Phenom and Ycee Trade Words Over Claims About Getting Features from Top Artists

Nigerian rappers Phenom and Ycee have found themselves at odds on social media after Phenom shared his frustration about how difficult it has become to secure collaborations with major artistes.

The back-and-forth, which quickly went viral on X (formerly Twitter), sparked debate among fans about loyalty, industry politics, and mutual support within Nigeria’s hip-hop scene.

Phenom Calls Out “Industry Coldness”

Phenom had earlier expressed his disappointment about the struggle to get verses from top acts for his upcoming project. The rapper reminisced about his own peak years, saying he had given opportunities to others — including Ycee and Falz — back when he was one of the hottest names in the game.

His post read in part: “Funny how when you’re trending, everyone wants a verse, but when you reach out, suddenly they’re all ‘busy.’ I remember when I helped a few rappers on their way up. Now it’s crickets.”

Ycee Fires Back

Ycee didn’t let the comments slide. Responding directly, the “Jagaban” crooner accused Phenom of rewriting history, claiming he had been paid for the verse in question.

He also pointed out that Phenom recycled a line he had originally used in a collaboration with Olamide. “Don’t twist the story,” Ycee wrote. “You paid me for that feature, and you even reused my bar from another record. Let’s be real.”

Fans React

As expected, the exchange drew mixed reactions online. While some sided with Phenom, praising him for speaking up about the lack of support among artists, others felt Ycee was right to defend his reputation.

One fan commented: “This is why Nigerian hip-hop struggles — too much ego, not enough unity.” Another added, “Both of them have a point. The industry forgets fast, but business is business.”

Though neither rapper has issued a formal statement since the exchange, the spat has reignited conversations about how much recognition early contributors to the Nigerian rap movement truly receive — and whether collaboration in the industry is driven by respect or relevance.