From heartfelt tributes to tear-jerking bars, discover 15 powerful songs by African rappers that celebrate fatherhood in all its glory.
While the best African rappers are often praised for their braggadocio and bravado, many have also flexed their softer side—penning verses that celebrate the men who raised them, or the little humans calling them “dad.”
Having previously explored Afrobeats songs that honor fathers—and those that pay tribute to mothers—this is a compilation of 15 heartfelt hip-hop cuts by rappers from the continent that salute fatherhood—from tales of redemption and reconciliation to lullabies wrapped in lyricism. Grab a tissue… or two in honor of the fathers, the future fathers, and the father figures.
1. Reggie Rockstone ft. Trigmatic – Daddy
Hiplife originator Reggie Rockstone delivers a fatherhood anthem with extra Ghanaian flavor. Assisted by the soulful Trigmatic, Daddy is a heartfelt shoutout to fathers everywhere. Equal parts reflective and celebratory, it’s like Father’s Day set to a beat.
2. Nasty C – Pops
Few artists open their hearts quite like Nasty C. Having publicly unpacked his complex relationship with his father, Pops feels like an emotional full circle. No longer the conflicted teen, Nasty C pays tribute to his dad’s influence—morals, spirituality, and all. It’s vulnerable, grown-man rap at its finest.
3. Cassper Nyovest – Superman
Cassper doesn’t just honor his father—he recruits his dad’s favorite artist, Lesotho music legend Tshepo Tshola, to bless the chorus. Superman is packed with gratitude, as Cassper Nyovest reflects on life lessons, childhood memories, and all the subtle ways a dad shapes a man. Add Tshepo’s soulful vocals, and you’ve got goosebumps wrapped in nostalgia
4. A-Reece – Family
A-Reece doesn’t sugarcoat. Family is a raw, emotionally heavy narrative about growing up in a broken home. He talks about resentment toward his father and, ultimately, forgiveness. Amanda Black’s haunting hook brings the waterworks, while Reece’s storytelling punches straight through the chest.
5. Emtee – Avery
Named after his firstborn, Emtee’s Avery is a love letter to his son. Sung like a conversation, the track is intimate and proud—like peeking into a diary laced with trap drums. It’s also a reminder that Emtee’s most prized platinum plaque is fatherhood itself.
6. ProVerb – The Journey
The Journey finds ProVerb speaking to his unborn child, confessing fears and dreams over buttery Battlekat production. It’s a rap lullaby, tender and thoughtful—proof that even the sharpest emcees can melt when fatherhood calls.
7. Riky Rick – Papa Song
The late Riky Rick reflects on a childhood without a father and the scars it left behind. Papa Song isn’t just about pain but survival and self-discovery. Somber synths frame Riky’s voice with raw vulnerability as he confronts his past and carves a better future.
8. ProVerb ft. HHP – Bread Winners
A few years after The Journey, ProVerb circles back—now with a toddler in tow. Teaming up with the late HHP, Bread Winners is a celebration of responsible fatherhood. Bonus points for the adorable baby vocals and mall-stroll music video. Dads on duty!
10. Reminisce ft. Davido – Daddy
Afrobeats meets rap in this generational tribute. Reminisce and Davido aren’t just giving their fathers flowers—they’re planting entire legacy trees. While Davido croons with his signature smoothness, Reminisce brings that gritty Yoruba flavor. It’s emotional, it’s aspirational—it slaps.
11. Jayso – My Daddy’s A Champ
Jayso gives us the ultimate “bring your kid to the studio” moment. Featuring vocals from his toddler daughter, this song is more adorable than a Father’s Day card with glitter. Over laid-back production, the pair trade bars (and giggles) in one of the most wholesome hip-hop moments.
12. Quamina MP ft. KofI Mole – SAD
After surviving a car crash that tragically claimed his father’s life, Quamina MP poured his grief into music. On SAD, he teams up with Kofi Mole to channel the sorrow, longing, and trauma into a moving tribute. It’s not just a track—it’s therapy with a beat.
13. Ko-Jo Cue – Rich Dad, Poor Dad
Ko-Jo Cue’s song borrows its title from Robert Kiyosaki’s financial self-help classic—but with a twist. He raps about his real-life father, contrasting economic realities while encouraging his listeners (and himself) to build generational wealth.
14. Nasty C – Dear Oliver
From son to father, Nasty C switches seats on Dear Oliver, writing a heartfelt letter to his own child. It’s the follow-up to Pops we didn’t know we needed. With a mix of excitement, anxiety, and self-reflection, the rapper passes down game—and love—in equal measure.
15. M.anifest – My Friend, My Hero (Fathers’ Day Tribute)
Then a brand ambassador for fashion brand Woodin, M.anifest dropped this gem as a Father’s Day freestyle in collaboration with the brand. More than a decade on, it still deserves a nod for its poetic honesty and subtle charm. Plus, it’s M.anifest—bars are always guaranteed!
