Hennessy continues its longstanding legacy in hip-hop with the return of the Hennessy Cypher 2026, bringing together six of Africa and the United Kingdom’s most exciting hip-hop voices for a new musical collaboration produced by acclaimed Nigerian producer Sarz.
For the first time in the Cypher’s 15-year history, the platform features two Francophone African talents, further expanding its celebration of Africa’s diverse musical cultures and lyrical traditions.
This August, Cameroon’s Tenor makes history as the first artist from the country to feature in the Hennessy Cypher. He joins Suspect 95 from Côte d’Ivoire, Yanga Chief from South Africa, Ghana’s Kwesi Arthur, Kenya’s Fena Gitu and British-Nigerian rapper Enny from the United Kingdom.
Under the creative direction of Sarz, one of Africa’s most influential music producers, the Hennessy Cypher 2026 remains firmly rooted in hip-hop while bringing together distinct flows, sounds and lyrical traditions from across different parts of the continent and beyond.
The production pays homage to the foundations of hip-hop while looking towards the genre’s next chapter, creating a platform where the artists can express their individual identities while contributing to a collective sound.
“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,” said Aimee Kellen, Moët Hennessy, MEA Regional Marketing Director.
“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,” she added.
Few brands have maintained a relationship with hip-hop quite like Hennessy. For decades, the Maison has been embraced by artists across generations and geographies, becoming deeply connected to the music, communities and creative movements that continue to shape the genre.
Referenced in more than 58,000 songs, Hennessy remains one of the most-mentioned spirit brands in music history. The Hennessy Cypher 2026 continues the Maison’s longstanding commitment to championing artists who are shaping contemporary culture and connecting their work with new audiences around the world.
The Hennessy Cypher 2026 features a diverse lineup of artists, each bringing a distinct sound, cultural identity and perspective to the collaboration.
Tenor | Cameroon
One of Cameroon’s most recognisable contemporary artists, Tenor has built a reputation through his distinctive blend of rap, Afrobeats and storytelling. With multiple hit releases and a strong following across Francophone Africa, he remains a leading voice in Central African music.
Suspect 95 | Côte d’Ivoire
Known for his sharp lyricism, humour and social commentary, Suspect 95 is widely regarded as one of Francophone Africa’s leading rap voices. His ability to combine entertaining storytelling with cultural insight has earned him a loyal audience across West Africa and beyond.
Yanga Chief | South Africa
Award-winning rapper, songwriter and cultural storyteller Yanga Chief is one of South Africa’s influential voices in hip-hop. Renowned for championing local identity through his music, he has consistently contributed to the growth of the culture through his distinctive style, lyricism and creative vision.
Kwesi Arthur | Ghana
Kwesi Arthur is one of Ghana’s celebrated contemporary artists, recognised for seamlessly blending hip-hop, Afrobeats and personal storytelling. His music has earned international acclaim and established him as one of the leading voices of a new generation of African artists.
Fena Gitu | Kenya
Singer, songwriter and cultural pioneer Fena Gitu is widely regarded as one of Kenya’s influential contemporary artists. Known for her versatility, creativity and powerful stage presence, she has spent more than a decade contributing to the development of East Africa’s evolving music landscape.
Enny | United Kingdom
British-Nigerian rapper and songwriter Enny has emerged as one of the compelling voices in UK hip-hop. Hailing from South London, she is known for her thoughtful lyricism, sharp storytelling and socially conscious perspective. She has earned widespread acclaim through projects such as We Go Again and the breakout hit Peng Black Girls.
Sarz | Producer | Nigeria
Widely regarded as one of Africa’s influential producers, Sarz has played a defining role in shaping the sound of contemporary African music. Through collaborations with some of the continent’s biggest artists, he has built a reputation for innovation, versatility and creative excellence.
The Cypher music video was directed and produced by Juan Visser and Human Studio in Johannesburg, with styling by Bee Diamondhead.
The Hennessy Cypher was first launched in Nigeria in 2011 and has since evolved into a major platform for musical innovation and cultural storytelling across Africa and, increasingly, the world.
Known for spotlighting some of the continent’s most disruptive voices, the Cypher celebrates lyrical mastery, bold expression and the spirit of progress.
Each year, the Hennessy Cypher brings together a curated lineup of artists shaping the future of sound, providing them with a platform to express themselves, collaborate and represent their unique identities on a global stage.
The Cypher forms part of Hennessy’s broader commitment to African excellence, cultural progression and the art of blending music, style and storytelling.
Hennessy, founded on Richard Hennessy’s pioneering spirit, has a legacy spanning more than 260 years. The Maison is present in more than 150 countries while remaining deeply rooted in the Charente region of France.
Its cognacs are crafted using grapes nurtured by the land and carefully selected natural ingredients. Enjoyed across the globe, Hennessy cognac is made for different occasions and shared to create moments of connection, celebration and meaning.
Beyond its iconic cognacs, Hennessy continues to embrace cultural collaborations through partnerships with visionary artists around the world. Over the years, the Maison has worked with influential figures in design, art, fashion and music to celebrate diverse forms of creativity and highlight the versatility of Hennessy cognac.
The Hennessy Cypher 2026 is available to experience on YouTube, while fans can follow Hennessy on Instagram, X and YouTube for updates.
Experience the Hennessy Cypher 2026: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5Jzrjmh0ig
