In the tapestry of contemporary Nigerian music, Adekunle Gold has distinguished himself with the most seamless of transitions that have yielded plenty of dividends. His pivot from graphic artist to music artist birthed the 2014 smash hit “Sade” (a cover of One Direction’s “Story of My Life”) and secured him a recording deal with the Olamide-led YBNL. With his debut album ‘Gold,’ he donned the apparel of an urban highlife musician and by his 2018 project ‘About 30,’ he had started incorporating more elements into his sonics—heralded by the electronic underpinnings of 2017’s “Call on Me.” 

Adekunle Gold’s eventual rebirth as an Afropop star was built off the back of his 2020 album ‘Afro Pop, Vol. 1,’ which saw a complete recalibration in his sonics as well as his fashion style. Where was once home to only Highlife grooves embraced other African and Western influences, and where was once a low fade haircut and a clean cheek became braids and beard. Sonically, Gold’s new phase—that he christened AG Baby—is the strongest he has ever been, entering mainstream spaces with a swagger while still retaining the core of his music: speaking to the hearts and minds of his listeners.

On his latest three-track offering ‘Tio Tequila’, Adekunle Gold furthers the lavishness and flamboyance of his current status. Led by the already released hit single “Party No Dey Stop,” which features Zinoleesky, Gold, who is currently at work on his fifth album, shares a peek into his headspace: he’s at peace, comfortable and still keen on hitting new levels of artistry. “Can’t believe this is my life/Everything come align,” he sings. 

All three tracks on ‘Tio Tequila’ are produced by Nigerian record producer and artist Kel-P, furthering a synergy that’s been on display since 2022’s “5 Star.” They’ve carried that relationship into the short project’s other two tracks, “Do You Mind” and “Omo Eko.” “Do you mind/Do you like it/On the bonnet of McLaren/Give me sign/No surprises/I fire shots, no warning,” Adekunle Gold sings on the uptempo tune “Do You Mind,” boasting about his sexual and financial prowess. “Omo Eko” also bounces with high energy as Gold prides himself as a true native of Lagos, one of Africa’s most populous cities. 

Adekunle Gold has cultivated a global appeal around his brand, headlining shows in the UK, the US and Canada, as well appearing on platforms such as NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Concerts. In March, Gold signed with Def Jam Recordings to expand the reach of his brand. “They break artists, and they have niche, unique artists like me, so I think it’s the right move for me,” he told Billboard. Over the years, Adekunle Gold has collaborated with some of the biggest acts in the world, including Davido, Ty Dolla $ign, Fatoumata Diawara and Lucky Daye, among others.

With ‘Tio Tequila,’ Adekunle Gold sets the foundation for his forthcoming album and reminds audiences of the ethos of his musicianship. Also, his collaboration with Kel-P highlights a working relationship that is built on great sounds, and whose influence will be further experienced in the coming album. 

Stream ‘Tio Tequila’ below.

ICYMI: THE AWE-INSPIRING EVOLUTION OF ADEKUNLE GOLD