Ahmedu Augustine Obiabo, popularly known as BlackfaceNaija (or simply Blackface), is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and music producer. He is widely recognized for his role in shaping modern Nigerian music, both as a solo artist and a founding member of key groups like Plantashun Boiz and Trybunalz.
⸻
Early Life and Education
Born on August 30, 1976, in Obalende, Lagos, Blackface hails from Ogwule, Agatu in Benue State. He attended Army Children School in Otukpo and Mount Saint Gabriel’s Secondary School in Makurdi, where his passion for music began. He later studied Business Administration and Management at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) in Enugu.
⸻
Music Career
Plantashun Boiz Era
In the late 1990s, Blackface co-founded the legendary group Plantashun Boiz with 2Face Idibia (now 2Baba) and Faze. Together, they released groundbreaking albums like Body and Soul and Sold Out, which played a major role in the rise of R&B and hip-hop in Nigeria.
Blackface is also credited as the co-writer of “African Queen,” the international hit that launched 2Baba’s solo career. Despite the success, the group disbanded in 2004, later reuniting briefly in 2007 to release Plan B.
⸻
Trybunalz Movement
After the Plantashun Boiz era, Blackface went on to form another powerful group called Trybunalz, alongside Rocksteady, Mallam Spicy, and Raz Mike. The group fused reggae, hip-hop, and conscious music, releasing several underground and street anthems.
Some of their standout tracks include:
• “Hard Life” – A socially conscious anthem about struggle and survival in Nigeria.
• “Pain Me” – A raw, emotional track that connected with everyday listeners.
• “Make Una Wake Up”, “Naija No Dey Carry Last”, and others – songs that spoke truth to power and captured the pulse of the streets.
Trybunalz gained a strong cult following, especially in urban centers like Lagos and Abuja, despite limited mainstream media coverage.
⸻
Solo Career and Albums
Blackface’s solo music career has been defined by his deep lyrics, Afro-reggae style, and fearless commentary on social issues. His albums include:
• Ghetto Child (2004)
• Evergreen (2005)
• Jungle Fever (2006)
• Me, Musiq and I (2008)
• Dancehall Business (2010)
• Defender Vol. 1 (2016)
• Rising Sun (2020)
• Ghetto Child 2 (2024)
⸻
Controversies
Blackface’s career has been marked by a long-running dispute with 2Baba over the ownership of “African Queen.” He has also accused various industry players of sidelining him and blocking his access to platforms.
Despite these issues, he continues to release music independently and speaks openly about the challenges in the Nigerian music industry.
⸻
Personal Life
Blackface was married to Dayo, and they have two children, Caroline and Alex. The couple eventually separated.
⸻
Legacy
BlackfaceNaija’s contribution to Nigerian music is undeniable. From Plantashun Boiz to Trybunalz and his solo efforts, he has remained consistent in using his voice to speak for the oppressed and highlight societal issues. His sound—a blend of reggae, hip-hop, and Afro-conscious vibes—remains influential to many upcoming artists.
Post a Comment