Renowned Nigerian disc jockey and music producer, DJ Neptune, has shared heartfelt memories and admiration for the late indigenous rap icon, Dagrin, revealing the moment he knew the late artist was truly special.
In a recent interview on HipTV, DJ Neptune recounted a powerful studio session that forever cemented his respect for Dagrin. According to Neptune, the rap sensation recorded his entire verse for their collaborative track “123 Remix” in just eight minutes—a feat that still amazes him to this day.
“If there’s one artist I respect so much, it’s Dagrin,” Neptune stated. “When we recorded the remix of ‘123’, he delivered his verse in 8 minutes.”
This brief but impactful moment, Neptune explained, was not just a testament to Dagrin’s lyrical mastery, but also his unmatched studio discipline, creativity, and professionalism.
Though his life was tragically cut short in a 2010 car crash, Dagrin’s legacy remains etched in the heart of Nigerian music. Born Oladapo Olaitan Olaonipekun, the rapper rose to prominence with his 2009 album “C.E.O (Chief Executive Omoita),” which boldly championed Yoruba language rap and street-conscious storytelling.
Tracks like Pon Pon Pon, Ghetto Dream, and Kondo solidified his status as a pioneer of indigenous rap—a lane many of today’s street pop stars continue to benefit from. His death at the peak of his rising fame left a void in the industry, but also created a foundation of inspiration for new-generation rappers and artists.
“He was simply in a class of his own,” Neptune added. “You could feel the passion in his delivery and the rawness in his lyrics. He was real, and the streets could relate.”
DJ Neptune, whose real name is Imohiosen Patrick, has had an illustrious career spanning over a decade. From his early days on radio to becoming one of Africa’s top-performing DJs, he has built a brand that bridges Afrobeats, hip-hop, and dance music.
In 2020, his single “Nobody” featuring Mr. Eazi and Joeboy became a continental hit, topping charts and bagging multiple awards, including The Headies’ Song of the Year. His ability to identify musical synergy and deliver crossover hits has made him a go-to collaborator for some of the continent’s biggest acts including Davido, Burna Boy, Olamide, and Rema.
Neptune’s tribute to Dagrin comes at a time when fans and industry stakeholders are advocating for more formal ways to honour late music legends. Many have called for posthumous recognition, documentaries, and legacy concerts for artists like Dagrin, who paved the way for today’s street music culture.
While Neptune’s recollection may seem like a passing tribute, it echoes a broader sentiment within the industry: the need to preserve musical heritage, especially as Afrobeats continues to expand globally.