By Michelle Ndaga
Kenyan rapper Toxic Lyrikali has marked a major milestone in his career after Apple Music spotlighted him among its “Up Next – East Africa” artists, a recognition he shared with fans on his Instagram account on the night of August 20th.
The honor follows the runaway success of his breakout single “Backbencher,” released on June 20, 2025. The track struck a chord with young listeners for its raw storytelling about life in school, the struggles of underdogs, and the defiance of being overlooked. Its catchy hook and relatable lyrics quickly transformed it into an anthem among students and youth across the country.
By July, Backbencher had climbed to the top of the Apple Music Top 100: Kenya, dominating playlists and sparking viral trends on social media. Fans have embraced the song not just as entertainment but as a mirror of their daily realities, giving it anthem status in schools, campuses, and urban hangouts.
With Apple Music now recognizing him as one of East Africa’s emerging voices, Toxic Lyrikali joins a growing wave of Kenyan artists gaining international traction. His rise underscores both the power of digital platforms and the increasing global reach of Kenya’s hip-hop scene.
