In a recent sit-down with Echoo Room, Nigerian rapper Erigga stirred conversation by declaring Phyno as the greatest Nigerian rapper of all time.
Erigga, known for his raw lyrics and street-conscious music, praised Phyno for maintaining his influence and staying relevant across different eras of Nigerian hip-hop.
Reflecting on their recent collaboration, Erigga noted that working with Phyno on the track Up Iweka had been a long time coming. “I have always wanted to do a song with Phyno. We have always had that conversation,” he said. “Whenever I told him of my intention, he would always say it was left to me.”
Explaining the challenges of selecting features for his projects, Erigga emphasized his intentional approach to collaborations. “When I want to make an album, it is always a problem trying to look out for features because I am not that guy that just puts everybody on a song,” he explained.
“Sometimes, the collaboration won’t come out when the energies don’t match.” He continued by highlighting what sets Phyno apart: “I look at Phyno as someone who has been in the game and lived through different times. He is the GOAT. Phyno is the greatest Nigerian rapper because he lived those times, and he is still relevant.”
As conversations around the evolution of Nigerian rap continue to grow, another influential voice in the music scene, rapper and activist Falz, has shed light on his own creative journey.
Known for his fearless social commentary, Falz shared his motivations for infusing activism into his music.
“I don’t think I can separate my environment from my music,” he said. “The things I see, the things people go through—it all becomes part of what I create. That’s what gives my music life and purpose.”
Falz, whose full name is Folarin Falana, has carved a niche for himself in the Nigerian music industry since he debuted in 2009.
Unlike many of his peers who often steer clear of politics and controversial topics, Falz has been vocal about societal injustices and governance failures.
Songs like This is Nigeria and Talk have earned him both acclaim and criticism, but his commitment to activism through music remains unwavering.
“If I don’t talk about what’s wrong, then who will?” he asked. “That silence allows the problems to grow.”
In a 2024 interview, Falz revealed that his decision to use music as a tool for change was heavily influenced by Nigerian music legends and groups.
“I grew up listening to Fela Kuti, Plantashun Boiz, and Trybesmen,” he shared. “They inspired me to speak through music. Fela especially—he never held back. That’s what I aim to do: to speak truth, no matter the cost.”
As artists like Erigga and Falz continue to push boundaries, their contributions reflect not just talent, but a deep connection to the people and the times.
