Even with his western upbringing, Nigerian-American artist Jidenna has never shied off wearing his admiration for Nigeria, and by extension, Africa, on his sleeves. For his upcoming sophomore album, ’85 To Africa’, the rapper/singer has stated that his extended stay in different countries on the continent, last year, plays an integral role in the making of the project. Moving along with the rollout, he follows the double release of “Sufi Woman” and “Tribe”, with two new singles, “Sou Sou” and “Zodi” featuring Afropop superstar Mr Eazi.

Similar to the previous double header, the singles are split between western Trap music aesthetics and overt Afropop influences. On “Sou Sou”, a Trap beat comprising trampoline 808 drums and slinky piano chords, form the bouncy musical bed for Jidenna’s infectiously playful performance, replete with scarcely veiled sexual innuendos. Groovy, mid-tempo Afropop drum synths, clicking percussions and a funky bass guitar riff is the instrumental combination on “Zodi”, jovially scoring the heartfelt sentiments Jidenna and Mr Eazi express to their love interest.

’85 To Africa’ drops on August 23rd. You can listen to “Sou Sou” and “Zodi” below while we wait on a pre-order link for the album.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/Jidenna

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Dennis is not an interesting person. Tweet Your Favourite Playboi Carti Songs at him @dennisadepeter

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