Champz Names the Artists Shaping the Sound of His Debut EP
Rising Nigerian rapper Champz, the 14-year-old son of global superstar Wizkid, has revealed the musical influences behind his fast-rising debut project, offering fans deeper insight into the sound defining his early career.
In a new interview with Glitch Africa, Champz shared that his debut EP, Champion’s Arrival, is heavily inspired by a fusion of UK rap and Afro-fusion elements. He stated that four artists in particular shaped the direction of the project: J Hus, Asko, Nines, and Clavish.
“These are the main inspirations for this EP,” he explained, noting that their signature approaches to rhythm, delivery, and street-rooted storytelling guided much of his creative process.
Champz’s music leans strongly into Afro-swing and UK drill, genres known for their gritty flows, minimalist production, and punchy cadence. By aligning himself with some of the UK’s most influential rap voices, the young artist signals his intention to carve out a distinct lane — one that stands apart from his father’s globally celebrated Afrobeats background.
His Glitch Africa appearance comes on the heels of the explosive success of Champion’s Arrival, which made history by hitting No. 1 on the Apple Music Nigeria Albums Chart within just five hours of release. The EP also charted in several countries and accumulated over one million streams in its first 24 hours.
With a rapidly growing fan base, a record-setting debut, and a clear artistic direction, Champz is positioning himself as one of the most promising young voices pushing the next wave of African and UK-influenced rap.
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