Nigerian hip-hop artist Tochukwu Ojogwu, better known as Odumodublvck, has responded to critics of his rap style with fiery defiance, accusing them of feeling “intimidated” by his success.
In a candid interview with The Beat 99.9 FM in Lagos, the rapper passionately defended his unique sound and pointed to his 2023 breakout single *Declan Rice* as undeniable proof of his cultural impact.
“If aspiring rappers try to sound like me, they often get discouraged by negative comments,” Odumodublvck said. “But I made the ‘Good Devil Wells White’ with Larry G and I delivered an A1 verse.” The artist argued that critics dismiss his music not because of its quality, but because they feel threatened by its widespread acceptance. “So many other verses, we’ve done it in English, Vernacular, Patois, we’ve done it in every language. But they want to talk down on it because they feel intimidated,” he stated.
The rapper challenged his detractors to name any recent hip-hop verse with greater cultural resonance than his work. “Which rap line, let them bring it out, has had more cultural impact than my line in ‘Cast’? Which hip-hop song has had more cultural impact in the last 20 years?” he demanded. “In the history of Nigerian hip-hop, no Nigerian song has had more impact in the world like ‘Declan Rice.’ It is the biggest digital asset on Arsenal football club ever on social media. Check it.”
Declan Rice achieved global recognition when English Premier League giants Arsenal used the track to unveil their high-profile signing of the midfielder from West Ham United in 2023. This unexpected sports crossover significantly amplified the song’s reach beyond traditional music audiences.
Odumodublvck didn’t hold back in questioning the validity of criticisms against his artistry. “What metrics are we using here? They should bring it out,” he challenged. “But they said I’m not a rapper. That’s a fallacy. That’s ungrateful. And God will punish all of them.” His comments reflect growing frustration with what he perceives as unfair targeting of his innovative approach to Nigerian hip-hop.
