With recurring themes like taking the day as it comes, belief in yourself (almost touching a narcissistic level) and constant romanticism of marijuana, Näääk is probably one of the most honest lyricists in Swedish hip hop.

Näääk, who’s real name is Matar Henrikki Samba, has a Finnish mother and a Gambian father. His stage name derives from a misunderstanding while trying to explain the Finnish word for people of African descent – the bad one.

Together with Nimo, Näääk has released two full-length albums. The songs of Näääk & Nimo is primarily used to describe their lives, which often consists of partying, smoking weed and chilling with the boys. His supporting acting role in the Swedish film Stockholm Boogie could almost be seen as a picture of himself had he not had the music: a laid back weed dealer who always seems to be where the party is at.

On the latest album, Mannen utan mask, Näääk & Nimo are returning to the stuff we got to hear on the debut, together with several outstanding Swedish hip hop acts. His music possess the groovy blend of hip hop and reggae, and while he is often contested – like so many other Swedish hip hop artists – because of the constant weed references, Näääk is definitely a song writer interesting enough to be up there with the great ones.

Words by David Johansson

Näääk & Nimo are at Backstage Bar in Norrtälje on March 28.

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