Possessing one of the most recognisable voices in Nigerian pop, BOJ has always been something of a hometown icon. Since his manifesto track “BOTM” he has continued to blur the boundaries between alternative music and the mainstream, collaborating with artists as varied as Joey B, Teni and Dave. One-third of alté pioneers DRB Lasgidi, BOJ has mastered the act of strengthening his legacy while charting a path for the future.

In terms of new releases, he’s been typically forthcoming with music. Last month he released the laid back “Culture”, crooning over a Juls trademark production alongside British-Nigerian rapper Enny, who delivered a sleek verse. Over the last few days, BOJ again entered headline conversations after information on his forthcoming album, ‘Gbagada Express’, was announced, a number of big features stoking excitement for the expected April 22 release date.

 

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To accelerate the journey to BOJ season, a new song has been released. “In A Loop” features the talented Ghanaian-American sister duo of Moliy and Mellissa, both having imprinted their style on a number of collaborations within the alté scene. Here they form sensual reverberations around the interstellar swing of the beat, singing of a relationship and how it’s supposed to go. Mellissa’s luminous vocals are especially affecting, taking the hook in typical energy. “Nobody gonna win this game,” she sings, underscoring the romantic tension which vivifies the record. 

Like the perfect host, BOJ lingers in the background, layering his husky voice in important spaces. His opening verse is bright, coasting on the beat with the assurance he projects in its lyrics. “Every story’s got two sides,” he eventually concedes somewhere deep in the mix, as the percussion and shimmering keys build around his vocals. 

“In A Loop” is another strong indicator of the musical direction for ‘Gbagada Express’, where BOJ commingles his distinct voice with an array of guest voices, elevating his collaborators while remaining the centre of gravity. Alongside previous drops like the Mr Eazi and Davido-assisted “Abracadabra” and “Money & Laughter” with Zamir and Amaarae, this new single sets an expectant tone for BOJ’s first solo project in nearly five years.

Listen to “In A Loop” here.

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