Widgunz is one of the leading figures of the new generation of Rap Ivoire, a movement that’s shaking up hip-hop in Côte d’Ivoire by mixing local slang “noushi”, urban beats, and influences from Africa, France, and the US.
He first gained attention through collaborations with the legendary Ivorian group Kiff No Beat, pioneers who revolutionized the local scene and inspired a whole new wave of artists.
“Ivory Coast alone is full of remarkable cultural diversity and the musicians here show outstanding creativity.”
This early connection helped Widgunz steadily build his reputation among Ivorian listeners. That early link gave Widgunz the boost he needed to connect with the Ivorian crowd.
His big break came in 2017 with the viral hit “Monnaie” featuring Didi B-a track that really put him on the map. Then in 2018, he dropped his debut project Entre Parenthèses, setting the tone for his style: a smooth mix of real talk and street energy.
Since then, Widgunz has kept leveling up, dropping solid projects and collabs while staying true to where he comes from. In July 2024, he released his seventh project, the album Peugeot Music, proving he’s still pushing Rap Ivoire forward. This movement, driven by a new wave of talent, gives a powerful voice to Ivorian youth and is now one of the continent’s most dynamic music scenes-with Widgunz as one of its brightest symbols.
As part of our “Future of Music” selection, Widgunz took some time to answer a few questions for us…
Face of RSA “Future of Music
You are part of the “Future of Music” selection by Rolling Stone Africa. What does it mean to you to be considered an artist who embodies the future of music?
I am truly honored; it motivates me to improve my craft and not disappoint my audience. Especially since this recognition comes from Rolling Stone! One of the most famous magazines in the world believes that I will achieve great things in music, which proves that we are on the right path.
Future of Music: Evolution & Vision
How do you view the evolution of Ivorian music in recent years? What excites or intrigues you, and how do you imagine the future of it ?
Ivory Coast alone is full of remarkable cultural diversity. Moreover, the musicians here show outstanding creativity.
For example, every two years since the rise of coupé-décalé, a new urban trend emerges; we have our own slang, “noushi”, which evolves very quickly and is a key part of our identity.
Today, Ivorian rap has found its place within this rich musical landscape. Several artists, like Didi B, Les Kiff No Beat, myself, and many others, have helped elevate this renaissance of Rap in Côte d’Ivoire.
Now, the movement is full of talent, each with their own style and touch. All these efforts from every player help us grow and attract a larger audience.
Futuristic Music Collab
If you could imagine a futuristic or unexpected collaboration, or simply a collaboration you’d be proud to achieve and share with your community in the coming years, which African or international artist would it be with, and why?
I’d say American artists. Like Young Thug, Future, or Lil Baby, because they inspire me.It would truly be a first for Francophone Africa to break boundaries with this category of artists from the US, which for me is the birthplace of Rap/Hip-Hop music. Above all, it would be about sharing our diverse cultures and showing young people who grew up listening to these artists that it’s possible.
It would be incredible to work with them!
In your opinion, what makes the Ivorian music scene unique, and how do you see it evolving in the coming years, especially for rap?
I think Ivorian rap is made up of many artists, each with their own style and touch, and the efforts of every player help the movement grow and attract more audience and fans.
Was there a key moment in your career that really allowed you to assert yourself artistically? What advice would you give to a young talent who wants to establish themselves on the Ivorian scene and beyond, like you?
For me, it was my first shows; the one organized when I was just starting out in the US to get known among the Ivorian diaspora and Francophone Africa. We quickly got great feedback on our work.
Honestly, I really appreciate being close to my audience and giving them all the energy I get in return.
The most recent and most important concert was at the Palais de la Culture.
There was incredible energy; more than 30 artists from the Ivorian rap scene were there to support me or experience the moment with me, it was heartwarming.
People like Didi B and other entrepreneurs from the country (the creators of the artistes.ci platform) helped me make this unforgettable event happen. It gives other artists confidence and belief in their abilities. And we saw it right after this event, with the excitement for the Anoumabo hall (Palais de la Culture) and new venues for artists.There is really something to be done!
The advice I can give to newcomers is to have a real love for their craft, to work with professionalism, and to have a structured circle that supports their vision.
