Nigerian artist Crown Uzama, popularly known as Shallipopi, has opened up about his shift from rap to Amapiano, stating that the latter genre is far more profitable. In a candid interview on the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, the ‘Cast’ crooner revealed that while his heart remains with rap, financial reality forced him to embrace Amapiano.
Shallipopi disclosed that he started as a dedicated rapper, even calling himself a ‘trap star,’ but the Nigerian music market’s response to rap made it tough to earn a living. He admitted, “It is Amapiano that bring food to the table, so we will do it. I will drag it with them.” The singer emphasized that rap was his first love, but the orientation and lack of support from local fans pushed him toward the more lucrative Amapiano sound.
When asked about his decision to turn down the Headies award for Best Rap Song last year—won by his track ‘Cast’—Shallipopi explained that he felt pigeonholed. He argued that the award organizers should have created separate categories for singing and rap, rather than forcing him into one box. This move, he says, was a statement against being labeled solely as a rapper when his artistry spans both styles.
Shallipopi’s remarks have sparked conversations about the financial viability of different genres in Nigeria’s music industry. With Amapiano dominating airwaves and streaming platforms, many artists are reconsidering their musical directions to align with market demands. The singer’s candidness highlights the tough choices musicians face between staying true to their roots and chasing commercial success.