Born to Ghanaian parents in the economically strained Athenian district of Ampelokipoi and raised in the neglected Kypseli neighborhood, Negros Tou Moria—real name Kofi Ansong, also known as Black Morris—found his voice in Greek rap alongside the iconic
In the vibrant yet challenging landscape of Athens, Kofi Ansong, known to his fans as Negros Tou Moria or Black Morris, has emerged as a powerful voice in Greek hip-hop. Born to Ghanaian parents in the economically strained district of Ampelokipoi and raised in the neglected neighborhood of Kypseli, his journey is a testament to resilience and creativity. Through his music, he confronts the socio-economic struggles faced by many in Greece, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, using hip-hop as a platform for expression and activism.
Since his debut in 2012 with a mixtape that showcased his unique style, NTM has carved out a niche in the Greek music scene. His record label, Stay Independent, has been instrumental in his artistic development, allowing him to explore and refine his sound. His talent was recognized early on when he earned the Best New Artist title at the Thessaloniki Hip Hop Festival in 2014. By 2018, he released his second album, H.E.A.L.T.H. (How Economy And Love Tortured Humanity), which further solidified his position as a leading figure in the genre.
As Greece grapples with a rise in far-right rhetoric and xenophobia, NTM stands out among a growing number of migrant artists in Athens who use hip-hop to challenge injustice. Alongside artists like Kareem Kalokoh and the ATH Kids crew, who deliver English lyrics over booming trap beats, and Greek-Nigerian Moose, who embodies the vibrant spirit of Kypseli, NTM has forged a distinctive path by primarily rapping in Greek. His commitment to his heritage and the Greek language allows him to connect deeply with his audience while addressing pressing social issues.
NTM’s innovative sound is a genre he calls “trabetiko,” a fusion of rebetiko—Greece’s soulful folk music rooted in the struggles of the working class—and the modern beats of trap. This blending of styles is evident in his latest album, Mavri Ellada (Black Greece), where he showcases his evolution as an artist. The album marks a departure from the melodic flow of his earlier work, embracing a commanding, gravelly baritone that reflects his growth as a second-generation Greek. His choice of attire, often featuring traditional tsarouchia shoes or a fustanella skirt, further emphasizes his cultural roots and the blending of identities that defines his music.
The sonic landscape of Mavri Ellada is diverse and expansive. Tracks like Euthinofovos resonate with G-funk vibes, while An Einai Dinaton pulsates with Afrobeats, and PragmatiKotita ignites the dancefloor with synth-heavy production. NTM’s voice is the anchor throughout, shifting from smooth and introspective on Euthinofovos to sharp and urgent on PragmatiKotita, where heavy kicks drive the rhythm. His lyrical content is equally compelling, as he tackles themes of police encounters and societal challenges. The track Oneiro, for instance, cleverly pairs a sample from a 1950s Greek film with a punishing beat, illustrating the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities.
With Mavri Ellada, NTM boldly confronts the xenophobia and economic hardships that plague many in Greece. His music serves as a powerful testament to identity, resilience, and the struggle for recognition in a society that often overlooks the contributions of immigrants. Through his art, he not only amplifies his own voice but also those of countless others who share similar experiences, making a significant impact on the cultural landscape of Athens and beyond.
For those interested in following NTM’s journey and exploring his music, you can find him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackmorris37/?hl=en.
Source: The Guardian
