DJ AB

Haruna Abdullahi, professionally known as DJ AB, is a Nigerian rapper, singer, songwriter, music producer, and performing artist whose work has played a defining role in shaping contemporary Northern Nigerian hip-hop. Widely celebrated by fans as “The King in the North,” DJ AB is known for his fluid blend of Hausa and English, a style that bridges regional identity with mainstream appeal and positions him as one of the most influential voices to emerge from Kaduna State.

Born on 30 December 1993 in Kaduna State, Nigeria, DJ AB’s early life was shaped by both academic discipline and creative curiosity. He completed his JSCE and SSCE at Federal Government College, Kaduna, an environment that exposed him to diverse cultural influences. Alongside his growing passion for music, he pursued higher education and is currently studying B.Sc. Quantity Surveying at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, reflecting a balance between formal education and artistic ambition.

DJ AB officially began his music journey in 2011 as part of the collective Yaran North Side, a group that helped nurture his early sound and lyrical confidence. During this period, he developed a reputation for sharp storytelling, regional pride, and an ability to articulate the lived realities of Northern Nigerian youth. His early releases gradually gained traction within the Arewa music scene, laying the groundwork for a breakthrough moment.

That turning point arrived in 2020 with the release of “Da So Samu Ne,” a song that resonated deeply with audiences and earned him widespread artistic recognition across Nigeria. The track marked a shift from regional popularity to national visibility, showcasing his ability to fuse emotional vulnerability with street-conscious lyricism. Following this success, DJ AB’s catalogue expanded with notable songs such as “Su Baba Ne,” “YAR Boko,” and “Babara,” further cementing his place within the evolving landscape of Nigerian hip-hop.

In 2021, DJ AB partnered with emPawa Africa, the talent incubator founded by Mr Eazi, a move that significantly amplified his reach and professional growth. Through this collaboration, he gained access to wider audiences, industry mentorship, and international recognition, while remaining firmly rooted in his Northern identity. He has since collaborated with artists such as Mr Eazi and Yung6ix, reinforcing his versatility and cross-regional appeal.

Beyond commercial success, DJ AB is recognised for representing Northern Nigerian culture with pride and nuance. His music often reflects themes of ambition, resilience, community, and self-belief, delivered through a sound that feels both local and globally informed. This cultural impact has earned him multiple nominations, including Best Kannywood Hip-Hop Artist of the Year, Arewa Best Rap Artiste of the Year, Arewa Artiste of the Year (Male), and Arewa Best Rap Album of the Year at various regional award platforms.

As DJ AB continues to evolve, his journey stands as a testament to the power of regional voices in shaping national narratives. Rooted in Kaduna yet resonating far beyond it, he remains a central figure in the story of modern Northern Nigerian music.

Sources:

• Afrika Boku Talent Org

• emPawa Africa profiles

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