Famed Nigerian rapper Phyno has explained his choice to rap in Igbo, despite starting his career in English. Speaking on the “In My Opinion” podcast, he shared that his switch to Igbo was a deliberate move to bring a unique sound to global audiences.
Reflecting on his journey, Phyno noted that while he was influenced by iconic English-speaking rappers like Busta Rhymes and Jay-Z, he eventually realized he wanted to stand out. He asked himself, “What can I sell to the world that they don’t already have?” Deciding to represent his heritage, he embraced rapping in Igbo to offer something distinct.
Phyno also shared that his Igbo-speaking upbringing and highlife influences play a crucial role in his music. His shift to wearing Igbo traditional attire underscores his commitment to showcasing his culture on the world stage.