PHOTO CREDIT: Hennessy / Hennessy Cypher 2026
Hennessy Brings Back The Cypher For 2026 With Pan-African Lineup Led By Sarz
Hennessy is doubling down on its decades-long love affair with hip-hop with the return of the Hennessy Cypher 2026 this August.
For the first time in the platform’s 15-year history, the Cypher will feature two Francophone African artists, as six of the continent’s most exciting voices unite on one track.
This year’s lineup makes history: Cameroon’s Tenor becomes the first Cameroonian artist to ever feature on the Cypher, joining Suspect 95 (Côte d’Ivoire), Yanga Chief (South Africa), Kwesi Arthur (Ghana), Fena Gitu (Kenya), and British-Nigerian rapper Enny (United Kingdom).
The all-star collaboration is under the creative direction of one of Africa’s most influential producers, Sarz, with production that stays true to hip-hop’s foundations while pushing its sound forward.
“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,” says Aimee Kellen, Moët Hennessy, MEA Regional Marketing Director.
Few brands are as deeply woven into hip-hop culture as Hennessy. Referenced in over 58,000 songs, it remains the most-mentioned spirit brand in music history.
First launched in Nigeria in 2011, the Hennessy Cypher has grown into a global platform for lyrical mastery, bold expression and cultural storytelling, spotlighting Africa’s most disruptive voices each year.
The official Cypher music video was directed and produced by Juan Visser / Human Studio in Johannesburg and styled by Bee Diamondhead.
Meet the 2026 Cypher Artists:
• Tenor (Cameroon): Known for his blend of rap, Afrobeats and storytelling • Suspect 95 (Côte d’Ivoire): Celebrated for sharp lyricism, humour and social commentary • Yanga Chief (South Africa): Award-winning rapper and cultural storyteller • Kwesi Arthur (Ghana): Leading voice blending hip-hop, Afrobeats and personal storytelling • Fena Gitu (Kenya): Versatile singer, songwriter and East African cultural pioneer • Enny (UK): South London rapper known for thoughtful lyricism on projects like ‘We Go Again’ and ‘Peng Black Girls’
SOURCE: Pulse Nigeria –