Afrikan Boy is a Nigerian-born, UK-based MC and rapper born in 1989, also known as Olushola Ajose. He grows up in London and works across grime, hip-hop and Afrobeat. His writing is known for combining humour with criticism of political subjects, especially immigration and visa problems, drawing on his own life and family experiences. His approach is also shaped by an emphasis on individuality and on speaking publicly about issues that matter to him.

Background and style

Afrikan Boy begins making music at an early age. He cites a wide range of influences, including Fela, Style Plus, Wiley, Dizzee Rascal, M.I.A., Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Shina Peters, King Sunny Ade and Wasiu. His MC style sits between grime, hip-hop and Afrobeat, and he uses it to address life behind the image of grime and violence that many people associate with the UK scene.

Collaborations and live work

He features on M.I.A.’s album Kala, alongside production from Diplo, Blackstar and Timbaland. While touring with M.I.A., he also opens shows for Björk and Prince.

Education

At the time described, Afrikan Boy is in his first year of university and studies for a bachelor’s degree in psychology.