Nigerian musician Phyno opens up about his decision to rap in Igbo language
In a recent episode of the ‘In My Opinion’ podcast, Phyno, a popular Nigerian musician, revealed that he started rapping in Igbo to bring something new and unique to the global music scene.
When Phyno first started his career, he was rapping in English. However, he soon decided to make a change.
Phyno credits his upbringing for influencing his decision to rap in Igbo. He drew inspiration from emcees known for their lyrical prowess, such as Busta Rhymes, Jay-Z, and 2Pac. He incorporated elements of their style into his own music, blending them with the highlife influences of his neighborhood.
As Phyno considered turning his passion into a career, he realized that he needed to stand out in a crowded global market. He asked himself, “What can I offer that others can’t?”
Phyno decided that the answer lay in his unique cultural heritage. He figured that if he were to perform in the UK or the US, he wouldn’t be offering anything new by rapping in English. But by rapping in Igbo, he could bring something fresh and authentic to the table.
To further emphasize his connection to his culture, Phyno has started wearing traditional Igbo attire and incorporating his cultural influences into his music and art.
