with Drake and Skepta — an instant classic that catapulted Afrobeats even further onto the international stage. The song became a symbol of pride for Africans both at home and in the diaspora, influencing artists from Doja Cat to Sarkodie.

The momentum carried into the next decade. Wizkid's "Essence” with Tems " became a worldwide anthem in 2020, further cementing Afrobeats' global appeal. Burna Boy’s African Giant (2019) secured a nomination for Best World Music Album at the 2020 GRAMMYs and by 2023, the Recording Academy introduced the Best African Music Performance Category, with Tyla’s "Water" winning its inaugural award at the 2024 GRAMMYs.

From viral dance hits to groundbreaking collaborations, 2015 set the stage for Afrobeats’ global takeover. These 10 songs not only defined the era but continue to shape the genre a decade later.

"Bobo" — Olamide

By 2015, Olamide had solidified himself as one of Nigeria’s most consistent hitmakers, releasing his fifth studio album, Eyan Mayweather, in as many years. Leading the charge was "Bobo," an undeniable anthem with Olamide’s signature Yoruba-infused lyricism and Young Jonn’s infectious production. But beyond its chart success, Bobo introduced the “Shakiti Bobo” dance, a viral sensation that transcended borders, catching the attention of stars like Ciara, T-Pain, and Missy Elliott. Nearly a decade later, the song remains a staple at Nigerian clubs and parties.

"Ojuelegba" –  Wizkid (feat. Drake & Skepta)

Wizkid’s "Ojuelegba" — a tribute to the hustle and grind of Lagos — was already a standout from his 2014 album, Ayo. But in 2015, the remix featuring Drake and Skepta transformed it into a global phenomenon. Premiering on OVO Sound Radio, the track helped push Afrobeats further into the international eye, with its influence rippling across hip-hop and pop. "Ojuelegba" has since been sampled and interpolated by artists like Doja Cat and Sarkodie, marking it as a defining song of Afrobeats’ global rise.

"Soke" – Burna Boy

Long before Burna Boy became an international powerhouse, he was using his music to explore themes of resilience and social awareness. In Yoruba, sókè means "higher" or "louder," a fitting title for a song that urged Nigerians to raise their voices against societal struggles. A standout from his sophomore album On a Spaceship, "Soke" was a melodic yet politically charged anthem built on Fela Kuti-inspired instrumentation and Orbeat’s dynamic production. The track helped define Burna’s genre-blending style, laying the groundwork for the Afrofusion sound he would later take worldwide.

"Crazy" – Seyi Shay (feat. Wizkid)

After a stint in the UK girl group From Above (a band signed to Beyoncé's father, Matthew Knowles) Seyi Shay returned to Nigeria and quickly became a force in Afrobeats. "Crazy," a sultry collaboration with Wizkid, was a standout from her 2015 debut album, Seyi or Shay. Produced by Legendury Beatz, the track blended Afrobeats and R&B, showcasing both artists' smooth chemistry. With its playful yet seductive tone, "Crazy" was one of the era’s definitive collaborations.

"My Darlin’" – Tiwa Savage

Tiwa Savage’s ability to fuse R&B with Afrobeats made her one of the genre’s most influential artists. "My Darlin’," produced by Don Jazzy and BabyFresh, became a sentimental favorite, often played at weddings and celebrations. With its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics, the track showcased Tiwa’s signature vocal versatility and cemented her status as a leading voice in contemporary Afrobeats.

"Ashimapeyin" – Wande Coal

Wande Coal, often referred to as Nigeria's "Black Diamond," made a triumphant return in 2015 with "Ashimapeyin," a standout from his long-awaited album Wanted. The project featured collaborations with heavyweights like Burna Boy, Wizkid, 2Baba, Falz and AKA. Produced by Sarz, the track was a high-energy anthem that reaffirmed Wande Coal’s influence on the genre. Its impact continues today having been sampled by rising stars like Fireboy DML in "wande’s bop”(2024). 

"Soldier" – Falz (feat. Simi)

Falz and Simi’s "Soldier" was a genre-blending gem featuring Simi crooning over Falz’s witty and humorous pidgin rap, mixing Afrobeats, highlife, and storytelling. The track, from Falz’s 2015 album Stories That Touch, gained even more popularity thanks to its 14-minute music video directed by Clarence Peters, which played like a short film. A humorous yet heartfelt tale of an unlikely romance between a soldier and a woman unimpressed by his bravado, "Soldier" remains one of the most memorable duets of the era.

"Fans Mi" – Davido (feat. Meek Mill)

Davido’s "Fans Mi" was a landmark moment for Afrobeats’ international expansion. Featuring Philadelphia rapper Meek Mill, the song bridged the gap between Afrobeats and American hip-hop, with a beat produced by Nigerian hitmaker Shizzi. Lyrically, "Fans Mi" was a flex of Davido’s rise from humble beginnings to global stardom, while Meek’s verse added a trap influence that would become more common in Afrobeats crossovers.

"Gift" – Iyanya (feat. Don Jazzy)

Following the massive success of "Kukere," Iyanya continued his run of dancefloor-ready hits with "Gift," a collaboration with Afrobeats powerhouse, Don Jazzy. Taken from his 2015 album Applaudise, the track blended high-energy Afrobeats rhythms with Iyanya’s smooth delivery. While "Gift" may not have been his most defining hit, it reinforced his ability to craft infectious anthems.

"Woju" (Remix) – Kizz Daniel (feat. Davido, Tiwa Savage)

Kizz Daniel (then known as Kiss Daniel) burst onto the scene with "Woju," a feel-good anthem that quickly became one of Afrobeats hits of 2014. However, the remix — featuring Afrobeats superstars Tiwa Savage and Davido — took it to new heights in 2015. Produced by DJ Coublon, the track dominated airwaves, amassed over 40 million YouTube views, and was hailed as one of the year’s most defining Afrobeats records, stamping Kizz Daniel’s status as a rising star.