Summary

A variant of hip-hop music that infuses Igbo tradition into hip-hop.

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HistoryIgbo rap is a subgenre/ regional variation of Nigerian hip-hop music that emerged in Nigeria's southeastern region and has grown in popularity since 2000. The primary influences are Igbo traditional music and African American music. It can be mixed with other derivative styles such as highlife, R&B, afro-soul, and obvious Igbo traditional instruments like the Igba, Udu, Ogene, and Ichaka. The lyrics are usually delivered in Igbo language and occasionally blended with pidgin English. Notable pioneers of this genre are the likes of Mr. Raw, Slowdog, and MC Loph, and recently, acts like Phyno, Zoro, Jeriq, Ugoccie, Tidinz, Ifex G, Nuno, and Daisy Firecracker are considered top Igbo rappers.
Elements 
Form and Style

Igbo rap combines traditional Igbo elements with modern rap. Characterized by lyrical prowess, rhythmic flow in the Mother tongue. it can also be combined with highlife, R&B and afro-soul.

Singing Style

In Igbo rap, the singing style involves skillful wordplay layered atop hip-hop beats in the Igbo language. Lyrics may also incorporate Pidgin English and occasionally English for added linguistic versatility.

Theme

In Igbo rap, lyrics consistently delve into themes of street life, the everyday challenges faced by the youth, love, Igbo culture, its people, and various social issues.

Culture

Igbo rap draws heavily on Igbo cultural elements, infusing traditional values, language, and experiences into its lyrical content and beats.

Timbre

The timbre in Igbo rap is typically characterized by a diverse and dynamic range. It blends the rhythmic elements of traditional Igbo music with the modern, energetic tones of hip-hop.

Arrangement