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. This August, Hennessy continues its hip-hop legacy with Hennessy Cypher 2026.
Historic Lineup and Debuts
Cameroon's Tenor makes history as the first artist from the country to feature in the Cypher, joining 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. This diverse lineup underscores Hennessy's commitment to showcasing the breadth of African hip-hop.
Creative Direction by Sarz
Under the creative direction of one of Africa's most influential producers, Sarz, the Hennessy Cypher 2026 remains unapologetically rooted in hip-hop, pairing distinct flows and lyrical traditions with a production that honours the genre's foundations, while pointing to its next chapter.
“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”, says Aimee Kellen, Moët Hennessy, MEA Regional Marketing Director.
Hennessy's Deep Roots in Hip-Hop
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.
Artist Highlights
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 blend 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 most influential voices in hip-hop. Renowned for championing local identity through his music, he has consistently advanced the culture through his distinctive style, lyricism and creative vision.
Kwesi Arthur (Ghana)
Kwesi Arthur is one of Ghana's most 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 most influential contemporary artists. Known for her versatility, creativity and powerful stage presence, she has spent more than a decade helping shape East Africa's evolving music landscape.
Enny (United Kingdom)
British-Nigerian rapper and songwriter Enny has emerged as one of the most 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 most 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.
Production and Credits
The Cypher music video was directed and produced by Juan Visser/ Human Studio in Johannesburg, with styling by Bee Diamondhead. Fans can follow @Hennessy on Instagram, X and YouTube for daily updates.
About the Hennessy Cypher
First launched in Nigeria in 2011, the Hennessy Cypher has evolved into a powerful platform for musical innovation and cultural storytelling across Africa and now the world. Known for spotlighting 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, offering them a space to express, collaborate, and represent their unique identities on a global stage. The Hennessy Cypher is a statement of Hennessy’s ongoing commitment to African excellence, cultural progression and the art of blending music, style and storytelling.
About Maison Hennessy
Founded on Richard Hennessy’s pioneering spirit and with a legacy of over 260 years, Hennessy spans more than 150 countries while remaining deeply rooted in the Charente region of France. Exceptional cognacs are crafted using grapes nurtured by the land and only the finest natural ingredients. Enjoyed across the globe, Hennessy cognac is made for all occasions and is shared to create moments of meaning, connection, and celebration.
Beyond its iconic cognacs, Hennessy embraces cultural collaborations, evidenced through its many partnerships with visionary artists from around the world. Over the years, Hennessy has worked with cultural icons in design, art, fashion and music to celebrate a diverse range of creativity to reflect the multi-faceted nature of the brand and to bring to life the Hennessy cognac’s versatility.
For further information, services, and collaboration details, please visit Hennessy.com or follow Hennessy on Instagram.
