Mutiat Yewande Isola, known professionally as Anike (formerly known as Wande), is a Nigerian-American rapper, actress, and former journalist. Born on March 4, 1996, in Nigeria, she was raised in Austin, Texas, U.S. Anike is celebrated for her groundbreaking contributions to Christian music, particularly as the first female rapper to achieve major commercial success in the genre. Her music uniquely blends Christian hip-hop, trap gospel, R&B, and pop, often incorporating both English and Yoruba lyrics. She announced her name change from Wande to Anike in 2024, stating that Anike, a Yoruba name meaning “someone you cherish, care for, love, and don’t take for granted,” better reflects her faith and new chapter in life.
Anike is signed to Reach Records, a prominent independent Christian hip-hop label, and has also released music under Anike Sounds. She is the first woman signed to Reach Records and has been featured on GRAMMY-nominated projects and Billboard’s #1 album “The Mav Way.” Beyond her music, Anike leverages her platform for comedic content, life talks, and to empower women in their spiritual journey. She married Darius Dees in the spring of 2022.
