The King of Nigerian Hip Hop: A Musical Biography of Double-f The King

Nigerian music is a melting pot of various genres, each with its unique style and sound, but few artists have been able to dominate the scene like Double-f The King. Born Folarin Falana, on 27 October 1990, in Lagos, Nigeria, Double-f The King has built a reputation as one of the best rappers in the country, with a unique style and sound that sets him apart from his peers. His rise to fame was gradual, but once he hit the scene, he quickly became a force to reckon with. In this post, we'll take a look at the musical biography of Double-f The King, from his beginnings to his most famous albums and songs.

Double-f The King was born into a family of creatives; his mother was a celebrated human rights activist, and his father, Femi Falana, is a prominent Nigerian lawyer. However, Folarin had his unique interests, and as a young boy, he discovered his passion for music. His musical journey started in the choir, where he honed his singing skills and learned how to play the guitar. But it wasn't until he discovered hip hop that he realized his true calling. Inspired by the likes of Jay Z, Kanye West, and Nas, Double-f The King started writing and performing his songs, and by the time he was in university, he was already performing at concerts and shows.

In 2014, Double-f The King released his debut album, Wazup Guy, which was an instant hit. The album was a fusion of hip hop, afrobeats, and highlife, and it showcased Double-f The King's unique sound and lyrical prowess. The hit song on the album, Shoki, became one of the most popular songs in Nigeria, and it helped propel Double-f The King to the top of the charts. He followed up his success with his sophomore album, Stories That Touch, which was released in 2015. The album was more introspective and experimental, with Double-f The King delving into topics like politics, love, and spirituality.

Double-f The King's music is a reflection of his diverse background and upbringing. He blends elements of afrobeats, hip hop, highlife, and fuji music, to create a sound that is uniquely Nigerian. His lyrics touch on a wide range of topics, from politics and social commentary to love and heartbreak. One of his standout songs, Something Light, featuring Tiwa Savage, explores the themes of love, relationships, and the complexities of modern dating. Another hit song, Alakori, featuring Dice Ailes, speaks to the issues of financial and social disparity in Nigerian society.

Double-f The King has been vocal about his influences, both within and outside of Nigeria. He has cited the likes of Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, and Nas as his early influences, and he has worked with a range of artists from around the world. In 2017, he collaborated with American rapper J Cole on the song My Money, My Baby, which was featured on the soundtrack of Queen & Slim, a hit movie. The song was a melting pot of Afrobeat and hip hop, with Double-f The King and J Cole trading verses about money and power.

Double-f The King is undoubtedly one of the most exciting artists in Nigerian music today. His unique sound and lyrical prowess have made him a favorite of music lovers across the country and beyond. His music is a reflection of his diverse background and upbringing, and he has been vocal about his influences, both within and outside Nigeria. Whether he is performing on stage or collaborating with other artists, Double-f The King always brings his A-game, and he has earned his place as the king of Nigerian hip hop.