5 Rising African Queens Redefining Hip-Hop

These emerging female artists are breaking down barriers and reshaping Hip-hop with their distinct styles and compelling narratives. From SGawD’s fearless delivery and genre-blending soundscapes to SixSaidIt’s witty and socially conscious bars, Br3nya’s infectious fusion of UK rap with Ghanaian influences, Lifesize Teddy’s experimental approach within Nigeria’s vibrant scene, and Tkay Maidza’s dynamic, genre-defying artistry — each of these talents brings a fresh and innovative voice, pushing the boundaries of what African Hip-hop can be.

SGawD

SGawD has carved out a distinct voice in the Nigerian hip-hop scene, pushing against the grain with her fearless delivery and genre-bending sound. She began her professional journey in 2019, leaving behind a career in law to fully embrace music. She eventually made waves with her raw lyricism and experimental approach. SGawD’s latest project, “Tha GaWD – Side A,” reflects her exploration of various genres, blending rap, house, electronica, and Afropop into a unique sonic tapestry. Fuelled by a passion to display her versatile artistry, she seamlessly blends rap intensity with soulful melodies—a dynamic mix that continues to captivate her expanding fan base. Her music often delves into themes of empowerment, self-assertion, and authenticity, capturing her journey as a bold voice from Nigeria’s South-South region, challenging traditional notions of what a female artist can achieve in a male-dominated industry.

SixSaidIt

SixSaidIt is another force emerging from the African rap scene, captivating listeners with her witty bars and fearless self-expression. Based in Lagos but with a global sound, she merges traditional hip-hop with elements of afrobeats, giving her music a distinct, refreshing edge. SixSaidIt uses her platform not just for music but to amplify conversations about women’s roles in hip-hop, creating space for more voices like hers. Her energetic stage presence and impactful lyricism continue to earn her a growing fanbase, setting her apart as a rising star to watch in the African hip-hop community.

Tkay Maidza (Zimbabwe)

Tkay Maidza is an electrifying force in the global hip-hop and alternative pop scene. Hailing from Zimbabwe but raised in Australia, her multicultural background heavily influences her sound, which melds rap with punk, house, and R&B elements. Tkay’s dynamic flow and genre-bending approach first made waves with her 2014 breakout hit “Brontosaurus,” showcasing her energetic delivery and innovative production. Her subsequent projects, including the critically acclaimed “Last Year Was Weird” series, highlight her versatility and fearless creativity. Tkay’s music often explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and identity, which makes her a compelling voice in the industry as she continues to redefine the possibilities of hip-hop through her distinct artistic lens.

Br3nya (Ghanian)

Br3nya, a Ghanaian-born, London-raised rapper, is a vibrant voice in the UK’s new wave of female Hip-hop artists. Her debut single, “Good Food,” instantly grabbed attention with its catchy bars and playful, confident delivery, positioning her as a rising star in the scene. Br3nya’s style fuses her African heritage with UK grime and rap influences, creating a unique sound that resonates across diverse audiences. Her music often celebrates her roots while pushing boundaries with slick wordplay and infectious beats. Drawing inspiration from icons like Nicki Minaj and the vibrant energy of Hiplife, she’s known for her energetic performances and clever lyricism that navigate themes of empowerment, femininity, and cultural pride. Br3nya’s growing success is a testament to her ability to bridge cultural gaps, making her a key figure to watch in the expanding African diaspora music scene.

Lifesize Teddy (Nigeria)

Lifesize Teddy, signed to Mavin Records, is poised to shake up the Nigerian rap scene with her bold, genre-defying sound. Her debut single “Hypnotic” is a testament to her lyrical prowess. It combines fierce rap with a melodic flow that hints at her versatility. With a fearless approach to addressing societal issues and a vibrant stage persona, Lifesize Teddy is carving a niche for herself, blending influences from trap, afrobeats, and hip-hop to create a sound that feels both familiar and groundbreaking. Her journey is just beginning, but she’s already making her mark as an exciting new voice in Nigerian music.