‘Chapter X’ is everything a pop dynasty needs: its title is a fitting allusion to Mavin Records’ ten years in existence, it has great contributions from the entire team, and most crucially it seemed to open up new possibilities for the label in terms of how its sonic philosophy was established. Just like Motown and Bad Boy Records had done during distinct eras in the American pop scene, the hypnotic, percussion-based direction of Don Jazzy and his team demonstrated a continued zeal to remain at the zenith of conversations regarding Nigerian pop. 

While the album had obvious records with hit potential such as “Amina” and “Won Le Le”, it is track seven which holds up a tender light to the blazing efforts of the crew. Emo-related themes have made a brazen entry into the centre of pop music, and among the reasons for that brand of existentialism, the failings of a romantic affair ranks high. “Losing You” affords the otherwise hyperrealist pomp to settle, and gives the trio of Johnny Drille, Crayon and Magixx ample space to conjure a lovelorn record while showcasing the merits of their vocal ability. 

 

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In the record’s opening moments, there’s a bare feeling permeating through the Andre Vibez production. Shiny keys and a faint touch of percussion work to create the soundscape, a novel touch in a project full of more-realised sonic choices. It’s however the perfect terrain for the artists’ sensitivity to emerge, and here it’s Johnny Drille who kicks things off. Known for his exuberance and piety in matters of love, he unfurls affectionate lyrics about feeling hard done by a woman he’s in love with. He’s obviously in character, but the emotion doesn’t relay distance as much as it does loneliness, evoking the image of someone sitting by the window and gazing downwards, melancholy being the dominant atmosphere. 

Johnny’s increasingly aware grasp of linguistic nuances are also present, as he starts off his verse with “You see the numbers don’t lie, I’ve dedicated my time” and as he moves further into the dark sea of unrequited love, laments in the most heartbreaking way, “I fit to mental wallahi, abi to love sef na crime?/ Shey until I fall down and die, you’re my moonlight in the night”. The sentimental poetry is retained in the hook as the singer bemoans the lack of affectation he’s been getting recently from his lover, the line which carries the most tension being, “But you don’t look at me, the way you used to baby.” 

 

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It’s usually said that the eyes don’t lie. That simplicity perhaps doesn’t adequately describe the shifting nuances with lovers, but it’s the gift of music to render an enduring touch to any subject, if done right. On his part, Crayon’s sunny disposition works to lighten the melancholy of Johnny’s verse, as he tries to paint naysayers as enemies who’d do anything to end their relationship. “Me I no go let dem o,” he sings twice for emphasis, and afterwards, asking, “Wetin be the problem, me I go work am o”. When the chorus comes in, there’s a newer intensity which lights up its seams, achieved through the multiplicity of vocals. 

Magixx makes the song come fully alive while striking out the final note, a skill that’s made possible by the remarkable depth in his vocals. A mix between Johnny Drille’s cool husk and Crayon’s warm lulls, Magixx is instantly present. The odd metaphor familiar amongst the more inventive Afropop writers is present here (“My girl, my eye don clean like promo”), the humour-laced admission which usually follows up (“I been dey doubt you before like a promo”) and some lines afterwards, takes a deep breather as he admits of not being able to explain his feelings, a vulnerable position which highlights the charm of this record. 

In all, the chemistry here is distinct and audibly increases the listening quality. Cut from the familiar terrain of R&B, “Losing You” manages its Nigerian context without losing sight of broader influences. Hearing it play outside a street in Manchester wouldn’t sound of place, just as much as listening to it from a radio on a quiet Lagos evening wouldn’t. Possessing beauty and design in equal measure, it’s a standout of ‘Chapter X’ and a thrilling showcase of the range Mavins currently boasts. A super squad in many ways than one.