By Benjamin Njoku

ABUJA, NIGERIA — Rising hip-hop artiste Awesome of Africa has released a deeply personal new single titled Back in Time, offering an emotional departure from the bravado often associated with the genre.

The Obudu-born lyricist uses the track to explore themes of loss, grief, and the longing for closure, delivering what he describes as “real-life music” rooted in personal experience.

Since making his debut in 2020 with the single Sugar, Awesome of Africa has steadily built a reputation for authentic storytelling. His previous projects, including the mixtape The Obudu Rapper and the EP Life Is Deep, have contributed to his growing profile within Nigeria’s music scene.

His latest release, Back in Time, stands out as one of his most heartfelt works yet, as he continues to work on an upcoming studio album.

The song serves as a tribute inspired by the tragic loss of his only brother, with the artiste using music as a medium to express grief that many struggle to articulate.

“I know he’s gone, but I can’t move on,” he said. “I wish I could go back in time so I could save him. I want my listeners to feel the truth in my lyrics and the realness in my sound.”

Despite describing his journey in the music industry as challenging, Awesome of Africa has remained determined. Like many independent artistes, he has faced obstacles including limited funding, low visibility, and the demands of a highly competitive industry.

Driven by his love for family, especially his daughter, and his ambition to succeed, the rapper continues to channel both pain and resilience into his music.

Back in Time reflects that balance—capturing the weight of personal loss while underscoring the determination propelling him toward greater heights.