Phyno also admitted that he began his career rapping in English but later switched to Igbo language
By Kehinde Okeowo
Popular Nigerian rapper, Chibuzor Nelson Azubuike, better known as Phyno, has explained why he raps in Igbo dialect.
Speaking while featuring in the latest episode of the ‘In My Opinion’ podcast, the ‘I am not’ crooner said he began his career rapping in English but later switched to Igbo.
Phyno added that he made the change because he wanted to offer something unique to the Western world.
He went on to state that his upbringing also influenced his decision to rap in Igbo language, adding that he also dons Igbo traditional attire when singing.
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Phyno said, “Growing up, I listened to emcees that were very lyrical like the Busta Rhymes, the Jay-Zs, the 2Pacs, the Biggies and the rest. I listened to everything. I had that Western influence in my music but then at some point in my life when I was still trying to find myself, I was rapping in English, too.
“But when I got to a point where I had to make a career out of this, I asked myself a simple question, ‘What am I going to sell to the world? If I go to the UK, will I sell English to them? They own English language.’ If I go to America right now, I am selling Igbo to them. That’s what it’s. So you have to sell something that they don’t have. I can’t come to your country and sell what you already have. But if I sell what you don’t have, it will be unique.
“I grew up in a highlife influenced neighbourhood. I make sure that I incorporate all the influences into my music and art. I have started wearing the Igbo traditional attire because I have to look different, I have to represent my culture.”
