Crown Uzama, widely known by his stage name Shallipopi, is one of Nigeria’s most exciting rising stars in the Afrobeats and street-pop scene. Known for his signature slang, quirky charisma, and unique sound, Shallipopi has carved out a lane of his own in the rapidly evolving Nigerian music industry. From viral TikTok freestyles to headlining shows across the country, he represents the voice of a new generation—bold, digital, and unapologetically authentic.
Here’s everything you need to know about Shallipopi, including 10 key facts that define his rise to fame.
Who Is Shallipopi?
Shallipopi is a Nigerian singer, rapper, and songwriter born Crown Uzama on April 12, 2000. He hails from Edo State and rose to prominence in 2023 with his breakout single “Elon Musk,” which quickly went viral on TikTok and other digital platforms.
1. He’s From the Heart of Benin City, Edo State
Shallipopi was born and raised in Benin City, the capital of Edo State in southern Nigeria. His cultural roots and local street influences play a major role in his music style, often reflected in his lingo and sound choices.
2. His Real Name Is Crown Uzama
While “Shallipopi” has become a household name among Gen Z and street-pop lovers, his real name is Crown Uzama. The stage name “Shallipopi” reportedly evolved from playful slang among his friends.
3. He Gained Fame With “Elon Musk”
The song “Elon Musk” was a turning point in Shallipopi’s career. It gained massive traction on TikTok due to its infectious hook and relatable street language. The track topped various digital streaming charts in Nigeria and introduced Shallipopi to a wider audience.
4. He’s the Pioneer of the “Pluto” Movement
Shallipopi often refers to himself as the “Pluto President” and his fans as “Plutomanias.” Pluto isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a movement symbolizing a new wave of creativity and non-conformity in Nigerian street culture. He uses it as a metaphor for being different and not of this world.
5. He’s Known for His Slang and Street Language
One of Shallipopi’s biggest appeals is his use of unique, coded street language. Words like “Pluto,” “Shapiru,” “Obapluto,” and “Mammywater flow” have become part of the cultural lexicon among youth, especially on social media.
6. Shallipopi Is Signed to Dvpper Music
Shallipopi is signed to Dvpper Music, a Nigerian record label known for housing rising talents. The label played a crucial role in the distribution and promotion of his early releases, especially during his viral moments in 2023.
7. He Was Arrested by EFCC in 2023 But Bounced Back Stronger
In a twist of events, Shallipopi was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in 2023 for alleged internet fraud. However, after his release, he addressed the incident cryptically in his songs and used it to fuel even more attention to his brand.
8. He Released His Debut EP “Planet Pluto” in 2023
Shallipopi dropped his debut project titled “Planet Pluto” in mid-2023. The EP solidified his unique style and further introduced fans to his world of slang, creativity, and catchy beats. It featured tracks like “Ex Convict”, “Obapluto”, and “Sharpiru”.
9. Shallipopi’s Music Style Mixes Afrobeats, Trap & Street-Pop
His sound is an eccentric fusion of Afrobeats, trap, Amapiano, and Benin street vibes. While some call him a rapper, others see him as a street poet. Either way, he’s a genre-bender whose sound keeps evolving with each release.
10. He’s a Digital Era Artist – Made by the Internet
Shallipopi’s rise was heavily driven by the power of social media, especially TikTok and Instagram Reels. He connects with fans directly through digital platforms, skipping traditional media and using memes, freestyles, and street videos to promote his music.
What’s Next for Shallipopi?
With a growing fan base and an ever-expanding Pluto Nation, Shallipopi shows no signs of slowing down. His raw style, bold attitude, and deep connection with Nigeria’s youth culture make him a unique voice in the country’s thriving music industry. Whether you vibe with his music or not, one thing is clear—Pluto is here to stay.
Final Thoughts
In a music scene filled with polished Afrobeats and commercial hits, Shallipopi stands out as a raw, unfiltered voice of the streets. His rise to fame is proof that talent, relatability, and digital strategy can be more powerful than traditional fame.
From Benin to Billboard, from slang to stardom, Crown Uzama—aka Shallipopi—is one of Nigeria’s most exciting and unpredictable new artists. And this is just the beginning of his Pluto reign.
