by Abbas Haider
Roughly a year after leaving Pakistan for the UK, freestyle rapper Ghani Tiger has carved out a following in London through his energetic Punjabi and Urdu rap and poetry, much of it built around the social and political issues of the moment.
Ghani Tiger, whose real name is Hamza Ghani, has already shared London stages as an opening act for Bohemia, Abrar-ul-Haq and Bilal Saeed, earning loud applause from crowds.
Beyond the ticketed shows, he has performed at private events, on street corners and at landmark spots across the city, including Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus.
In recent months, his rap tribute to the Pakistan armed forces spread widely online, its patriotic theme and catchy lyrics driving the response.
What sets him apart, many in the industry say, is speed: he can build a brand-new song lyrics, rhythm and delivery within seconds. Bohemia, Abrar-ul-Haq and Zeeshan Rokhri have all called him a genius talent for that instant rap poetry.
His story carries a shadow. In 2020, his father was killed and his brother shot in Pasrur, Punjab. Ghani Tiger posted an emotional video calling for justice, and the case drew major attention online; he says some of those involved in his father's killing remain at large. He channelled the loss into music about grief, hope and survival.
"My father's killing was the darkest phase of my life," he said. "I was young when he was killed. I created hope out of despair and decided to live on through positivity and hope. I worked hard to look after my family and ensured that I give education to the needy around me."
He first made his name in Pakistan's underground rap circuit, at live events and on streaming platforms, becoming known for sharp delivery, street-inspired lyrics and a strong social media following. In London, he sees a new platform—and a wider British-Asian audience.
More read, Ghani Tiger Father Murder Case: Three Suspects arrested
"There is a growing influence of South Asian rap in the UK, where artists are mixing Punjabi, Urdu and English sounds to create music that speaks directly to diaspora communities," he said. "I love this."
