Rapper, Track and Music Video of the Month
This month’s top picks were democratically chosen through an interactive survey on our Instagram account (@dimatopmagazine). Here are the winners of May 2025:
Rapper of the Month: Ayo Adr
Track (Solo) of the Month: Yasuke by Dizzy DROS
Dizzy DROS made a powerful comeback on May 1st with his EP, Tall Puppy Syndrome, his first project in years. The release cleverly tackles the scrutiny and criticism he faces for being “too good” at his craft, turning the narrative on its head with sharp lyricism and wit. Not holding back, Dizzy fires shots at rappers who’ve been sneak-dissing him for years while flexing his elite pen game. The project showcases his signature complex homophones, intricate rhyme schemes, and undeniable skill, proving once again why he stands at the top.
Produced by Teekay, Mixed by E11 Studio, Mastered by Marwan Samy
Track (Featuring) of the Month: Jam Chaud - Small Naar, Namber, Plum, Otat, Rio 27, Libre Man
A powerhouse collaboration, ‘Jam Chaud’, dropped on May 17, uniting former Jamshow stars Small Naar, Namber, Plum, Otat, Rio 27, and Libre Man. Each artist brought their A-game, showcasing fiery bars and undeniable chemistry.
The music video, shot across multiple cities, exploded with over 100K views in just 24 hours, proving their collective star power.
Prod by Sparky, Mixed & Mastered by Elka
Music Video of the Month: Aymane Haqqi - ‘7issan Aswad B Jna7ou’
Aymane Haqqi dropped his striking new music video, “7issan Aswad B Jna7ou,” on May 19, instantly earning the title of Best Music Video of the Month. The visuals are a masterclass in creativity, blending bold, high-contrast colors with stunning aesthetics. On the sonic side, Haqqi pushes boundaries, fusing jazz-infused production with razor-sharp rap, a defiant response to critics who dismissed him as “just a lyricist.”
Director: Hamza Serhane, DOP: Abdelilah Abbassi, Production: 791
Project, Producer, and Designer of the Month
Project of the Month: Small X - ‘Nafida’ EP
Small X made history as the first MENA rapper to sign with Mass Appeal, then followed up with a collab EP, Nafida (meaning “Window”), alongside producer Saib on May 22. Breaking from his signature sharp lyricism and aggressive flow, Small embraces a mellow, lo-fi chill vibe, using the project as a reflective journey through his memories and personal growth.
Produced by Saib, Mixed by Xcep, Mastered by Beau Thomas
Producer of the Month: Teekay
Teekay has been crowned Producer of the Month for his major contribution on Jamshow Season 2, spearheading the beats as the main producer, including the climactic final episode. But his hot streak didn’t stop there: he also fully produced Dizzy DROS’s sharp new 3-track EP, Tall Puppy Syndrome, further proving why he’s a hot producer in demand.
Designer of the Month: Alkemist
Alkemist earned Designer of the Month for his visionary work on Dizzy DROS’s EP “Tall Puppy Syndrome” (TPS). He crafted 3 dynamic YouTube visualizers and 3 striking still covers for streaming platforms, but the real magic lay in his floral symbolism:
- Burning flowers for tension
- Blooming petals for triumph
- Withered stems for introspection
Music Critic of the Month: 3ab9or
Morocco x The World : Tade Dust
This month’s global spotlight shines on Tade Dust, a rising rapper from Japan blending UK drill and Japanese lyricism. Born in 2002 in Chiba Prefecture, Tade Dust is part of the Yonekōzoku collective and has gained international recognition for his unique sound.
Some his highlights:
- TV Spotlight: Top 8 finalist on AbemaTV’s RAPSTAR (2022), Japan’s premier rap competition.
- YouTube Presence: “FXXXED” (13M+ views), Ft. Bonbero, Dudus & Gucci Prince; “Money Love Respect” (2.1M+), Ft. Yvng Patra.
- Spotify Presence: 100K+ monthly listeners (as of March, 2025). Top Tracks: “Obsession” (2.2M+ streams) Ft. Lana, Bonbero & all; “Life Goes On” (2.1M+), “Over-whelming” (1.7M+).
- Red Bull 64 Bars: Featured on the acclaimed freestyle series, showcasing his rapid-fire lyricism (190K+ views on YouTube).
Tade shared his thoughts on a Morap track: ‘Manasich’ by Small X
“After listening to SMALLX – MANASICH, the first thing that stood out to me was the strength of its groove and the distinctive sound textures that feel uniquely Moroccan. The BPM is a laid-back 95, but the beat has a solid backbone, it naturally makes your body move as you listen. The melodies carry a North African vibe that’s quite different from what we’re used to hearing in Japan, which made it feel fresh and immediately ear-catching.
As a rapper, what really caught my attention was SMALLX’s vocal delivery and flow. I don’t understand Arabic, so I couldn’t follow the lyrics, but the emotion and presence in his voice made it clear he’s speaking from a real place […] It reminded me that in rap, it’s not just about what you say, but how you say it that gives it power.
I hadn’t really explored Moroccan hip-hop before this, but this track made me realize just how much more there is out there I haven’t heard. It also gave me inspiration for my own expression. No matter where you’re from or what language you speak, the core of rap—putting your truth into words and rhythm—is universal. This track was a strong reminder of that.”
Top Talk - Hatim Bahia: The Art of Visual Storytelling
Hatim Bahia has solidified his position as one of Moroccan hip-hop’s most in-demand visual architects, designing iconic covers that define the culture. His work spans groundbreaking projects, from PAUSE’s Metamorphose (2023) and 112 (2024) EPs to Diib’s Aokigahara (2024) album and the explosive Origami diss track trilogy. Whether shaping Lferda’s Cagoule (2022) cover or visually narrating 777YM vs. Dsouli’s 2021 rivalry, his art distills hip-hop’s raw energy into unforgettable imagery. We sat down with Hatim to break down his creative philosophy. Here’s how he transforms ideas into cultural landmarks:
- DimaTOP: Your cover art always stands out. What’s the foundation of a great design?
Hatim Bahia: Mastery starts with fundamentals. Cover art is the first impression—it sets the tone before the music even plays. You have to understand platform specs, resolution, content guidelines, and copyright laws. These technical details separate professionals from amateurs and elevate your work. - DimaTOP: How do you maintain a distinct identity in your designs?
Hatim Bahia: A signature style is everything. Over a decade in this game, I’ve learned that being recognizable is power. My covers aren’t just packaging—they’re standalone art that complements the music, like my PAUSE projects. Your visual language should speak before the track does. - DimaTOP: Many young designers undervalue their work. What’s your stance?
Hatim Bahia: Never trade skill for “exposure.” Respect your craft enough to charge what it’s worth. Invest in your tools, push creative boundaries, and collaborate—don’t just take orders. Art isn’t about rigid rules; it’s about vision. - DimaTOP: Your attention to detail is legendary. What’s your approach?
Hatim Bahia: Obsess over the process, not just the outcome. Take my Restricted tags—I treat them like film ratings, not generic Parental Advisory labels. Even my signature placements are deliberate, like hidden codes. These nuances sharpen my eye long before the audience catches them. That’s how you turn design into legacy.
Word of the Month: Culture
In hip hop, we throw around the word “culture” constantly, hell, I’ve said it a thousand times myself. But what does it actually mean? Is it just a trendy label, or is there something more profound at its core? Culture in hip-hop isn’t just about baggy jeans, graffiti, or boom-bap beats; it’s the lifeblood of the movement. Hip-hop was never just music. It was born from the stories, struggles, and resilience of Black and Latino communities, a raw, unfiltered voice for the unheard.
Look no further than Verzuz. What started as a pandemic-era Instagram Live experiment by Swizz Beatz and Timbaland became a cultural reset. It wasn’t just about beats or bragging rights; it was a celebration of legacy, where icons like DMX and Brandy shared stages (or screens) with new-gen stars. Verzuz proved hip-hop’s power to unite, turning battles into communal rituals.
Morocco’s hip-hop story mirrors this defiance. In the ’90s and early 2000s, rap was dismissed as a passing fad. But culture doesn’t beg for approval, it demands space. Today, national TV airs Jam Show, a rap competition platforming homegrown talent. Media that once ignored hip-hop now depends on it to stay relevant.
As Russell Simmons, founder of Def Jam, said: “I see hip-hop as the new American mainstream. We don’t change for you; you adapt to us.” And that’s exactly what happened. Hip-hop didn’t conform to society’s rules, society had to adapt to hip-hop.
Written by music critic Flouka
Letter from the Editor
This May, we celebrate the synergy between Moroccan rap and its visual, cultural, and stylistic elements. From Ayo Adr’s lyrical dominance to Small X’s groundbreaking lo-fi EP, and from Teekay’s innovative beats to Alkemist’s symbolic visuals, Moroccan hip-hop continues to inspire and innovate..
Fashion, often the silent partner of hip-hop, also took center stage this month. Designers like Dosei, Lghleya, and AB Fusion are redefining the aesthetic of Moroccan rap, blending heritage with rebellion to create statement pieces that are as bold as the music itself.
To all the artists, producers, designers, and fans: keep creating, innovating, and pushing boundaries. Together, we’re not just making music or fashion, we’re rewriting history.
Sincerely,
DimaTOP Magazine extends its sincere gratitude to the following individuals for their invaluable contributions to this issue. Their expertise, creativity, and dedication have been instrumental in bringing this publication to life.
Official Contributors: Assim, Ben Pensmith, L5atire, Okawara Namiko
Other Contributors: Issam Bentarki, Hatim Bahia, Flouka, Tade Dust
Photographs/Designs:
Alkemist, BetterCallSer, Hamza Rochdi, Moris, Osama Dzn, PixelPassionStudio
Stay tuned for more from DimaTOP Magazine, the voice of Moroccan hip-hop!
Become a DimaTOP Contributor
Are you passionate about Moroccan rap and eager to share your talents with the world? Whether you're a skilled writer or journalist, a visual storyteller with a camera, a talented graphic designer or illustrator, or an expert in any of the areas mentioned in this issue—we encourage you to get in touch!
Share your unique perspective and contribute to the growth of Moroccan hip hop. Send a sample of your work to contributor@dimatopmagazine.com
We can't wait to hear from you!
Become a DimaTOP Contributor
Are you passionate about Moroccan rap and eager to share your talents with the world? Whether you're a skilled writer or journalist, a visual storyteller with a camera, a talented graphic designer or illustrator, or an expert in any of the areas mentioned in this issue—we encourage you to get in touch!
Share your unique perspective and contribute to the growth of Moroccan hip hop. Send a sample of your work to contributor@dimatopmagazine.com
We can't wait to hear from you!
