Being Nigerian can be a tough pill to swallow when you think about the hardships in the country and the awful stereotypes foreigners form of us as a result. The entertainment sector, however, seems like the only positive thing about the country with artists representing the nation proudly. DRB’s latest single, “Based On”, continues the streak of good media promotion for the country through music as the trio perform a tribute to the tenacious spirit of Nigerians.
GMK produces a laidback beat for “Based On”, setting a mid-tempo groove with a mix of synth harmonies, percussion and a bouncy drum riff. Fresh L’s opening rap verse portrays the harsh realities on the streets and how it inspires him to work harder, but the hook BOJ and Teezee perform retains the lightweight allure of mainstream Nigerian pop music with familiar and repetitive lyrics that retain the song’s theme; “Based on kpakpakpakpa/ The girls dem yapapapa/ They say Nigeria jaga jaga/ But I still dey scatter scatter”. Teezee’s closing verse also celebrates the opportunities that exist within the country as if to encourage listeners not to give up on their dreams.
Stream DRB’s “Based On” below.
Featured Image Credits: Instagram/bojonthemicrophone
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him@debola_abimbolu
Netflix’s foray into the Nollywood scene is in full effect. In addition to acquiring Genevieve Nnaji’s directorial debut, “Lionheart”, as its first original movie from Nigeria, the streaming giant is expanding its Nollywood catalogue. In the last month, six Kunle Afolayan-directed films and three blockbuster films from FilmOne Productions—“The Wedding Party 2”, “Merry Men” and “King Of Boys”—have been made available for international viewing on Netflix.
Joining the growing list is “UpNorth”, a successful film that made its nationwide theatrical release last December. Via a Twitter thread, script co-writer and CEO of co-production company Anakle Films, Editi Effiong announced that “Up North” would make its Netflix debut on October 18.
The Tope Oshin-directed film follows Bassey Otuekong, heir apparent and son to a billionaire, going through life-changing experiences during his NYSC year in Bauchi state. It features popular actors like Olubankole Wellington (Banky W), Rahama Sadau, Kanayo O. Kanayo and Adesuwa Etomi Wellington, with a notable cameo from then-Governor of Bauchi state, Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar.
With its innately Nigerian setting, the acquisition of “Up North” continues Netflix’s quest to showcase compelling stories made in Nigeria, to global audiences.
Featured Image Credits: Twitter/EditiEffiong
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
Dennis is not an interesting person. Tweet Your Favourite Playboi Carti Songs at him @dennisadepeter
The Nigerian music industry has had its fair share of manager/artist disputes over the last couple of years. But just weeks after YCee called out his former label for taking advantage of naive artists through unfair contracts, Runtown is coming out to resolve his own dispute with former boss, Okwudili Umenyiora, owner of the Eric Many label that helped put him in the limelight.
Runtown signed with Eric Many in 2014 and dropped his commercially acclaimed debut project, ‘Ghetto University’, the following year. However, the successful partnership turned sour in 2016 when Runtown accused the label of threatening his life after he tried to terminate his contract with them. The dispute kept on escalating with several accusations being thrown around until court injunctions had to be taken for sanity to be restored.
Though Runtown already set up his own label, Sound God Music Group, in 2018, the legal battle was only concluded in January of 2019 when the court ruled in favour of the artist. As a result, he was able to release his latest EP, ‘Tradition’, without any label drama hanging over his head. The media attention for ‘Tradition’ hasn’t been as hyped as previous projects, but Runtown doesn’t seem too bothered. In the spirit of the October 1st festivities, the “Mad Over You” singer shared gratitude for his life on his Twitter account and even issued a statement apologizing for his harsh words against his former label boss.
The positive message from the singer is heartwarming to see, but with Okwudili Umenyiora’s hesitance to come forward with a response to the apology, one has to wonder if winning the court case is what gives Runtown the benevolence to extend the olive branch first.
Featured Image Credits: Instagram/Runtown
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him@debola_abimbolu
A couple of important things have happened since Wale released his last album, ‘Shine’. The rapper released three well-received, back-to-basics EPs in 2018—‘It’s Complicated’, ‘Self Promotion’ and ‘Free Lunch’—and signed a new record deal with Warner Records. Capping this run of form, he’s getting ready to release his sixth studio album, ‘Wow… That’s Crazy’.
Slated for release next Friday, October 11th, the album will contain 15 songs, including pre-released singles “Black Bonnie” with R&B singer Jacquees, “Poledancer” featuring Megan Thee Stallion, “Bgm”, and his Jeremih-assisted sleeper hit, “On Chill”. The star-studded project also contains guest appearances from Ari Lennox, 6lack, Boogie, Bryson Tiller, Lil Durk and Kelly Price.
Continuing with the album rollout, he recently dropped a new single, “Love & Loyalty” featuring Nigerian-born, Maryland-based singer Mannywellz. Produced by Sango, the song is bedded by vintage music guitars and vibrant drums.
With romance-inclined intentions, both artists perform a cheery set to convince their love interest of their unwavering commitment. Mannywellz sings the pre-chorus and part of the hook in his rustic tenor, while Wale delivers two self-assured rap verses and also sings part of the hook.
Stream “Loyalty & Love” and pre-add ‘Wow… That’s Crazy’ via Apple Music below.
Featured Image Credits: Instagram/Wale
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
Dennis is not an interesting person. Tweet Your Favourite Playboi Carti Songs at him @dennisadepeter
Earlier this year, Genevieve Nnaji’s directorial debut, “Lionheart” made history as the first film produced in Nigeria to be acquired by visual streaming giant, Netflix. Initially premiered at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival, the film was officially acquired by Netflix in September last year, and released for international viewing on January 4th, 2019, after its brief theatrical release in Nigeria a few weeks prior.
Looking to make more history, “Lionheart” has been selected by the Nigerian Oscars Selection Committee (NOSC) as the country’s submission for Best International Feature Film category at the 2020 Oscars.
Expressing confidence in their selection, Chairman of the NOSC, Chineze Anyaene says, “While we cannot say that what we have are the best Nigeria is capable of producing, it is heart-lifting to know that, from the strength of the entries received this year, we are ready for the Oscars”
Everyone knows that The Oscars are the most prestigious award event in film-making. Formerly Best Foreign Language Film, the Best International Feature Film has been awarded every year since 1947. For next year’s Academy Awards ceremony, over 80 national Oscar bodies have sent in their submissions, which will be shortlisted into ten finalists in December and five official nominees by January next year.
“Lionheart” joins a remarkable list of submissions that includes “Atlantique” by Senegalese filmmaker Mati Diop, and “Parasite” by South Korean director Bong Joon-ho, both of which won the top prizes at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. Upon release, “Lionheart” was well-received by international critics for being a timely and universally relatable film, thanks to a strong Woman lead—Genevieve plays the central role of Adaeze Obiagu—and its heartwarming emphasis on family. Fingers crossed that the goodwill lands the film a highly coveted Oscar nod, and possibly a win.
Featured Image Credits: Instagram/lionheartthemovie
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
Dennis is not an interesting person. Tweet Your Favourite Playboi Carti Songs at him @dennisadepeter
If you haven’t binge watched all the episodes of Neflix Original, Top Boy, we’re here to assure you that you’re not spending your time wisely. The hard-hitting drama, centred around the lives of London drug dealers and street gangs first hit our screens in 2011, running for two series on Channel 4 before it got cancelled in 2013.
Thanks to Drake and Netflix, we have a Top Boy revival today, with British-Nigerian artists Little Simz, Dave and many others amongst the cast. Now, after a three year break, the hit Netflix series returns to Netflix for a second season this March.
The first season which premiered on Netflix back in 2019 and follows original the Top Boy, Dushane’s return to London as he aims to reclaim his position in the UK drug market. He links up with his old partner Sully (played by Kano) who is also returning home after a prison spell.
Upon their return, they bump heads with Jamie (Micheal Ward), a ruthless yet smart and calculated young gang leader, whose rise to the top saw him usurp the position of the former Top Boy, Modie. Dave brilliantly portrays the show’s villain Modie (picture above), while other actors of Nigerian descent also add their magic to the shows’ success.
So if we haven’t convinced you enough with the storyline and the fact that Drake is the show’s Executive Producer, it might interest you to know about each actor of Nigerian descent on the show, and the role they play in the fantastic series!
Dave – Modie
Dave does a great job in his portrayal of this season’s villain, Modie. Unhinged and reckless, Modie is feared by all throughout the season, even in his absence. After getting locked up for 18 years, his power is seemingly relinquished to the season’s protagonist, Jamie.
There are several fan theories that Modie is a grown up version of Ra’Nell, a beloved schoolboy from Top Boy Season 1 & 2. Dave leans into this by rapping “I used to be Ra’Nell, I never had a score” on his self-produced addition to the Top Boy soundtrack, “GOD’S EYE“, and given the show’s premise of young boys being inducted to a lifetime of crime, it’s no far cry!
Little Simz – Shelley
Rapper Little Simz plays new character, Shelley who becomes main character Dushane’s love interest. She acts as his voice of reason throughout the season, and like a true Yoruba girl, is not afraid to call him out on his bullshit, even though she knows he’s a murderous drug dealer who could end her life at any point!
Hope Ikpoku Jr – Aaron & Araloyin Osunyemi – Stefan
The season’s protagonist, Jamie, is decorated by his younger brothers, Aaron and Stefan, who are both portrayed by Nigerian actors, Hope Ikpoku and Araloyin Osunyemi. After losing their parents to terminal illnesses, an 18-year-old Jamie was forced to step up in order to provide a good life for his younger brothers.
While he takes a less than ideal route to ensure this, he shelters his brothers from his life of crime by making sure they’re on a straight path. Hope plays Aaron, a university student who is resistant to his older brother’s authority, while Araloyin plays Stefan, a thoughtful little boy who steps in for a friend in need, much to his brother’s detriment.
L-R Hope Ikpoku as Aaron, Michael Ward as Jamie, Araloyin Osunyemi as Stefan
Kola Bokinni – Leyton
With Modie in prison, Leyton steps up as his number 2, posing a threat to Jamie’s plans to usurp the position of Top Boy. Kola Bokinni, who has also starred in Black Mirror plays Leyton, who stays loyal to Modie and defies Jamie’s instructions.
At the beginning of the series, Ats’ mother, Amma was paid a visit by immigration officials, who suspect she’s in the country illegally. With no income and unable to claim benefits, Amma struggled to pay the rent and provide for Ats, who takes matters into his own hands and goes down a dark and familiar path.
Featured Image Credits: Instagram/Netflix/TopBoyNetflix
Chillz debuted his ‘Good Vibes, Vol 1’ earlier this year, but before the project dropped, he already cemented his place as an elite Afropop act, featuring on M.I’s ‘Rendezvous’ playlist album and producing Headies nominated tracks from Falz’s ‘Moral Instructions’ project. He just released the Tshsz Nelson-directed music video for “Chop Life”, one of the standout tracks from the feel-good project and it shows him living the life of a celebrity on vacation.
Beyonce’s Afropop influenced album, ‘The Lion King: The Gift’, didn’t have the crossover impact some fans hoped for, but it offered the featured Nigerian acts a plaque to add to their bag of international collaborations. Stormzy just flipped the project’s standout, “Brown Skin Girl”, for his set at the BBC Live Lounge featuring Stalk Ashley, a live band and backing choir. The 3-minute long clip captures him delivering heartfelt rap bars, showing his appreciation for women over the live music.
Djaji Prime – “Darkness in the Light (Freeverse)”
Djaji Prime’s music video debut, “Darkness in the Light”, highlights the psychedelic world the young rapper imagines on his songs. “Darkness in the Light” finds him exploring the strife of his anxieties and the therapeutic activities that help him deal with the stress. The music video features clips of him smoking a blunt while cuts of scenes from animes and psychedelic edits add more character and wistfulness to the song.
Big Sean – “Bezerk” Feat. A$AP Ferg
Big Sean is gearing to release his 5th studio album, following 2017’s platinum-selling ‘I Decided’. He debuted new single, “Bezerk” featuring A$AP Ferg last month but has only recently brought the song to life in a Mike Carson-directed music video which opens with the duo at a liquor store where a young girl throws a pink grenade at them and sets them off to a wild and crazy adventure. The track’s producer, Hit-boy later joins them as they surf through the streets on a carpet while being chased by giant wind-up teeth till the closing scene where they perform to a massive crowd from inside a hot air balloon.
Eri Ife – “Dear Future Wife”
Eri Ife has proven the romantic depths of his pen game on songs like Jinmi Abdul assisted “Everything” but he takes his emotive intents even further with the music video for his latest single, “Dear Future Wife”. Mex film directs the video following the folky singer and his love interest through their googly-eyed romantic lives as the video leads to a satisfying small wedding ceremony between the couple.
“Birds of Prey” Trailer
Margot Robbie’s outstanding performance as the Joker obsessed Harley Quinn in the DC Extended Universe’s “Suicide Squad” has earned the character her own spin-off which is reportedly being developed into a trilogy of films. The trailer for the first of the series, “Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of Harley Quinn)”, has been released and it seems fans can prepare for more R-rated Harley-centric fun as she tries to move on after her breakup with Joker. Along with her newfound friends, Black Canary, Huntress and detective Renee Montoya, to save Cassandra Cain (one of several characters who took on the role of Batgirl in DC’s comics) from Black Mask, a ruthless crime lord who operates out of Gotham City. Though the film is a part of the DCEU, none of the other DC heroes will feature in the film.
Featured Image Credits: YouTube/Warner Bros. Pictures
You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him@debola_abimbolu
Over the years, the Headies has built up enough prestige to claim to be Nigeria’s most respected music award show, regardless of the inconsistencies. The organisers have now detailed its upcoming 13th edition, slated for October 19, themed ‘The Power of a Dream’. Similarly to the previous edition in May 2018, this year’s award eligibility covers an 18-month span, from January 2018 to June 2019.
Yesterday, nominations were announced, with Burna Boy leading the pack of nominations with eight nods. Coming in the midst of a fantastic run, Burna’s multiple nominations — Artist Of The Year, Album Of The Year and Song Of The Year— are a trite reminder of his omnipresence in Afropop.
In affiliation, Phantom and Kel P pick up Producer Of The Year nominations, for their work on “YE” and “Killin’ Dem” respectively, while the video for “Dangote” earns Clarence Peters one of his two nominations for Best Music Video.
Following Burna Boy, 2018 breakout star Teni picks up six nominations, including Song Of The Year, Best Vocal Performance and Best R&B Song for “Uy0 Meyo”. Joining the list of multiple nominees, Wizkid and Falz get five nods, Adekunle Gold, Joeboy and Fireboy DML pick up four nods each, while Tiwa Savage, WurlD, Victor AD, Zlatan and Odunsi (The Engine) all have three nominations.
Check out the full list of nominations below.
BEST RECORDING OF THE YEAR
Adekunle Gold – “Ire”
Patoranking – “Heal D World”
Brymo – “Olanrewaju”
Teni – “Uyo Meyo”
Burna Boy – “YE”
BEST POP SINGLE
Burna Boy – “YE”
Victor AD – “Wetin We Gain”
Starboy ft Duncan Mighty, Wizkid – “Fake Love”
Teni – “Case”
Fireboy DML – “Jealous”
Joeboy – “Baby”
PRODUCER OF THE YEAR
Phantom – “Ye” by Burna Boy
Ozedikus – “Dumebi” by Rema
Spellz – “Askamaya” by Teni
Killertunes – “Fake Love” by Starboy ft Duncan Mighty and Wizkid
Kel-P Vibes – “Killing Dem” by Burna Boy ft Zlatan
BEST RAP ALBUM
Falz – ‘Moral Instruction’
A-Q & Loose Kaynon – ‘Crown’
M.I Abaga– ‘A Study On Self Worth: YxngDxnzl’
Show Dem Camp – ‘Clone Wars, Vol. IV (These Buhari Times)’
BEST R&B/POP ALBUM
Odunsi (The Engine) – ‘rare.’
Burna Boy – ‘Outside’
Kizz Daniel – ‘No Bad Songz’
Mayorkun – ‘Mayor of Lagos’
Adekunle Gold – ‘About 30’
BEST MUSIC VIDEO
“Dangote” (BurnaBoy) – Clarence Peters
“Available” (Patoranking) – Clarence Peters
“Ire” (Adekunle Gold) – Aje Films
“Talk” (Falz) – Prodigeezy
“Jaiye” (Ladipoe) – 88 Factor
BEST R&B SINGLE
Odunsi ft. RAYE – “Tipsy”
Funbi – “Serenade”
Teni – “Uyo Meyo”
Wurld – “Wishes and Butterflies”
Seyi Shay ft. Runtown – “Gimme Love”
BEST COLLABO
Reekado Banks Ft. Tiwa Savage, Fiokee – “Like”
Kizz Daniel ft. Davido – “One Ticket”
Starboy ft Duncan Mighty, Wizkid – “Fake Love”
Burna Boy Ft. Zlatan – “Killin’ Dem”
2baba Ft. Peruzzi – “Amaka”
BEST RAP SINGLE
Falz – “Talk”
Hotyce – “We Don’t Do That Over Here”
Illbliss ft. Olamide – “40ft Container”
Payper Corleone Ft. Alpha Ojini – “Sacrifice”
AQ and Loose Kaynon – “Gang Gang”
BEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE(MALE)
Tay Iwar – “Utero”
Johnny Drille – “Finding Efe”
Nonso Bassey – “411”
Funbi – “Serenade”
Wurld – “Wishes & Butterfly”
BEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE (FEMALE)
GoodGirl LA – ‘Bless me’
Waje – “Udue”
Teni – “Uyo Meyo”
Tems – “Mr Rebel”
Falana – “Repeat”
NEXT RATED
Rema
Joeboy
Fireboy DML
Victor AD
Lyta
Zlatan
HIP HOP WORLD REVELATION
Odunsi
Mayorkun
Wurld
Humblesmith
LYRICIST ON THE ROLL
YCEE – “Balance”
Boogey – “Implode”
Paybac – “Implode”
Ghost – “Crown”
Tec – “Crown”
A-Q – “Crown”
BEST STREET-HOP ARTISTE
Erigga – “Motivation”
Chinko Ekun – “Able God”
Zlatan – “Leg Work”
Barry Jhay – “Aiye”
Lyta – “Time”
BEST ‘ALTERNATIVE’ SONG
Lady Donli – “Cash”
Tems – “Mr Rebel”
Johnny Drille – “Finding Efe”
Brymo – “Heya”
Adekunle Gold – “Ire”
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Adekunle Gold – ‘About 30’
Burna Boy – ‘Outside’
Falz – ‘Moral Instruction’
Kizz Daniel – ‘No Bad Songz’
ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
Burna Boy
Wizkid
Davido
Tiwa Savage
Falz
SONG OF THE YEAR
Burna Boy – “Ye”
Rema – “Dumebi”
Victor AD – “Wetin We Gain”
Starboy ft Duncan Mighty, Wizkid – “Fake Love”
Teni – “Case”
Zlatan– “Leg work”
Joeboy – “Baby”
Fireboy DML – “Jealous”
AFRICAN ARTISTE RECOGNITION
Master KG – “Skeleton Moves” (SOUTH AFRICA)
Afro B – “Drogba (Joanna)” (IVORY COAST)
Sauti Sol – “Melanin” (KENYA)
King Promise – “CCTV” (GHANA)
DJ Maphorisa – “iWalk Ye Phara” (SOUTH AFRICA)
HEADIES’ VIEWER’S CHOICE
Mr Eazi
Burna Boy
Teni
Fireboy DML
Rema
Joe Boy
Wizkid
Davido
BEST PERFORMER
Falz
Tiwa Savage
Brymo
Yemi Alade
Adekunle Gold
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR:
Crayon
Buju
Barry Jhay
Oxlade
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
Paul Okoye (Upfront & Personal)
Featured Image Credits: New York Times/Colours Studio
It is not uncommon for people to seek out their cultural roots, in an attempt to discover more about who they are. At least that’s what Teniola Zaccheaus, more commonly known as Teezee, would tell you if you asked him.
He recounts enduring endless teasing from peers in his younger years, because of his non-traditional Yoruba surname, which led to him being inquisitive about his roots. The answer to this opened him up to a new found knowledge on slave trade and returnee slaves.
His hometown, Lagos, a melting pot of different tribes and cultures, was mostly inhibited by the Yorubas who were one of the many tribes displaced during the transatlantic slave trade in countries such as Brazil.
This birthed Teezee’s interest in the ties between the Yoruba indigenes of his hometown and Brazil; marking the country as one he must visit, to satisfy his desire to seek out his cultural roots. His recent trip to Brazil finally answered some very pressing questions he had. Brazil, he found, is home to a number of Yoruba-infused religions, a remnant of the transatlantic slave trade.
Traditional Yoruba deities—orishas—are almost never talked about in modern day Nigeria, the rise of Christianity and Islam has usurped the traditional pantheism that many of our parents and grandparents grew up with. Now, talk of these deities are met with dismissive remarks as they are dubbed as demonic to the average educated, church-going Nigerian. Yet, there exists across Brazilian cities modern-infused religions such as Candomblé, Haitian voodoo and Santeria which have at their core, Yoruba deities who are revered.
The NATIVE spoke to Teezee about his trip to Brazil and what he learnt about the experience.
NATIVE: What led you to seek out the origin of your surname?
TEEZEE: I knew I was of Yoruba descent but my surname was not the typical Yoruba name. When I was younger, people would make fun of me in school because my surname was English. It was one of my aunties who explained slavery to me, and how a lot of Lagos indigenes have unconventional English names. As I got older, the information I gained made me more inquisitive about the world in general. I developed a curiosity for maps, geography, history and culture.
NATIVE: Tell us more about the modern-infused Yoruba traditions in Brazil?
TEEZEE: I am a Christian but also open-minded, so I looked at my curiosity about orisas more as a study reference to understand the meaning behind certain religions, as opposed to seeking it out for practice. My journey started in Ile-Ife to understand more about the cultural link. In Brazil, I visited Rio and Bahia, which has been dubbed as the spiritual home for Yoruba people outside Nigeria. I learnt that the principal Yoruba deities were Esu, Sango, Ogun, Lemanja; all under the Brazilian religion, Candomblé. It was interesting to see how slavery brought about these religions in Brazil, and I had an urge to understand how local traditions from Africa were still extremely important to the Brazilian culture.
NATIVE: Why do you think this story is a pertinent conversation to have in this day?
TEEZEE: I think we need to talk more about them. Our parents and grandparents are very conventional and unwilling to compromise on traditions and ethics, holding unto antiquated ideas like bride price and respect for elders. I find it weird that they are so into some parts of our culture but are very much against other parts of our culture like these orisas, since they’re are so rich in history to who we are as a people. The Nigerian traditions that are seen as taboo back in our motherland are being openly celebrated in a foreign country and it’s sad we’ve demonised them.
NATIVE: What can we do to redress this cultural erasure?
TEEZEE: We need education. I don’t really see how they will start teaching it in schools and include it into their curriculum yet. But the first step to take will be personal interest in our culture and get involved in independent study. Just know your roots and know where you come from. It is also interesting how many tribes were taken during the transatlantic slave trade but why is it that the Yoruba religion remained long after and mixed well with the religion already in place in Brazil. I think it is a good time to be proud of our history and heritage.
The new trailer for the highly anticipated film directed by Imoh Umoren, ‘The Herbert Macaulay Affair’ was released on yesterday on Independence Day. Set for release on the 25th of October, the movie focuses on the late Herbert Macaulay, who is dubbed the father of Nigerian nationalism and was one of the key figures in Nigeria’s independence from British colonial rule.
The trailer shows lead actor, William Benson who plays the role of Herbert Macaulay, inciting fellow Nigerians to stand up against their oppressors and leads protests in this fashion. The movie release ties in perfectly with the ongoing Independence Day conversations and is pertinent for any Nigerian interested in learning more about their country’s history.
While some fans complain about the seeming lack of lyrical depth on Wizkid’s songs, the Starboy has remained one of the most potent hit markers of our generation. Following his first song of the year “Ghetto Love”, his latest release, “Joro”, carries similarly lightweight themes of romance.
Their music videos, however, tell more compelling stories to suggest there’s more to the songs than what meets the eyes.
The accompanying video for “Joro” features a model who seems to fall under a dancing spell whenever a redlight is shone on her. Wizkid is also seen in the video, performing his sultry lyrics in a candle-lit room that looks like a shrine. Lyrical depth aside, the use of suggestive imageries to depict the hypnotic allure of Wizkid’s music is the truth.
Watch the music video for Wizkid’s “Joro” below.
Featured Image Credits YouTube/Starboy TV
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him@debola_abimbolu
Long before her journey as a celebrity photographer began, TY Bello belonged to a gospel group (K.U.S.H) which broke up and saw each member pursue solo music careers. In 2008, she released her debut album, Greenland, which housed the titular lead single – a song which captures how Nigerians ought to be feeling today.
With strong vocals and fantastic penmanship, TY Bello sings motivational lyrics to the people of the nation, saying that our country is a land of abundance and we should all be hopeful. “The land is green”, she chants in the catchy chorus, and au contraire – due to rife pollution, climate change and the careless attitude of the government and people – the land is in fact not green.
While the message is deeply faith based, it has definitely aged well, and is comforting to listen to in the desolate state of our country today. From SARZ attacks to the news of a serial killer taking lives of women in Port Harcourt, there’s little to celebrate about Nigeria’s 59th year of independence, however, songs like “GREENLAND” are a nice reminder that all will be well.
There are lots of heavy political lessons tucked throughout Burna Boy’s ‘African Gaint’, but “Another Story”, summed up everything wrong with Nigeria. While the country gears towards celebrating 59 years of independence from colonial rule, Burna Boy has taken the opportunity to share the music video for “Another Story”, displaying a graphic depiction of the pain the Nigerian government has caused him and its citizens.
Burna Boy’s knack for channelling the angst of being Nigerian on his songs has made him into a hero, offering anthems everyone can listen to and feel united in the fight for a better living. But “Another Story” explores one of the darker attributes of the Nigerian reality by highlighting the injustice the people have faced from the government. The music video strengths the impact of his emotive sentiments with violent images, seemingly giving commentary on the Biafran war while he’s seen riding on the back of a black horse like one of the ‘Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse’. M.anifest also appears in the music video to perform his rap verse and we see him sitting in traffic which eventually escalates into a violent riot.
Watch the music video for Burna Boy’s “Another Story” below.
Featured Image Credits: YouTube/Burna Boy
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him@debola_abimbolu
The latest release from the Traplanata crew, “Love2Win” by KA$H and Folabi Xan, puts the crew’s violent tendencies on full display. Their trap influences already provided a safe space for their aggressive expressions but the dramatic music video for “Love2Win” draws out the intensity with the gun-blazing direction that plays out as a glimpse into KA$H and Folabi Xan’s chaotic world.
Alexander Dugdale produces the melancholy instrumentals that inspire introspective bars from KA$H and Folabi Xan as they brag and glorify the cocky street lifestyle, “Bygones be bygones; what I preach/ But niggas take a piss and that’s what I’ve seen”. However, the music video John Dierre, KA$H and Folabi Xan co-direct seems to discourage the violent lifestyle with a “You reap what you sow” message displayed at the start of the clip before we watch KA$H get kidnapped and beat up after robbing his opposition.
Watch the music video for “Love2Win” below.
Featured Image Credits: YouTube/KASH-
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him@debola_abimbolu
Even in the singles-based market that permeates the Nigerian music industry, there are artists who have maintained the attention of their audience with their sporadic releases. One of such artists is Lagos-based rapper, MOJO; who has only a handful of singles in his arsenal, following his 2018 romantic debut single, “Sweet” featuring AYLØ and Paula.B and Prettyboy D-O assisted “Chop Life Crew”.
Yesterday, the rapper released a new single, “Shawarma”, a catchy bop which lends itself to the sound of the ongoing music climate, dubbed as ‘two-thousand and gbese’ by Burna Boy.MOJO takes a nonchalant storytelling approach to the DaRe Kasali-produced track, singing “Ese mi o ba le mo”, which roughly translates as “My legs don’t touch the ground” as the rapper playful describes being ‘high’. The song’s title also offers up a double meaning, referring to the shawarma meal but alluding to his use of marijuana.
Released alongside the song is a teaser video directed by Onari and Sabr from Prassrs Collective which shows MOJO surrounded by friends while he attends to customers at a shawarma spot. The group is seen in ‘high’ spirits, busting out their killer zanku moves to the catchy song. We can’t wait to see what he cooks up next.
Naira Marley’s controversy–riddled, rebellious streak has skyrocketed his stock over the course of the year. While his latest release, “Mafo” with perennial hit-maker Young John, is sure to keep him in radio and playlist rotation, the song has a laidback feel like a casual pat on the back from the artist to himself. Frequently interjecting his trademark quips like “inside life”, the lyrics are mostly pastiche, in celebration of the lavish lifestyle he’s been living since he began his hot run. However, his slurred cadence over the rumbling production from Young John and Rexxie keeps the novelty intact.
Adding extra gloss to his loose proclamation, the video Naya Visuals directs shows Naira Marley and Young John decked in eye-catching suits, energetically miming their set in the company of friends, at a mansion. The video also highlights the song’s primary intention to serve dancefloor audiences with models seen dancing to the song.
See Naira Marley & Young John in “Mafo” here.
Featured Image Credits: YouTube/Naira Marley
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
Dennis is not an interesting person. Tweet Your Favourite Playboi Carti Songs at him @dennisadepeter
Genre blending is one of the core values of Nigerian pop music and CapitalTKO has shown his understanding of the sound with his knack for funnelling rap flows and R&B melodies through Afropop’s glossy filter. His latest single, “Feelings”, demonstrates how EDM and Afropop can fully embrace one another as he sings over the catchy beat Soldierbeatz and Reinhard Tega co-produce.
With luminescent synth lines, Afro-house drums and a satisfying drop, “Feelings” captures the mood of carefree dancing before CaptialTKO layers in his romantic themed lyrics, “Baby you should let me love you”. His charming lyrics are not only simple, but they also sound familiar as tributes to the throwback era when R&B songs made for dance clubs. “Feelings” is the newest song in Capital TKO’s rapidly expanding catalogue and it is expected to feature when the 24-year-old artist releases his 14-track ‘The Capital’ album later this year.
Stream “Feelings” by CapitalTKO below.
Featured Image Credits: Instagram/capitaltko
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him@debola_abimbolu
News of Asa’s fourth studio album, ‘Lucid’, began circulating earlier this month and though the 14-song set won’t be available in its entirety till the 11th of October, she keeps building fans’ anticipation with pre-released singles. Her new single, “My Dear” is the third release expect to feature on the project, following the debut of “The Beginning” and “Good Thing” weeks back.
Solely accompanied by sombre piano keys, “My Dear” is gut-wrenching ballad in which Asa stews over being jilted at the altar. Written and achingly sung to capture sentiments of being in the denial phase, she asks if her ex-lover’s absence was caused by Lagos traffic, and questions why he would suddenly change his mind after all the wedding plans they’d excitedly made together. “My Dear” is another example of Asa’s supreme ability to create affecting songs.
The jointly premiered live rendition of the song at Paris’ famed Studios Ferber serves as a makeshift music video for “My Dear”. It features Asa singing her words with a stirring candour, while an assisting pianist recreates the bare musical backing, amplifying the video’s intimate intentions.
Watch Asa perform “My Dear” below.
Featured Image Credits: YouTube/Asa Official
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
Dennis is not an interesting person. Tweet Your Favourite Playboi Carti Songs at him @dennisadepeter
Runtown’s biggest song, “Mad over You”, was influenced by Ghana and he’s getting even more familiar with his West African neighbours as he features on Darkovibes’ new single, “Mike Tyson”. WillisBeatz produces the song’s mid-tempo beat blending the catchy drums of Afropop with synth harmonies and electronic guitar riffs to create a hypnotic backdrop for Darkovibes and Runtown’s confident performance.
While the instrumentals carry the groovy sentiments required of dancehall songs, Darko and Runtown take antagonistic directions with their songwriting, addressing their opposition in their verses. Singing “We dey beat our enemies, Mike Tyson” on the chorus, they channel the boxing legend’s fierceness to threaten their opponents while keeping enough composure to stay on beat with their melodic performance over the lightweight beat. It’s an empowering song, but one you can slow dance to with a love interest at the club.
Stream Darkovibes and Runtown’s “Mike Tyson” below.
Featured Image Credits: Instagram/darkovibes
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him@debola_abimbolu
Abuja-based artist, Psycho YP is having the most prolific period of his career so far. We last reported the artist to have released a handful of singles, features as well as group music videos and now continuing in his proactive feat, he is back with a new single with producer, Le Mav titled “Overtime”. This is not the first time the two will team up, having recently joined forces with producer, Genio Bambino on “Summer Vacation”, a catchy bop for summertime playlists.
Over the infectious beat produced by Le Mav, YP comes in with a cool, detached demeanour rapping about his impressive star power, ‘Most of these niggas ain’t on my grind, like I’m working two jobs doing overtime‘ he confidently brags, speaking on his growing celebrity status. His hard drive which we can infer is filled with upcoming songs is labelled ammunition, YP is a confident rapper and is sure that whatever he releases is a certified bop. This is seemingly impressive for such a young rapper, as he is only 21. This year is definitely is ‘YP SZN’—the title of the his self-titled EP—as he is taking over DJ sets and playlists everywhere.
In July, South African rapper Nasty C celebrated the double platinum achievement of his sophomore album, ‘Strings & Blings’, by sharing a music video for the title track. Since the release of the star-sealing project, the rapper has been on his ‘Ivyson’ tour, and collaborated with Redbull Music for ‘Lift As You Rise’, a project aimed at spotlighting less popular artists across South Africa. However, he’s back to delivering new music with the release of his single, “God Flow”.
In trademark Nasty C fashion, the rapper is as cocky as ever, effortlessly throwing brags around and sneering at haters without losing a step. “You, you’re a peasant, surrounded by yes-men/I’m a leader by selection”, he assuredly raps, skipping across thumping drums infused with eerie bells and a xylophone loop. Fellow South African rapper crownedYung delivers the third verse in his helium-pitched voice, following Nasty C’s conceited lead without dropping the baton.
Listen to Nasty C’s “God Flow” below.
Featured Image Credits: Instagram/
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
Dennis is not an interesting person. Tweet Your Favourite Playboi Carti Songs at him @dennisadepeter
