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| Biography of Phyno and His Music Career |
Early Life and Background
Chibuzor Nelson Azubuike, professionally known as Phyno, was born on October 9, 1986, in Enugu State, Nigeria. Although he hails from Anambra State, Phyno grew up in Enugu, where his passion for music and the arts developed at an early age. He originally dreamed of becoming a pilot or doctor but was eventually drawn to music, especially rap and production.
Phyno studied Public Administration at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) in Enugu, where he began producing music and honing his unique style.
Musical Journey and Breakthrough
Phyno started his career as a music producer in 2003, working with several top Nigerian artists before venturing into performing. His big breakthrough came when he decided to rap primarily in Igbo language, blending it with English and Pidgin. This gave him a distinct identity and connected him deeply with fans across Nigeria.
In 2012, he began recording his debut album No Guts No Glory, which was released in 2014. The project produced hit singles such as “Ghost Mode” featuring Olamide, “Man of the Year”, and “Parcel”, all of which cemented him as one of Nigeria’s leading rappers.
Albums and Hit Songs
Phyno has consistently delivered chart-topping albums and singles. His discography includes:
Albums:
No Guts No Glory (2014)
The Playmaker (2016)
Deal With It (2019)
Something to Live For (2021)
Popular Songs:
Fada Fada ft. Olamide
Connect
Alobam
Obago
Highway (with DJ Kaywise)
Man of the Year
Collaborations and Influence
Phyno has collaborated with some of Africa’s biggest stars, including Olamide, Flavour, Wizkid, Davido, Timaya, Burna Boy, and Falz. His long-time partnership with Olamide, especially on joint tracks and stage performances, is celebrated as one of the most iconic duos in Nigerian music.
His decision to proudly rap in Igbo has also inspired younger artists to embrace indigenous languages, making him a cultural icon and voice for the eastern Nigerian music scene.
Awards and Achievements
Phyno has earned multiple awards and nominations, such as:
Headies Awards (Best Rap Single, Best Collabo)
Nigeria Entertainment Awards
City People Entertainment Awards
MTV Africa Music Awards (nominations)
Personal Life
Phyno is known to keep his personal life private. However, he is admired for his humility, business sense, and dedication to nurturing young talents in the Nigerian music industry.
Legacy and Impact
Phyno is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest indigenous rappers. By blending Igbo rap with Afrobeat, hip-hop, and highlife influences, he has built a legacy as both a trendsetter and cultural ambassador. His music continues to resonate across Africa and globally, positioning him as a true pioneer of indigenous rap.


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