Hausa rap has long held a niche but powerful position in Nigeria’s musical landscape. In recent years, artists like DJ AB have not only pushed the boundaries of the genre but also opened the floodgates for mainstream attention. In this exclusive interview with DJ AB, one of Arewa’s most respected voices, we uncover his journey, insights into his latest album, key collaborations, and the dynamic pulse of Hausa rap culture today.
DJ AB, known off-stage as Haruna Abdullahi, has built a loyal fan base across Northern Nigeria and beyond. With over 3 million combined streams across platforms and features on major Nigerian radio stations like Cool FM Kano and Freedom Radio, he’s become a force to reckon with in the music industry.
The Album: A Soundtrack for the North
“This album is for the North, but also for everyone who understands struggle, love, and growth,” DJ AB told us during our sit-down in Kaduna.
Titled Arewa Vibes Vol. 1, the album is a 12-track journey weaving stories of community, ambition, heartbreak, and heritage. Tracks like “Zamani”, “Gari Ya Baci”, and “Ina Da Rai” show a maturing sound that blends afrobeat, trap, and traditional Hausa rhythms.
“My aim was to create music that resonates with both the youth in Kaduna and a listener in Lagos or even Accra,” he shared.
Notable producers like Masterkraft and budding Arewa talents like Mr. Trust and Kdream contributed to the album’s production, showcasing a collaborative spirit that’s deeply rooted in DJ AB’s approach.
Case Study: Arewa Music Uprising in Kaduna
A 2023 survey conducted by AREWA Media Trends revealed that over 68% of youth aged 15–30 in Northern Nigeria now consume local Hausa hip-hop content weekly. This reflects a massive shift from five years ago, when that number stood at just 32%.
DJ AB’s popularity has played a pivotal role in this movement. Local Kaduna DJ, Muktar Bello (DJ MK), told us:
“Before, people wanted only Davido or Wizkid at parties. Now, you’ll see the crowd go crazy when ‘Yi Rawa’ by DJ AB comes on.”
Collabs: Bridging Regions and Genres
Dj Ab together with Burna Boy
In this album, DJ AB collaborates with both Arewa stars and Southern Nigerian artists, including:
Blaqbonez – On the track “North Meets West”, a playful yet fierce exchange of lyrical fire.
Madinah – A soulful female vocalist from Kano who lends vocals to “Kowa Da Iyayensa”.
Zayn Africa – Longtime friend and fellow Hausa rapper.
These collaborations are more than strategic; they signify the merging of regions, cultures, and languages—something Nigerian music has always done best.
“Working with artists outside the North breaks the stereotype that Hausa rap is too localized,” said DJ AB.
Actionable Tips for Upcoming Hausa Rappers
For young musicians trying to break through in the Hausa rap scene, DJ AB offers the following advice:
1. Stay Authentic
“Don’t try to sound like Lagos artists. Represent your reality.”
2. Use Social Media Strategically
DJ AB’s TikTok challenges and Instagram Live freestyles helped boost his visibility.
3. Collaborate with Visual Artists
Music videos matter. DJ AB’s visuals directed by Arewa-based creatives like Yusuf Gambo have racked up over 500,000 views.
4. Understand Music Distribution
Platforms like Audiomack, Boomplay, and HausaSong.com now offer monetization. Use them.
The Cultural Pulse: Hausa Rap as a Movement
Beyond entertainment, Hausa rap has become a vehicle for social commentary. Songs like “Gari Ya Baci” talk about insecurity in Northern Nigeria, while “Zamani” reflects on generational change.
According to cultural anthropologist Dr. Fatima Lawal from Ahmadu Bello University:
“Hausa rap is the modern-day griot tradition—artists telling the story of the people through rhyme.”
Real-Life Impact: The Gombe School Project
Inspired by DJ AB’s song “Ilmi Shine Gata”, a group of youth in Gombe started a literacy initiative in 2024. They raised over ₦1.5 million through community crowdfunding and launched a mobile library serving over 300 students.
“Music inspired us to make a difference,” says project leader, Maryam Umar. “DJ AB showed us we could use our voice for change.”
While it started in the North, its reach is now national and even international, especially among the Hausa diaspora.
Where can I listen to DJ AB’s new album?
It’s available on Boomplay, Audiomack, Spotify, and HausaSong.com.
How is Hausa rap different from other Nigerian rap styles?
It uses local proverbs, traditional rhythms, and community-focused themes more heavily.
Conclusion: DJ AB Is Just Getting Started
DJ AB’s journey reflects not just personal growth but the evolution of an entire culture. Through intentional collaborations, community-conscious lyrics, and a genuine passion for storytelling, he’s positioned Hausa rap on the national radar.
“This is just volume one,” he says with a smile. “Arewa has more stories to tell.”
As Nigerian music continues to evolve, artists like DJ AB are ensuring no voice is left behind.
Call to Action
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This post is part of our #ArewaVoices series — spotlighting talents redefining Northern Nigeria’s music and culture.
Author | HausaSong
HausaSong is your trusted source for Hausa music, entertainment news, and artist stories. We’re passionate about promoting Hausa culture and connecting artists to fans worldwide.
