Kenya: Hopiho and Tonnio share Ayouwé single

‘Ayouwé’ merges rap with the rhythms of amapiano, with the instrumental, crafted by Kenyan producer DJ Gu'Vna, providing the backdrop. The chorus, passionately delivered by Tonnio, adds a dynamic dimension to this composition.

With ‘Ayouwé’, Hopiho and Tonnio offer much more than just a song. Rendered in French and English, the collaboration transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, creating a sonic experience that celebrates diversity.

“Featuring impactful rap verses and a memorable chorus, ‘Ayouwé’ is the ideal track to inspire you to pursue your dreams and persevere in the face of challenges,” a statement reads. “Whether you’re diligently working towards your goals or simply seeking motivational music, ‘Ayouwé’ is here to uplift you. Add this song to your playlists and allow its positive message and irresistible energy to carry you away.”

Hopiho and Tonnio met in 2013 at Homeboyz Radio studios in Nairobi, Kenya. The two French-speaking rappers were there to record French voiceovers for Season 2 of the MTV’s Shuga series.

It was Tonnio who came up with the idea of collaborating with Hopiho, but, at first, the Cameroonian was quite hesitant because he didn’t see the point of making a song with another French-speaking artist.

“I was a French-speaking rapper living in Kenya, an English-speaking country,” Hopiho said. “So, my goal was to create songs with artists who sang in English and Swahili to break the language barrier. Making a song with a French-speaking artist would have been counterproductive, in my opinion.”

However, the Cameroonian rapper quickly changed his mind when he heard Tonnio’s songs. “They weren't well-mixed, but you could tell he had a lot of talent,” Hopiho added.

The two rappers went into the studio and recorded the song ‘Ready for This’. A decade later, they continue to collaborate actively.

Hopiho draws inspiration from his personal experiences and environment to create authentic and impactful music. His distinctive style combines clever lyrics with catchy beats and he is known for his ability to tell captivating stories, addressing themes such as perseverance and the pursuit of dreams.

Antonio Longangi, widely known as Tonnio, meanwhile, is a versatile artist and storyteller hailing from Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Last year, he released his first non-fiction book, Amandla: Born of the First Congo War. He has collaborated with various artists in Kenya such as Kanyeria, King Kaka and DJ Gu'Vna, among others.