Scepticism is a common emotion when moon signs and sun signs are being discussed, but over the past couple of years, young people have increasingly identified with astrology, even if they are not all way the way accurate, or even realistic. Nonetheless, astrology is one of the most unique ways that urban youth culture and lifestyle expression has evolved.

Last year, one of the standouts off Odunsi The Engine’s much talked about debut was “star signs” a highlife-fused song about women who love astrology. With an Ezi Emela feature, Bella is seeking similar inspirations on “Don’t Trust Geminis”, inverting the feel good theme of last year’s astrology anthem, and tapping into hip-hop and r&b influences.

“Don’t trust Geminis” is the opening track to her latest EP, Summer’s Over, and perhaps the most emotive song on the project. The gemini archetype is that their intentions are hard to read therefore they are presumed to be difficult to trust. Bella uses this stereotype of a two-faced gemini to channel the story of a love gone sour, presumably after her lover showed his darker side. “I really can’t believe I still believe your lies” she sings, emphasising some of the things that have changed since her lover first showed interest.

As young people are navigating emotional life in a hyper-connected world, more afropop songs like “Don’t trust Geminis” are bound to surface. Bella Alubo’s fusion of neo-r&b with a contemporary subject matter provides a glimpse into how these themes will exist in pop culture; either as relatable light-hearted social commentary or as marker of a generation seeking alternative life philosophies.

Featured image credits/IbrahimAdewole

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Tami is a lover of astrology, music and women. Tweet your fave female artistes at her @tamimak_

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Best New Music Score: 7