Singer Hammerboi says Benin-language music is reaching global listeners

Afrobeats artiste Osasike Uwuigbe, popularly known as Hammerboi, says his Benin-language music is attracting listeners outside his home region and drawing attention to Edo culture. The singer said his choice to perform mainly in his native language was influenced by his affection for Benin culture and his wish to preserve and promote the language. He told Saturday Beats that the decision developed naturally rather than from a plan to pursue commercial success.

Hammerboi previously worked as a music producer. He said he began writing and producing songs in childhood, including material for his church choir, before deciding to create music specifically for Benin people. He said the response to his work had shown him that language did not necessarily prevent audiences from connecting with a song.

Listeners could respond to emotion, melody and energy even when they did not understand the words, he said. The artiste said his audience now extended beyond Edo State, with listeners from other parts of Nigeria and from several countries. He said cities outside his region often appeared among his most active audiences.

According to Hammerboi, some foreign listeners have become curious about Edo culture after discovering his music. He said fans from French-speaking countries sometimes ask for translations of songs and videos. He hopes the music will encourage younger people to embrace indigenous languages.

Hammerboi said languages should be celebrated rather than hidden, while adding that he remains open to using other languages when required by his creativity. His recent album includes English and other languages, but he said his native language would remain central to his music.