Ninho, a cornerstone of French rap, ranks among the most streamed artists on Spotify. Meanwhile, Niska, known for his unforgettable hits, continues to soar following his diamond-certified album Commando. When two heavyweights of the rap scene join forces for a project, they naturally choose the title GOAT (*Greatest of All Time*). This trend of collaborative albums reflects a significant shift in the French rap landscape. Once dominated by clashes and rivalries in the 2000s—with iconic figures like Booba, Rohff, and La Fouine—the genre has now embraced prolific collaborations, inspired by artists such as Jul and Sofiane, evoking the spirit of the late 1990s.
After teasing their project with a series of freestyles titled Unrappeurçarap, Niska and Ninho made waves with the release of the music video Jungle. This track, a true sonic powerhouse, is paired with a captivating visual. Today, rap albums stand out for their diversity, with artists confidently exploring different styles. Collabo, a track from the GOAT album, offers a softer ambiance, reminiscent of Lettre à une femme by Ninho, or Bâtiment by Niska.
Niska and Ninho unveil Collabo: a Symphony of Emotions
The production of Collabo is crafted by the talented Shuriken Music. This prolific beatmaker, a staple in the contemporary rap scene, has collaborated with top-tier artists such as Gazo and Tiakola. Among his notable contributions are Rappel, Fleurs, and Mauvais 2X (featuring Ninho), as well as Gasolina with Tiakola. In Collabo, a delicate piano sample enhances the track, imbuing it with a childlike softness. Together, Ninho and Niska weave a dreamlike love story full of contrasts and sincerity.
The lyrics, rich with emotion, depict a tumultuous relationship: “A heart in a thousand pieces, I needed stability (Stability) / She needs time, I need money, she knows I’m not limited”. And further: “At first, I was on the right path (The right path), the girl turned me into a monster (Turned me into a monster) / She took me for a fool, but thank God I didn’t hit rock bottom”. These narratives, deeply rooted in rap culture, resonate powerfully with listeners.
The music video, directed by the brilliant Tom Menetrey, reflects a polished visual aesthetic previously explored in projects like Jungle and other freestyles linked to GOAT. Collaborating with Lacrème Film, Tom Menetrey once again demonstrates his ability to translate the artists’ universe into striking imagery. This promising alliance between the director and the rappers suggests more memorable creations to come.
Watch the Collabo video now:
