For a breath of fresh air in Nigerian Hip Hop look no further than the streets of Lagos where relative newcomer Me’Mo is making quite an impression on the urban music scene.
Obsessed with comic books, action figures, web surfing, and video games, Me’Mo would be classified as a "Nerd" and social “outcast”. But his love for hip-hop, fashion and pornstars disqualify him of being such a stereotype
In an era isolated with undeniable talented MCs all vying for the coveted status of “next big thing”, the story of 24-year old Lagos City native is a refreshing exception to the quick route for fame and success. The first artist from Africa to feature on Atlanta's leading mixtape "Hot1rap", Me'Mo made himself notable through an un-usual style of flow and approach to the game, which lead to him being nominated on the last edition for the best unsigned artist on MySpace which he was ranked 8th in the world for the track “Fantasy Man Ft Fedarro”after 120 artist was shortlisted, and was also on the UK podcast and got a couple spins in Gill’s radio show.
Born in the 80’s Rapper/Gamer/Super-Hero/Songwriter/GFX/Software Engineering student, started his rap career at age 15 with a group of four band members, they were known as the “Southboi’s” back in high school. But after graduation year the group was dissolved with individuals going solo as a result brought about the discovery of this super-talented human.
After the breakup of the group Me’Mo and childhood friend “Seyi “A.K.A“ Olaleye” Formed a new team “Flyboy Club” which has since been a movement 6years after it was formed.
The Gidi born native recorded his first ever LP “Hard Life “ In 2005 Under an indie label in Belgium “African Gold “ Which Later folded up due to mismanagement that lead to the album not being released. But with the taste and hunger to succeed Me’Mo never gave up on his rap ambitions,he strived and was motivated under the guidance of his Cousin “Tozer A.K.A Greatness TheCardiac” and with that Me’Mo Recorded his first mixtape “Street Hype” in 2006, and went on to record his 2nd mixtape “Tha Epidemic Vol-1” Produced By Smitty for Trackbangas Entertainment in 2008. Ever since then Me’Mo has been working with upcoming Artist and major producers in the industry, production credits includes “Trackbangas, “The ShahBros”, ” Seven”, Fittdz Carter For Nappyboy And Trap Ent”, “NGAGE Sites”, Freq Beatz “ , “Lil’Lyss” And “Rai C”.
Just over 3years ago, however, it seemed unlikely that the young rapper would ever get his chance to shine after a car accident left him in a coma for several days. Displaying his characteristic drive and focus, he awoke with a stronger sense of purpose than ever before. Refreshed and determined to make his mark on the music world, Me’Mo returned to the studio to record his defining project.
If his sudden rise from the urban scene is a shock to his haters, their doubts were cleared when Me'Mo dropped " My Boom Box (Mixtape)Hosted By UK's Own Dj Sole ", as well as a coveted guest feat on 19 year old CryptoniteBeatz And Dj Exclusive “Highly Connected Mixtape featuring the likes of E-40 and 40Cal, as well as a feat on Dj Unheard Songz compilation which had J.Cole, Wiz Khalifa, Kid Cudi And Big Sean on it.
Having already provided lyrics for some of Nigeria’s hottest underground MCs, the talented young artist is finally ready to introduce himself to the world through his most recent mixtape “Dark Empire (Rise Of Squaria)”an imaginary planet the kid calls his home . The release, which will feature his infamous street anthem ‘Awesome Ft Simon And The Good Bad And Ugly Ft Dj Humility and Bino’ alongside a diverse range of probable hit singles including thug love ballad “Take You Away Ft Nina” and club banger “ We Own The Night “ Which was also selected as the 3rd Miami theme song online. Radio-friendly yet retaining his gritty signature sound, this versatile and electrifying new release has the potential to catapult the young Nigerian onto the global Hip Hop radar.
His distinctive flow, which is rather reminiscent of Lupe Fiasco, has drawn many comparisons, although Me’Mo maintains that he would much rather be regarded as a talent in his own right no matter how flattering such comparisons may seem.
Influenced by the sounds of the Dirty South and futuristic squarian sounds but radiating awareness of his own African identity, Me’Mo has the sure fire recipe to integrate his Nigerian flavour into the international urban music scene.
But with all the work the 24 year old rapper has put in, Soulful, Energetic and his creative sense to making music Me'Mo is back in the booth recording his next project "The Music Experience" which is set to hit stores worldwide 11.11.11, Me'Mo’s lyrics touch on everything from his upbringing in Lagos State to the Corruption, Crime and hopelessness that affect his community. The mixtape encapsulates not just who Me'Mo is as a rapper, but who he is as an artist and a person.
Def the Future of Music... been Followin This kid From Loud....
ReplyDeleteLove the song...