Blackface Naija

Blackface Naija: Biography Augustine Obiabo Ahmedu (born 1974), widely known by his stage name Blackface Naija, is a Nigerian reggae and dancehall musician, songwriter, and instrumentalist. He gained initial national and international prominence as a founding member of the highly influential Nigerian musical group Plantashun Boiz, which also included 2Baba (formerly 2Face Idibia) and Faze. Blackface is recognized for his contributions to the development of contemporary Nigerian music, particularly in the fusion of reggae, R&B, and Afropop genres. Early Life and Education Blackface was born in Benue State, Nigeria, and hails from the Okpokwu local government area. He developed a passion for music early in life, influenced by local Nigerian sounds and international reggae artists. His formal education led him to the Institute of Management Technology (IMT) in Enugu, where he met 2Baba and Faze. Their shared love for music led to their decision to form a group. Career Progression The formation of Plantashun Boiz marked the beginning of his professional career. The trio quickly became one of the most popular groups in Nigeria in the late 1990s and early 2000s, releasing successful albums like Body and Soul (2000) and Sold Out (2003). Blackface was a primary songwriter for the group. Following the breakup of Plantashun Boiz in 2004, Blackface embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut solo album, Ghetto Child, later that year. He continued to release several albums under his own imprint, including Evergreen, Jungle Fever, and Dancehall Business. Notable Works and Major Achievements Blackface Naija is often noted for his songwriting credits, particularly for his involvement in writing the song “African Queen,” which became a massive hit for 2Baba. While his solo career has seen him release numerous singles and albums, his most significant cultural impact remains rooted in the foundation of the Plantashun Boiz group and his influential early works in Nigerian R&B and reggae. His style is characterized by a strong infusion of conscious lyrics and Nigerian patois. Current Status Blackface Naija remains an active figure in the Nigerian music industry, consistently releasing new material and performing. He is known for his outspoken nature regarding intellectual property and credits within the industry. He continues to focus on reggae and dancehall, maintaining his independent music production and brand, often reflecting on sociopolitical themes in his work.