Boasting of an illustrious career spanning a decade since his debut and widely regarded as a Maestro in the Nigerian entertainment scene, Phyno is set to take centre stage once again with the release of his latest single “Time of our Lives” featuring Brighton-born UK rap star, Arrdee.
On “Time of My Life” Phyno reaffirms his status as an artiste who is ardent on exporting his culture through music, as he blends his native Southern Nigeria dialect with English, thereby paying obeisance to his Igbo roots. With Ardee delivering an impeccable flow, the track exudes braggadocio, celebrating confidence and lyrical mastery.
Arrdee, known for his rapid rise in the UK rap circuit, adds an electrifying compliment to the song, which sees him attempt to throw in sprinkles of bars in Igbo language. The collaboration showcased the duo’s seamless synergy, making “Time of Our Life” a standout record of empowerment, and confidence, and making it a perfect single in the build-up to the release of Phyno’s forthcoming fifth studio album.
Phyno, born Chibuzor Nelson Azubike, is a Nigerian-born Rapper, Songwriter and CEO of the indigenous music imprint, Penthauze Music. Influenced by rap icons like 2Pac and The Notorious B.I.G and hometown heroes like Mr RAW and MC Loph, Phyno admired their raw, authentic delivery and aspired to bring that same energy to his music.
Phyno began his musical journey in 2010 during a period when Nigerian rap music began flourishing. His first introduction to the Nigerian Mainstream came through the monstrous classic record ‘Anam Achi Kwanu’ where he was featured by the veteran rapper Illbliss. He has also collaborated with other industry heavyweights such as Naeto C, M.I Abaga, Flavour, Timaya, and many others, setting the tone for his musical trajectory. Despite early scepticism from purists, Phyno’s blending of rap and Indigenous sounds was revolutionary, leading to the successful crossover of Indigenous rap into mainstream Nigerian music.
His breakthrough single, “Ghost Mode” featuring Olamide in 2012, cemented his position as one of the leading shapers of the modern Nigerian rap music culture. His debut album, ‘No Guts, No Glory’ (2014), fused brash, confident rap with more personal and communal themes, further establishing him as a formidable force in African music. Songs like “Fada Fada” and albums like ‘The Playmaker’ and ‘Deal With It’ further demonstrated his versatility, embracing both rap and Highlife influences.
With over a decade and counting in the game, Phyno now sets his gaze on global acclaim, seeking to even push more boundaries with his talent and ability to merge genres while remaining true to his roots. “Time of Our Lives” begins Phyno’s journey to becoming an enduring influence on the global music landscape.
Source: The Nation
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