Nigerian rapper and singer Shallipopi has explained his shift from rap to Amapiano, citing financial considerations.
Speaking on the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, the artist—known for the 2022 hit “Cast”—said that while rap was his “first love,” it did not provide sufficient income in the Nigerian market. “I have been rapping for a while. I am a trap star. They made me do Amapiano. It is Amapiano that brings food to the table, so we will do it,” he told the host.
Shallipopi emphasized that Amapiano, a South‑African dance music genre that has gained traction across Africa, offers greater commercial opportunities than rap in Nigeria. He pointed to the genre’s streaming numbers, club play and brand partnerships as key drivers of revenue.
The artist also addressed his decision to decline the Headies award for Best Rap Song, which his track “Cast” won last year. According to Shallipopi, the awards organizers attempted to categorise him solely as a rapper, ignoring his recent forays into singing and Amapiano production. He suggested that future ceremonies should recognise artists in both rap and singing categories to reflect their evolving musical styles.
Shallipopi’s comments highlight a broader trend among Nigerian musicians who are diversifying their sound to tap into more lucrative markets. As Amapiano continues to dominate playlists and live venues across the continent, several established rap artists have begun incorporating its rhythmic elements into their work.
Industry observers note that the shift may influence the next wave of Nigerian releases, with record labels and promoters likely to allocate more resources toward Amapiano projects. For fans, the development signals a blending of genres that could reshape the country’s musical landscape.
Shallipopi’s decision underscores the practical realities facing artists in Nigeria’s competitive entertainment sector, where commercial viability often dictates creative direction.
