Top 5: African women in hip hop

Kanyi Mavi

This talented artist is arguably the best lyricist in South Africa. The rapper from Cape Town is a proficient writer with an impeccable storytelling ability. Her finesse is characterised by formidable flow and rhymes in her mother tongue. If dope is a description to go by, it's an understatement.

Ashley

The Guinean rapper is a strong advocate of women's and girls’ rights. She raps against sexual abuse, discrimination and stereotypes of her sisters and defines herself as a progressivist and proud feminists.

Keko

The Ugandan rapper is a dexterous writer with excellent command over her cadence. Her music is heartfelt and equally entertaining. Keko’s contribution to Ugandan hip hop was solidified when she was featured on ‘Fallen Heroes’ with Don MC, Davis, SP Omugunjule and Mwamba Children's Choir.

Black Bird

Black Bird is the first female rapper in Zimbabwe to release an album. She is an impassioned writer with a flow that is reminiscent of the '90s hip hop greats. Her lyrics are simple yet captivating, and her delivery never disappoints.

Gigi Lamayne

Gigi Lamayne’s versatility has put her in a league of her own. She is a fervent writer with the ability to speak about social ills without holding back on the need to turn up. Her propensity to switch between content makes her a force to be reckoned with in Africa, and beyond.

Compiled by Carlos Ncube