Benin-born artist Shallipopi has taken another giant leap in his meteoric rise with the release of his international collaboration “HIM” featuring American rapper Gunna. The track, officially released on October 24 2025, marks a defining moment not only for Shallipopi’s career but also for Edo State’s presence on the global music stage. Distributed under Since ’93 Records in partnership with Plutomania Records, “HIM” blends Afro-rhythmic bounce with Gunna’s Atlanta-trap finesse — a sound designed for both Lagos dancefloors and New York clubs
The Rise of Shallipopi — From Benin City to Global Charts
Born Crown Uzama, Shallipopi grew up in Benin City, Edo State, where his love for rhythm and storytelling shaped his early music. Known for catchy street anthems like Elon Musk, Cast, and Evil Receive, he quickly earned a reputation as one of the most creative voices of the Gen Z Afrobeats wave. His distinctive slang-filled lyrics and witty “Pluto” persona have become trademarks that resonate deeply with Nigerian youth.
By 2023, his debut album Presido La Pluto cemented his place as one of Nigeria’s breakout acts, blending witty street pop with cosmic references that made his sound instantly recognizable. With HIM, Shallipopi extends that narrative — transforming from local star to global ambassador for Benin City’s new-school sound.
About the Collaboration: Shallipopi x Gunna
The collaboration between Shallipopi and Gunna didn’t just happen overnight. Music insiders have hinted at months of behind-the-scenes talks and shared sessions between the two camps. Gunna, known for hits like Pushin P and Fukumean, brings a smooth trap energy that complements Shallipopi’s Afro-street rhythm perfectly.
The track “HIM” serves as a dialogue between continents — Nigeria’s booming Afrobeats and America’s modern trap scene. The chemistry is evident: Gunna delivers melodic verses with his signature laid-back flow, while Shallipopi injects vibrant Pidgin punchlines and the swagger that made “Plutomania” a household term.
On social media, Shallipopi announced the collaboration with a simple caption:
“HIM w/ Gunna OUT NOW 🚀🌍”
The post instantly went viral across X (Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok, racking up hundreds of thousands of plays within hours.
Sound & Production Style
“HIM” stands out for its fusion. The production — rumoured to involve both Nigerian and U.S. engineers — merges layered Afro-percussion, synth pads, and 808-heavy trap drums. The result is a transcontinental hybrid that fits on both Afrobeats and hip-hop playlists.
The song’s lyrics explore themes of self-confidence, dominance, and global ambition, aligning with Shallipopi’s growing brand as a self-made artist who calls himself Presido La Pluto. Gunna’s verse adds contrast — effortless braggadocio and street wisdom delivered with melodic precision. Together, they create a sound that’s futuristic but rooted in authenticity.
Cultural Significance for Edo State & Nigerian Music
For fans in Edo State, HIM is more than just a song — it’s a statement. Shallipopi’s success represents a new wave of talent emerging from Benin City, joining the likes of Victor Uwaifo and Rema in carrying Edo creativity onto global platforms.
With “HIM,” he continues to prove that Edo artists can compete at the highest levels of international music. The collaboration with Gunna is a visible symbol of Nigeria’s expanding influence in world pop culture and the ongoing fusion of Afrobeat, Amapiano, and Western hip-hop.
Reception and Early Impact
Within the first week of release, “HIM” topped Audiomack’s Top Afro Trending list and gained rapid traction on Apple Music Nigeria and Spotify Global Afrobeats playlists. Fans praised Shallipopi’s bold move to collaborate with a major American artist so early in his career.
Music critics have described the song as “a confident statement of intent” — a record that places Shallipopi in the same conversation as global Afrobeats stars such as Rema, Asake, and Burna Boy. The music video, directed by a cross-continental production team, features futuristic neon aesthetics with nods to Benin’s royal motifs — a visual blend of tradition and innovation.
The Road Ahead
With HIM, Shallipopi has demonstrated that he’s not just another viral Nigerian act — he’s building an empire. Industry insiders speculate this collaboration could be the first of several international features ahead of his next studio album slated for 2026.
For Edo youths and Nigerian creatives alike, Shallipopi’s story is one of persistence and self-belief. From freestyling in Benin streets to collaborating with Grammy-nominated Gunna, his journey exemplifies how local talent can go global without losing cultural identity.
Conclusion
HIM ft. Gunna is more than a record — it’s a milestone. It captures a young Edo artist’s determination to take his sound beyond Nigeria and into the world’s mainstream. The song is a confident proclamation: Shallipopi isn’t just “Pluto Presido”; he’s the bridge between Benin City and the global stage.
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