For the first time in its 15-year history, the Hennessy Cypher features two Francophone African talents, as six of the continent's most exciting hip-hop voices unite for a new collaboration produced by Sarz.
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This August, Hennessy continues its longstanding commitment to hip-hop with the return of Hennessy Cypher 2026, bringing together six of Africa’s most exciting rap talents for a new collaboration under the creative direction of one of Africa’s most influential producers, Sarz. This year’s edition also marks a milestone in the Cypher’s 15-year history, with Cameroon’s Tenor becoming the country’s first representative and, for the first time, two Francophone African artists joining the lineup.
First launched in Nigeria in 2011, the Hennessy Cypher has grown into a platform that celebrates lyrical excellence, collaboration, and cultural storytelling across Africa and beyond. This year’s lineup features Tenor from Cameroon, Suspect 95 from Côte d’Ivoire, Yanga Chief from South Africa, Kwesi Arthur from Ghana, Fena Gitu from Kenya, and British-Nigerian rapper Enny from the United Kingdom, whose distinct styles come together over a production that honours the foundations of hip-hop while pushing the genre to its next chapter.
Speaking on this year’s edition, Aimee Kellen, Regional Marketing Director, Moët Hennessy MEA, said: “The art of blending is at the heart of Hennessy. Just as distinct eaux-de-vie are brought together to create something exceptional, this year’s Cypher unites six remarkable voices from across Africa and the United Kingdom, each bringing their own perspective and energy. It is a privilege to create a space where these artists can meet, collaborate and make something that could only exist through their collective talent.”
Few brands have a relationship with hip-hop quite like Hennessy. For decades, the Maison has been embraced by artists across generations and geographies, becoming woven into the music, communities and creative movements that continue to shape the genre. Referenced in more than 58 000 songs, Hennessy remains the most-mentioned spirit brand in music history. Hennessy Cypher 2026 continues the Maison’s longstanding commitment to championing artists shaping contemporary culture, connecting their work with new audiences worldwide.
Hennessy Cypher 2026 is now available to watch on YouTube, continuing the platform’s legacy of showcasing African excellence, musical innovation, and the future of global hip-hop.
Cypher music video directed and produced by Juan Visser/ Human Studio in Johannesburg; styled by Bee Diamondhead.
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