On Our Radar: “I Want My Music to Reach People Beyond My Immediate Community” – Firstklaz

Firstklaz Is Bringing Hausa Culture to the Global Afrobeats Stage

Nigerian artist Firstklaz is carving out a distinctive lane in Afrobeats by weaving his Hausa heritage into contemporary soundscapes. Fresh off a Headies nomination, the rising star is proving that cultural authenticity and modern production can create something truly special—music that transcends language barriers while celebrating its roots. In a candid conversation about his journey, Firstklaz opens up about discovering his purpose, building his sound from the ground up, and his vision for introducing Hausa culture to the world through rhythm and melody.

For Firstklaz, the pivot from hobbyist to serious artist came through connection. Growing up surrounded by music, he didn’t initially view it as a viable career path. That perspective shifted dramatically when he started releasing songs and witnessed listeners genuinely engaging with his work. “Seeing people sing my lyrics back to me and relate to my stories made me realise music could be bigger than just a hobby,” he explains. Those early recordings were raw and resourceful—limited equipment, plenty of trial and error, but each session sharpened his craft. That scrappy beginning instilled a resilience that still drives him today, along with a fearless approach to experimentation that defines his genre-blending style.

Now entering what he calls “a new chapter,” Firstklaz describes his sound as a fusion of African rhythms and Hausa culture, blending traditional melodies and storytelling with sleek modern production. The result is music that can make you move or make you reflect, sometimes both at once. His proudest milestone? Watching his music reach audiences far beyond his immediate community, proving that honest artistry knows no borders. “I want my music to introduce more people to Hausa culture and show how beautiful and universal it is,” he shares. “If someone from anywhere in the world can sing along to a Hausa lyric and feel something, then I’ve done my job.” For Firstklaz, success isn’t measured in chart positions alone—it’s about building a lasting legacy, selling out global venues, and creating timeless music that inspires the next generation of African artists to embrace their identity without compromise.

Stay connected with Afrobeat San Diego for the latest in global Afrobeats.