Bilal Shaikh, popularly known by his stage name Emiway Bantai, is an Indian rapper, singer, songwriter, and YouTuber who rose to fame through his unique musical style and independent career. Born on November 13, 1995, in Bengaluru, Karnataka, Emiway has become one of the most influential voices in Indian hip-hop.
He is best known for his hit tracks like Aur Bantai, Asli Hip Hop, and Machayenge. A self-made artist, Emiway has captivated audiences with his lyrical prowess, infectious beats, and unmatched energy.
In this article, we will explore in-depth details about Emiway Bantai, including his age, height, career, net worth, family, relationships, physical appearance, and lesser-known facts.
Emiway Bantai Short Details
| Full Name | Bilal Shaikh |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Emiway Bantai |
| Profession | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, YouTuber |
| Date of Birth | November 13, 1995 |
| Age | 29 Years (as of 2024) |
| Hometown | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Residence | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Height | 5’ 7” (170 cm) |
| Weight | 70 kg (154 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
Early Life and Career
Emiway Bantai grew up in a middle-class Muslim family. Initially aspiring to become a doctor, his life took a turn when he discovered Eminem’s song “Not Afraid” during his 10th grade. Inspired by Eminem and other global hip-hop icons, he began rapping in English and launched his career with the English track Glint Lock in 2013.
Realizing the need to connect with a larger audience, Emiway transitioned to Hindi rap on the advice of his father. His breakthrough came with the 2014 track Aur Bantai, which resonated with Indian audiences and showcased his potential as a rapper.
From performing at local gigs to becoming a YouTube sensation, Emiway’s journey has been extraordinary. His hit tracks like Machayenge and Dhyan De have amassed millions of views, solidifying his position as one of India’s top independent artists. In 2019, he gained further recognition with his appearance in Zoya Akhtar’s Bollywood film Gully Boy and his track Asli Hip Hop, celebrating the underground rap scene.
Family and Relationships
Although Emiway Bantai hails from a non-musical family, his parents have supported his passion for music. He credits his father for advising him to rap in Hindi, which became a turning point in his career.
| Family Member | Role |
|---|---|
| Father | Bilal Shaikh |
| Mother | Name not disclosed |
| Siblings | Not Known |
| Spouse | Rumored relationship with Swaalina |
Physical Appearance
Emiway Bantai is known for his unique style and energetic stage presence.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’ 7” (170 cm) |
| Weight | 70 kg (154 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Distinguishing Features | Bespectacled, often seen in casual streetwear |
Net Worth and Income Sources
Emiway Bantai’s primary income comes from music sales, YouTube, live performances, and endorsements. He also owns a music studio named “Bantai The Studio.”
| Net Worth | Not officially disclosed |
|---|---|
| Primary Income | Music Sales, YouTube Revenue |
| Other Sources | Live Performances, Endorsements |
Lesser-Known Facts About Emiway Bantai
- Emiway’s stage name is a blend of Eminem and Lil Wayne (Emi + Way).
- Before fame, he worked as a helper at Hard Rock Cafe to fund his music career.
- He was part of a diss war with rapper Raftaar, which gained massive attention in the Indian rap community.
- His song Aur Bantai was one of India’s first Hindi rap hits.
- He won the Best Hip-Hop Artist (People’s Choice) at the Radio City Freedom Awards for three consecutive years (2017–2019).
- Emiway has performed as a supporting act for international rapper Wiz Khalifa during his India tour in 2019.
- Despite his fame, he remains independent, rejecting offers from music labels to retain creative freedom.
FAQs
- Q: What is Emiway Bantai’s debut track?
A: His debut track was “Glint Lock,” released in 2013. - Q: What inspired Emiway Bantai to start rapping?
A: He was inspired by Eminem’s song “Not Afraid.” - Q: Is Emiway Bantai signed to any record label?
A: No, Emiway remains an independent artist. - Q: Has Emiway Bantai won any awards?
A: Yes, he won the Best Hip-Hop Artist (People’s Choice) Award at Radio City Freedom Awards (2017-2019).
Conclusion
Emiway Bantai is a shining example of what passion, hard work, and independence can achieve. From humble beginnings to becoming India’s leading hip-hop artist, Emiway has carved a niche for himself in the global music scene. His dedication to staying true to his roots while pushing boundaries continues to inspire millions.
NOTE: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to verify details independently from reliable sources.
