Breaking Barriers: Meet rising Hausa female Hip-Hop Stars redefining northern Nigeria’s music scene

By Uzair Adam

Hausa female hip-hop artists in Northern Nigeria are making a significant impact in a genre long dominated by men, bringing fresh perspectives and redefining the music scene with their unique voices and powerful lyrics.

While male entertainers like DJ AB, Morell, Classiq, and Deezell have traditionally overshadowed the hip-hop industry, a new wave of talented women is beginning to change the narrative.

SolaceBase reports that in a region where cultural norms have historically limited female participation in the music industry, these women are breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes.

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Their presence in hip-hop not only showcases their artistic expression but also reflects a shift in societal attitudes toward gender roles.

Here is a list of female hip-hop artists in northern Nigeria:

1. Haddy Rappia

Hadiza Ya’u, better known by her stage name Haddy Rappia, is a Kaduna-born rapper who began her career at the young age of 17.

Specializing in the hip-hop genre known as ‘Gambara,’ which is similar to street rap or diss tracks, Haddy uses her music to address societal issues.

A graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, she is known for her modest fashion style and commanding stage presence.

With a goal to achieve stardom on par with international icons like Nicki Minaj, Haddy Rappia has released several hit songs, including “Tafi” and “Bosslady.”

2. Rayya Kwana Casa’in

Surayya Aminu, popularly known as Rayya, is an emerging talent in the Hausa hip-hop scene.

She gained fame through her role in the popular TV series “Kwana Casa’in” on Arewa 24, which inspired her stage name.

Born in Lagos and raised in Kaduna, Rayya is currently a student at Kano Polytechnic. Her track “YANZU NE,” featuring artists like Bash Neh Pah, Oga Abdul, Lilprince, Janx, and Mickey Deviper, was released on June 18, 2022, and has been well-received on Audiomack and other streaming platforms.

3. Princess Mufeeda

Princess Aisha Mufeedah, known professionally as Princess Mufeeda, is a rising star in Northern Nigeria’s hip-hop scene.

Born in Maiduguri and raised in Abuja, this 23-year-old rapper, who has a mixed heritage, began her music career at 16.

She was recognized as the Most Promising Arewa Female Hip-Hop Act by the CAFE in 2016/17.

Mufeeda’s music, predominantly performed in Hausa, includes popular tracks like “Sixteen,” “Hot Spot,” “Leg Chain,” “Ruwan Jiki,” “Ji Mana,” and “Baza Freestyle.”

4. Safiya Yusuf

Safiya Yusuf, also known as Safaa, is a recent addition to the roster of female hip-hop artists in Northern Nigeria.

Formerly an actress, Safiya transitioned to music allegedly after a leaked nude photo cost her a role, leading her to leave the film industry.

She made a remarkable impact with her debut single “Kwalelenka” and is regarded as one of the most fortunate artists to achieve recognition in such a short time.

At 18, she auditioned for the Arewa24 TV series “Kwana Casa’in.”

5. Lil Pee

Promise Bitrus Emmanuel, who goes by the stage name Lil Pee, is widely regarded as the Queen of Hausa Hip-Hop.

Born on January 8, 1997, in Taraba State, Lil Pee was inspired by notable Hausa hip-hop artists such as DJ Ab and Morell.

She began rapping at a young age and has since established herself as a prominent figure in the genre, blending her unique style with cultural influences.