Vader Wins Hennessy VS Class Season 4

MICHAEL AKINOLA

After six weeks of lyrical “dopeness” and intense bars, everything came to a crescendo Thursday as 24-year old Franklyn Ikemefuna with the stage name VADER earned the bragging rights as Nigeria’s hottest MC by winning the fourth season of Hennessy Artistry VS Class.

The Ibadan-based rapper emerged the best out of the 40 rappers chosen to participate on the live Radio competition after a keenly contested live and online audition sessions.

His journey to the prize wasn’t smooth either; after losing in the finals of second season of the show, VADER exhibited the ‘never stop never’ spirit by returning to the Hennessy VS Class arena to battle for the right to be called the best upcoming MC in Nigeria.

Although he lost the final of his Week 3 Group; the Class Master for VS Class 2017, Vector, made him his wild card pick for the grand finale and VADER never looked back as he outrapped and outbattled seven other gifted MCs to win the competition.

Speaking of his victory, VADER said, “I feel I had to lose in order to win and I sincerely appreciate the Class Master, Vector. He has always been a mentor, every time I see him, there is always something to learn. I was built for this type of competition. I was made for this”.

It was evident that VADER’s past losses drove him to focus on ensuring his final performance was energetic, intense and lyrical.

He took daring shots at his opponent, Dabu The Gemini, and was the unanimous choice of the studio judges and social media.

As the winner, VADER wins an album deal with ARISTOKRAT records.

He will also undergo an intense one year mentorship with the Class Master, Vector The Viper, who will work with him to hone his craft on the album.

Hennessy Artistry is a unique platform that brings the art of blending to life; providing the stage for an eclectic mix of talents to deliver unforgettable consumer experiences.