Beyond Rhythm: Lyrical Analysis of Muslim Female Hausa Rap Artists in Kaduna State
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Abstract
Public discourse around Muslim female rappers often centers on the sociocultural challenges they encounter, while limited attention is paid to the messages embedded in their artistic expressions. Although a few studies have examined rap lyrics, existing scholarship largely focuses on themes of misogyny or comparisons between male and female artists. This study shifts the lens toward the lyrical content of Muslim female Hausa rap artists in Kaduna State, exploring how they use rap as a communicative tool within their cultural context. Employing thematic analysis, the study identified dominant themes that were subsequently subjected to textual analysis. The findings reveal that these artists primarily engage with societal issues, while also emphasizing themes such as determination, perseverance, and hope. The study demonstrates that Muslim female Hausa rappers use their music as a platform to articulate personal and collective concerns, enabling them to project voices that might otherwise remain unheard in their communities.
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