9 Female rappers who dominated the Nigerian hip-hop scene

In the dynamic landscape of Nigerian hip hop, female rappers have consistently proven themselves as formidable forces, carving out their own space and leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

From pioneering acts who shattered stereotypes to contemporary trailblazers pushing boundaries, these women have not only showcased exceptional lyrical prowess but have also challenged societal norms and inspired generations. In this article, we delve into the top nine female rappers who have not only dominated but redefined the Nigerian hip-hop scene with their undeniable talent and unwavering determination.

1. Eva Alordiah

Elohor Eva Alordiah, popularly known as Eva Alordiah, is celebrated as Nigeria's premier female rapper, boasting a multifaceted career as a rapper, makeup artist, actress, YouTube vlogger, and fashion icon. Introduced to rap at the age of 10 through the influence of Eminem, Eva's passion for words and rhyming led her to pursue a career in hip hop. Her debut single I Dey Play in 2009 marked the beginning of a journey that would establish her as the most consistent and complete female rapper in Nigeria.

Over the years, Eva has released acclaimed projects such as the Gigo and Eva EPs, as well as her debut album 1960 in 2016, featuring collaborations with industry heavyweights like Femi Kuti, Olamide, and Phyno. Noteworthy singles like Deaf propelled her to critical acclaim and earned her nominations and awards, including the YEM Award for Best Rap Single. Eva's impact extends beyond music, as she has organized rap competitions for female artists, advocating for gender equality in the industry. With her enduring relevance, accolades, and endorsement deals, Eva Alordiah has solidified her status as the epitome of female rap in Nigeria and is rightfully hailed as the greatest female rapper the country has ever produced.

2.  Sasha P

Talented rapper, Anthonia Yetunde Alabi, popularly known as Sasha P, is one household name that will be remembered for generations for her indelible influence in the Nigerian hip-hop scene. She acquired the moniker of first lady of Nigerian hip-hop and was the first Naija rapper to achieve international recognition when few were around the scene. Her fame has continued to be a blueprint.

Her journey into the hip-hop industry began with musical collaborations before she got signed to eLDee's Trybe Records. She moved on to Storms Record, where she rose to prominence in 2001 with the successful release of her debut album, First Lady. Among many awards in her bag, Shasha won the Best Female Artist award at the Women in Entertainment Awards U.K. for her first single, Adara. She became the first Nigerian female artist to win the Best Female Award at MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA) 2015. Besides Adara, she released Gidi Babe on her birthday in 2009. In 2012, she debuted with an E.P. named Bad Girl P before stepping away from music to focus on her business.

3. Blaise

Funke Martin Luther, also known by her stage name Blaise, emerged onto the rap scene as early as the 1990s with the group Da Trybe. Her talents quickly became evident, and she made her mark with a feature on the hit single Oya in 2002. Blaise's skill and dedication propelled her to notable platforms such as the 2008 MTV Base/Zain Advance Warning Rap Competition, the 2009 Hennessy Nigerian Artistry Competition, and the BET Cypher in 2011.

Throughout her career, Blaise collaborated with industry heavyweights, lending her distinctive voice and style to hit singles like DJ Jimmy Jatt's Too Much remix, Dipp's Good Girls remix, Da Suspekt's I No Send You remix, and MI's Blaze remix. Her versatility and undeniable talent solidified her status as a respected figure in Nigerian hip-hop, garnering recognition and admiration from fans and peers alike.

4. Weird MC

Nigerian-British rapper, Adesola Idowu, better known as Weird MC, made her musical debut in 1996 with the release of her first single Allen Avenue. The following year, she unveiled her debut album Simply Weird, which earned her the prestigious title of Best Hip Hop Album at the AMEN Awards.

In 2006, Weird MC returned with her second album titled After the Storm, which featured the chart-topping hit Ijoya, produced by Don Jazzy and JJC. This album received critical acclaim and secured the award for Best Pop Album at the 2007 Headies. Additionally, Weird MC was honoured with the Artist of the Year award at the same ceremony.

Ijoya became a sensation in 2006, winning the Channel O Music Video Award for Best Special Effect. Further solidifying her status as a musical powerhouse, Weird MC collaborated with P-Square on the widely successful Busy Body Remix. Despite her hiatus from releasing new music, Weird MC made a comeback with several hit tracks between 2013 and 2015, including Iwaju Iwaju, Ijoya Remix, Oya Eh, and Carry Go, showcasing her enduring talent and relevance in the Nigerian music scene.

5. Bouqui

Bukola Folayan, also known as Bouqui, began her music career in the early 2000s with the group G-Vibes before pursuing a solo path. Her debut album BOUQUI set a record with fourteen tracks and four skits, including the hit single Get It Started which quickly rose to the top of music charts. The album received critical acclaim, earning Bouqui the prestigious AMEN Award for Best Female Act in 2007.

In 2013, she released her second album Redefinition, featuring the hit single MONILE and a collaboration with Grammy nominee Da T.r.u.t.h. Bouqui's impact on the Nigerian music scene continues, with her latest musical endeavour being the release of the music video for Demo featuring Angeloh in 2018.

6. Kel

Kelechi Ohia, popularly known as Kel, rose to fame as a Nigerian singer with hit singles like Waa Wa Alright, You Too Fine, and Turn By Turn, featuring Wizkid. Recognized as the country's best female rap MC, she gained widespread acclaim until encountering issues with her record company, Capital Hill Music, owned by renowned video director Clarence Peters.

Upon her departure from Capital Hill Music, Kel's once-thriving career faced a decline, and she struggled to reclaim her former star status. Her 2009 debut album, The Investment, featured collaborations with notable artists such as Wizkid, Illbliss, and Ice Prince, earning her the Best Female Artist Award at the MAMA awards. Despite initial success, Kel's journey in the music industry has been marked by challenges and a shift in fortunes.

7. Muna

Munachi Abii, born Munachi Gail Teresa Nwankwo, and known by her stage name Muna, is a multi-talented Nigerian artist who excels as a rapper, songwriter, pageant winner, television presenter, and model. Her rise to fame began in 2007 when she won the prestigious Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria pageant. In 2010, she made waves in the music industry with hit singles like I Feel Real and Killer Queen.

Muna's versatility as an artist is evident through her collaborations on popular tracks such as Waje's Inspired, DJ Jimmy Matt's Komije, and Banky W's Lagos Party Remix. She also showcased her rap skills on the BET Nigeria cyphers in 2011 and 2012 and served as a judge on the rap contest Nokia Don't Break The Beat alongside Mode 9 and DJ Jimmy Jatt. In 2016, Muna released her latest single I Choose You featuring Lamboginni, demonstrating her continued presence and influence in the Nigerian music scene.

8. Mo' Cheddah

Modupe-Oreoluwa Oyeyemi Ola, professionally known as Mo'cheddah, burst onto the Nigerian music scene at a young age with her promotional song If You Want Me, which quickly earned her a contract with Knighthouse Entertainment. In 2010, she made her mark with the release of her debut studio album, Franchise Celebrity, garnering accolades such as Best New Artist and Best Female Video at the MAMA and Channel O Awards. Two years later, in 2012, Mo'cheddah took a significant step by parting ways with Knighthouse to establish her own label, Cheddah Music.

Throughout her career, Mo'cheddah has delivered numerous hit singles, including Survive and Let Me Love You, produced by Mosa, as well as "Bad" featuring Olamide, and her timeless anthem Destinabamri with Phyno, solidifying her status as one of Nigeria's top female rappers.

9. Pryse 

Princess Esindu, widely known as Pryse, rose to prominence as a Nigerian female rapper under Chocolate City. During her time with the label, she released notable tracks and featured on the Indestructible album. After leaving Chocolate City, Pryse embarked on a solo career, showcasing her skills through acclaimed freestyles and guest verses on various tracks.

Notable collaborations include songs with Funbi, Koker, and Eva Alordiah. Pryse also appeared on platforms like the Hennessy Cypher Part 3 and DJ Jimmy Jatt's Jimmy Jump Off. She later established her record label, I.C.O.N Music, emphasizing her focus on international connections in the music industry.