Key Points:
- M.I Abaga says Eedris, Burna Boy, and VeryDarkMan share the same fearless energy.
- He recalls how Eedris inspired his rap journey with strong, conscious songs.
- M.I encourages young rappers to honour those who paved the way.
M.I Reflects on Rap Roots and Nigerian Icons
Popular Nigerian rapper M.I Abaga has sparked new conversations with his latest take on the country’s music scene.
Speaking on the Menism podcast, the respected artist opened up about his early rap inspiration. He also drew bold comparisons between Eedris Abdulkareem, Burna Boy, and controversial online activist VeryDarkMan.
According to M.I, all three figures have one thing in common — fearless activism. He described them as bold voices who speak their minds and aren’t afraid to challenge the system.
Eedris Had Rema’s Energy and Burna’s Boldness
M.I shared how his love for rap grew from listening to music he felt connected to. But what truly pushed him was seeing Nigerian rappers doing great things.
He said, “When I was young, I used to draw cartoons. But there was no animation studio in Nigeria, so I gave up that dream. But rap was different.”
He praised early pioneers like Eldee The Don and Ruggedman. But it was Eedris Abdulkareem who stood out the most to him.
“When you see Rema now, that was the energy Eedris had back in the day,” M.I explained. “He was the Burna Boy of that time.”
Comparing Icons: Burna, Eedris, and VDM
M.I noted that Eedris didn’t just make music for fun. His songs tackled real issues and connected deeply with people.
He said, “Eedris was more like Burna and VDM. He would just say something, put it out, and the whole country would be singing it.”
One of Eedris’ most popular songs was Mr Lecturer, a bold track that addressed corruption and abuse of power in Nigerian universities.
M.I used the moment to advise young musicians to honour those who came before them.
“I don’t like it when people say no one paved the way for them,” he said firmly. “Because these are the people that inspired us.”
