Kenyan rapper Toxic Lyrikali is sending a strong message to up-and-coming artists: stop paying for collaborations and start funding your own music journey. The rapper, known for his gritty bars and Kayole roots, has made it clear that instead of paying him for a feature, he’d rather see young talents channel that money into creating something powerful on their own.
In his usual raw and unfiltered style, Lyrikali believes true growth in the music industry starts with self-investment. He encourages artists to focus on producing high-quality tracks, building their brand, and mastering their sound before thinking of collaborations. “The cash you want to send me for a collabo—use it to make a banger,” he said, echoing a sentiment many in the industry are beginning to appreciate.
Through his independent platform Mboka Doba, Toxic Lyrikali has consistently uplifted underground creatives, pushing a do-it-yourself approach that emphasizes authenticity over shortcuts. His message speaks to a wider truth: while collaborations can open doors, they shouldn’t come at the cost of developing your own voice.
This perspective is especially relevant in Kenya’s evolving music scene, where upcoming talent is abundant but often lacks the resources to go the distance. Lyrikali’s advice is a wake-up call to young musicians: take control of your journey, sharpen your skills, and let your work speak before the features do.
