For the past few days, the internet has been abuzz with conversations around Nepo babies and Lapo babies, which have sparked hilarious takes and sobering reminders about Nigerias glaring class divide. For the uninitiated, a Nepo baby is someone born into wealth, access, and a privileged life, with everything handed to them on a silver platter.
A Lapo baby, on the other hand, is a child from a humble background who has to work twice as hard just to make ends meet. And because music, like every form of art, mirrors real life, the contrast shows up in the lyrics. While some artists rap about first-class flights, designer drip, and dollar deals, others pray just to survive lifes challenges and make it out of the hood. Many of these artists, often tagged under the growing Afro-Adura wave, have made a career out of turning struggle into a soothing sound..
So, we put together a list of Nigerian lyrics that slap differently when youve actually been there. If these lines hit a little too close to home, welcome, certified Lapo baby.
Olamide Anifowose [Official Video]
Dem be high class, dem say we are so low o / Mommy ta aso ati bata e fun paro / Daddy ta aso ati bata e fun paro / To put food on the table
This lyric from Olamides Anifowose which samples Wasiu Ayindes song of the same title, captures the harsh reality of parents sacrificing their own comfort, selling their clothes and shoes, just to make sure there was food on the table. For anyone who grew up in difficult circumstances, you can remember times like this. So, if this resonates deeply with you, theres no doubt: youre a Lapo baby.
No rich papa and no rich mama / Sometimes I wonder why I come this life / Maybe na me God send to make things right / For my family with my melody
If youve ever looked around and realized you are the familys biggest shot at breakthrough, this Seyi Vibezs lyric will feel personal. No inheritance, no support, just dreams, prayers, and talent. AnyLapo babies reading this already can picture it.
Every day man ah been knocking / Every time man ah been working / Steady grinding wan tire me / But I no fit quit hustle for mummy
This is the anthem for everyone who left home to feed home, and has ever felt exhausted but kept going because your mothers smile is your only motivation. When giving up isnt an option because people are counting on you, thats Lapo life in full definition.
Aje, I no go dull / I swear I no go dull / Wetin mama go chop?
Beyond just being a motivational song to do more, the particular line from this song comes from knowing that your mothers next meal might depend on how hard you hustle today. For anyone who has had to carry family burdens before pursuing their own dreams, this line is a reflection of that reality. Every Lapo baby understands it too well.
I tell my G make he wake me up by three / Cause the zero balance no go make me sleep / Even if I sleep, mind no fit sleep / Mummy steady calling make I press money / Tolani go soon resume, thats my baby sis
This is what anxiety sounds like when your account is empty, and your family is looking up to you. When sleep doesnt come easy, not because of noise, but because of lack. If youve ever had to calculate school fees, feeding money, and rent with nothing but hope, then this one was written for you. Lapo Baby, stamped and certified.
Victor AD Wetin We Gain
Phone dey ring / Na family dey call oh / If no be billing na something dey sup oh / Anyhow e be omo money is involve oh / Oluwa bless me cause I no fit dull oh
For many lapo babies, the only reason the phones ring is that someone needs help. Theres always something: bills, emergencies, school fees, or Urgent 2k request. And even when you have nothing, youre still expected to come through. If youve ever sighed before picking a call, this ones your reality. Youre a certified Lapo baby.
Omije loju mi my padi / I go school mi o le pari / And no be say I no sabi / But owo lomi se ojoro
In this song, Ayo Maff says he cried because he had to drop out. Not because he wasnt smart, but because there was no money. For anyone who has watched dreams shrink in the face of poverty, this one hits different. Another entry for the Lapo baby hall of fame.
