In 2025, the East African music scene has been utterly transformed by Arbantone, a raw, bass-heavy hybrid of Genge storytelling and Dancehall energy that has moved from the backstreets to the top of the charts.
Leading the cultural coup is the year’s undisputed heavyweight, Toxic Lyrikali.
The breakthrough star didn’t just participate in the scene; he conquered it, ending the year as the most-watched Kenyan artist on YouTube and sweeping the UnKut Hip Hop Awards with wins for Best Male Artist and Song of the Year for his gritty hit, “Chinje.”
Also read: Toxic Lyrikali The Relentless Force Driving Kenya’s Arbantone Sound to the Streets and Beyond
But he isn’t alone. From the “commercial engine” of Fathermoh to the high-energy anthems of Gody Tennor, these are the titans who made 2025 the Year of Arbantone.
1. Toxic Lyrikali
The man of the hour. Toxic’s meteoric rise was fueled by his distinct flow and the viral success of “Chinje.”
By December, he was the most-searched musician in the country, proving that independent street sounds can outperform major label budgets.
2. Fathermoh
Already a household name, Fathermoh solidified his “industry legend” status in 2025.
His ability to craft catchy hooks while maintaining the genre’s “rough” edge has made him the most sought-after collaborator for brands and fellow artists alike.
3. Lil Maina
The man who helped birth the sound remains at the top. With hits like “Nakam Sahi” and “Unapose,” Maina proved that he isn’t just a viral sensation but a long-term architect of Kenya’s new urban identity.
4. Gody Tennor
If you were in a Kenyan club in 2025, you danced to Gody Tennor.
His high-energy anthems “Mukuchu” and “Dimba Refix” became the blueprint for Arbantone’s signature dance-heavy style.
5. Dyana Cods
The most dominant female voice in the genre, Cods has smashed the “boys’ club” ceiling.
Her viral collaboration “Mfisadi” alongside Toxic Lyrikali became the soundtrack to thousands of TikTok challenges, proving her lyrical prowess is second to none.
6. Sean MMG
Records were made to be broken, and Sean MMG did just that.
His tracks “Dance Ya Kudonjo” and “Now You Know” maintained a permanent spot on the trending lists, establishing him as a master of the visual medium.
7. Tipsy Gee
A consistent hitmaker, Tipsy Gee became the darling of the “Matatu” (public transport) DJ mixes.
Tracks like “Finish Kumalo” and “Taki Nakati” were on constant rotation from Nairobi to Mombasa.
8. YBW Smith
Known for his sharp wit and street-smart bars, YBW Smith provided the “Genge” backbone to the 2025 wave, ensuring the genre remained rooted in its storytelling origins.
9. Kappy
Kappy’s infectious enthusiasm and fast-paced delivery made him a staple for radio presenters looking to hype up their morning shows.
His presence in the 2025 mixes was inescapable.
10. Maandy
Rounding out the top ten is Maandy, whose versatility allowed her to slide between traditional rap and Arbantone effortlessly.
Her contribution to the 2025 wave ensured the genre had the “cool” factor needed to dominate the luxury lounge scene.
