Renowned Ghanaian rapper, M.anifest honors the genre’s legendary characters in his most recent freestyle, “Hip Hop at 50,” in a moving ode to the genre’s rich history. M.anifest skillfully weaves his lyrics together to make an ode to a genre he substantially influenced, drawing inspiration from artists such as the legendary 2pac and Nas, The Notorious B.I.G, The Fugees, LL Cool J, and the Wu-Tang Clan.
M.anifest, often referred to as “the god MC” by his dedicated fan base, demonstrates his lyrical prowess by crafting a fitting tribute to Hip Hop’s enduring legacy, now celebrating half a century of influence. He delves into the genre’s origins on Sedgwick Avenue and its global impact, including its role in inspiring genres like Hip Life in Ghana. Through his lived experiences, M.anifest offers a comprehensive view of Hip Hop, tipping his hat to classics like Obrafour’s “Pae Mu Ka” and legendary albums such as Kanye West’s “College Dropout” and Jay-Z’s “The Blueprint.”
The freestyle also acknowledges contemporary torchbearers like J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, A-Reece, Black Sherif, and Sampa The Great. Their inclusion underscores that Hip Hop remains a vibrant, influential force in today’s music landscape, firmly held within capable hands.
Beyond the music, M.anifest has actively engaged in academia, sharing insights on Hip Hop’s evolution from an African perspective. His participation at Howard University and an appearance at Hennessy’s celebration of Nas, one of Hip Hop’s legends, in New York in July 2023, further solidify his role as a thoughtful ambassador of the genre.
Listen below.
