Hennessy Cypher 2025 unites pan-African and international artists in a groundbreaking fusion of music, fashion, and storytelling.
As a global leader in cognac and a steadfast supporter of music culture, Hennessy has unveiled the eagerly awaited Hennessy Cypher 2025. This edition marks a historic moment by seamlessly merging Hip-Hop, Amapiano, and Afrobeats into one dynamic collaboration for the very first time.
This year’s Cypher showcases a vibrant collective of talent from South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Tanzania, and the UK, highlighting a pan-African and diaspora synergy that reinforces Hennessy’s position as a pioneer in cultural innovation and musical evolution.
The 2025 Cypher is a trailblazing musical project that transcends genres and embraces inclusivity, spotlighting Africa’s expanding global influence and the richness of diverse artistic expression. It embodies Hennessy’s ‘Made for More’ ethos, which champions the idea that creativity fused with culture produces extraordinary outcomes.
Notably, this edition introduces female artists into the Cypher for the first time, while blending Amapiano, Afrobeats, and Hip-Hop into a single, cohesive track. This bold initiative reflects the dynamic growth of Africa’s soundscape and Hennessy’s dedication to amplifying marginalized voices and redefining the Cypher experience. The spotlight shines on six distinctive artists celebrated for their originality: Kabza De Small, Femi One, Ms Banks, Blaqbonez, Jaivah, and Joey B.
“The essence of the Hennessy Cypher lies in the passion for music and creative collaboration,” explains Vincent Montalescot, Hennessy’s global Chief Marketing Officer. “It’s a collective movement that brings together artists who are reshaping genres and influencing culture across Africa and beyond. As a masterful curator of talent and vision, Hennessy continues to deepen its connection with Africa and reaffirms its commitment to elevating African artistry on the world stage.“
The Cypher’s music video is set within the metaphorical Hennessy House, where each room symbolizes a distinct genre, rhythm, and cultural narrative. This imaginative concept celebrates coexistence rather than competition, illustrating how Hip-Hop, Amapiano, and Afrobeats harmoniously share space both visually and sonically.
Filmed and produced in Cape Town, South Africa, the Hennessy House serves as a vibrant backdrop for a multicultural showcase of sound and continental fashion, guiding viewers through an elegant journey across diverse musical landscapes.
Hennessy’s deep-rooted connection to Hip-Hop spans over five decades. From legends like Tupac and Snoop Dogg to icons such as Nas and Drake, the brand has been referenced in more than 4,000 songs, making it the most cited spirit in music history.
Watch the 2025 Hennessy Cypher here: https://bfan.link/hennessy-cypher
South Africa’s Kabza De Small, hailed globally as the King of Amapiano, brings authentic township vibes to the Cypher. As a pioneer of the genre, he was South Africa’s top-streamed artist on Spotify in both 2020 and 2024 and has recently collaborated with international stars like Drake and 21 Savage on their It’s a Blur tour. His contribution grounds the Cypher in local heritage while elevating Amapiano’s global stature.
Kenya’s Femi One, a fearless rapper known for her Swahili verses and bold narratives, represents East Africa. Winner of Best Female Rapper at the 2022 AFRIMA Awards and famed for the viral track Utawezana, she makes history as one of the first female artists and the first East African woman to feature in the Cypher, delivering incisive lyricism and cultural depth.
Ms Banks, born in the UK to Nigerian and Ugandan parents, embodies the fusion of diaspora identity and UK rap culture. Having collaborated with Nicki Minaj and Cardi B and performed at Glastonbury, she is recognized for her sharp lyricism and distinctive style. As the first UK-based artist and one of two women in the Cypher, she injects bold energy and international flair into the project.
Nigerian artist Blaqbonez is celebrated for his genre-defying blend of hip-hop, Afrobeats, and pop. His acclaimed album Emeka Must Shine features collaborations with Ludacris and earned him a spot on Rolling Stone’s list of 50 Hip-Hop innovators. In the Cypher, he delivers clever wordplay and boundary-pushing verses, representing a fresh voice in African rap.
Tanzania’s Jaivah is an emerging talent known for mixing Amapiano, Bongo Flava, and Afrobeats. His 2023 hit Soup became a regional anthem, and his latest single Kautaka is gaining momentum across Africa, including Nigeria. His experimental style and East African influence broaden the Cypher’s sonic diversity.
From Ghana, Joey B is a rapper and vocalist renowned for blending Hip-Hop, R&B, and Afrobeat effortlessly. A multiple Vodafone Ghana Music Awards winner, he has collaborated with prominent artists like Sarkodie, King Promise, and Mr Eazi. His contribution to the Cypher adds a smooth, culturally rich layer that bridges underground authenticity with mainstream appeal.
CREDITS
The Cypher music video was directed and produced by Human Studio in Cape Town, with styling by Bee Diamondhead.
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ABOUT THE HENNESSY CYPHER
Originating in Nigeria in 2011, the Hennessy Cypher has grown into a vital platform for musical innovation and cultural storytelling across Africa and beyond. Celebrated for highlighting the continent’s most groundbreaking voices, the Cypher honors lyrical excellence, fearless creativity, and the spirit of advancement.
Each year, the Cypher curates a selection of artists who are shaping the future of music, providing them with a stage to express their individuality, collaborate, and represent their cultures on a global scale.
The Hennessy Cypher exemplifies the brand’s enduring dedication to African excellence, cultural evolution, and the artful fusion of music, style, and narrative.
ABOUT HENNESSY
Founded on the visionary spirit of Richard Hennessy and boasting a heritage spanning over 250 years, Hennessy is present in more than 160 countries while remaining deeply rooted in France’s Charente region. Beyond its renowned cognacs, Hennessy actively engages in cultural collaborations, partnering with visionary artists worldwide.
Over time, Hennessy has joined forces with icons across design, art, fashion, and music to celebrate diverse creativity, reflecting the brand’s multifaceted nature and showcasing the versatility of its cognac.
For more information, serving suggestions, and collaboration inquiries, visit Hennessy.com or follow @Hennessy on Instagram.
Download official photos and videos, and access all Hennessy news at press.hennessy.com.
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