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Songs Of The Day: New Music From Buju, Tomi Thomas, ENNY & More

Posted on July 21, 2021July 21, 2021 by The Native

We’re halfway through the summer and the amount of music we consume continues to grow exponentially by the second. With amazing songs dropping at an unrelenting pace, it’s not always easy to cut through the noise and the sheer volume of it all to find the music that will accompany our melancholy, inspire our next creative breakthrough, allow us our loved ones more securely, or take us to a place of unencumbered elation.

That’s where our ‘Songs of the Day’ column comes in. We try to keep our fingers on the pulse of music from across the continent and beyond, bringing you exciting songs from talented musicians who are continuously trying to bounds of artistry with their music. Earlier this week, we brought you new releases from Alpha P, Bella Alubo, Darkoo, Moelogo, Mohbad, Tshego, DEELA, Tblu and more. This bank holiday weekend, we’ve got you covered with all the best tunes from around the continent including British-Nigerian rapper, ENNY who just released her debut EP ‘Under Twenty Five’, Buju, Tomi Thomas, Hermez, April Maey, Fresh Meat alums Benzo and Skolleywood & more. Enjoy.

Buju – “Testimony”

2021 will be remembered as the year of Buju. Over the past few months, the Nigerian singer/rapper has been on a hot streak, releasing star-studded collaborations, topping the charts and making appearances on summer classics such as Ladipoe’s “Feeling”. On his latest single “Testimony”, the singer goes at it alone and continues to show his star power. On the new number, Buju talks about the love he has for a love interest named “Diana”.

This woman has such an effect on him that she represents a testimony and Buju wants to shout this out to the world. “Help me tell Diana something, Diana says she no longer wants me, if you leave me man felony” he sings over the song’s mid-tempo beat, declaring his affection for this woman. As love is in the air this summer, this is certainly one of those songs you want on rotation through the hot (or rainy) summer days.

Tomi Thomas – “Hurricane” ft. Buju Banton

Earlier this year, Tomi Thomas made his return to the scene with ‘Hopeless Romantic’, a succinct collection of love songs that showcased his refined artistry. Standout track “Hurricane” which earned itself a coveted spot on our Best New Music list at the time of its release has just received a befitting video treatment.

As the song uses the tropical cyclone ‘hurricane’ as a metaphor for a woman’s movement, the song’s video also embodies this tumultuous state of affairs. The Dalia Dias-directed video brings to life the song’s message as a beautiful woman turns heads (and the weather) in her wake while both artists deliver their verses. Of course, the video wouldn’t have been complete without the lovers dancing outside the courtyard in the stormy weather.

Inga Hina – Fela Emazweni

Inga is a South African singer and songwriter. Ahead of the release of her new project ‘Promises to Makhulu’, she’s shared a new promotional single titled “Fela Emazweni”, a soft-sounding number that finds her ruminating on the source of her scars.

On the number, Inga’s melodious voice is detached and sombre yet full of hope as she mulls over a bold step she has to take. Singing “To the little girl uMakhulu raised, as much as I love it here/The city will make you feel small for being okay with the little things”, she delivers a rich soliloquy armed to the teeth with affirmations for anyone looking to make a bold step. This is definitely a heartfelt number to add to your playlist.

ENNY – “Under 25”

Since breaking out in the industry last year with Amia Brave-assisted single “Peng Black Girls”, London-based rapper ENNY has been one to watch. Over the weekend, she’s released her debut EP ‘Under Twenty Five’, a 7-track collection of songs that trace the singer’s rise from the streets of London to the shores of Lagos. Standout track “Under 25” finds her mulling over her young adult years, as she tries to break free from the idea that we must be self-made by the time we’re in our late twenties.

“I feel like eff this 9-5/See that’s an understatement/Cause I’ve been chasing pavements/You win and then you lose some” she quips over the song’s melodic production arming listeners with the tools they also need to break free from societal standards. The raconteur continues to show her ability to build worlds in her music and represent the feelings of many millenials and Gen Z’s just like her.

Yemi Alade – “Enjoyment”

Yemi Alade has been serving up hits consistently for the past few years. Each new song finds her stretching the boundaries of her artistry and trying out new styles to suit the times. Her latest single “Enjoyment” finds her celebrating life’s many pleasures over an Amapiano-inspired beat. This funky and dancy hit sounds like one for the good times and party scenes. The song speaks about having fun and enjoying the moment and making connections with people when having those good times together. With lyrics such as “In the mood to jaiye oh/I no go kill myself/Wahala no dey finish”, Yemi Alade delivers a catchy number that’ll get you through the Sallah rocks this holiday.

Ajebo Hustlers – “Yafun Yafun”

Port Harcourt duo, Ajebo Hustlers are preparing for the release of their debut album ‘Kpos Lifestyle, Vol.1’. Ahead of its release this weekend, they’ve now shared a new single titled “Yafun Yafun” officially kicking off the official countdown for their debut. Over the song’s mid-tempo production, both singers talk about their past lovers who caused them a lot of worries and problems during the duration of their relationship. “All I gave you was love so why you hate me/Your problem yafun yafun/Wan make man kpuff wetin happen” they sing, painting a clear picture on how Tolani and Tinuke left lasting effects on their lives.

April Maey – “Sweatshirt”

Last year, singer/songwriter April Maey released her debut project ‘Ticket to Anywhere’, a collection of songs that caught the attention of many ears during the socially distanced lockdowns that saw us grooving to introspective Afropop. On her new single “Sweatshirt”, the singer paints a picture that visualises her experiences as a Gen Z woman.

Singing “I’ll be in the corner singing//Losing time I’m out here overthinking/Cause when I need my friends they all go missing” over the song’s first verse, April talks about her over buzzing mind, her flaky friends, her down-to-earth fashion sense and her drinking habits. Sounds familiar? It’s cause everything she sings about is something we’ve either coursed through or witnessed a close friend go through. You can tell she is an advocate of being you and being comfortable always and don’t be bothered about what the next man is doing.

Hermez – “Bean 24” ft. DOZ & Le Mav

For his second official single of the year titled “Bean 24”, Hermez links up with ’80s sound producers, DOZ and Le Mav for a sensual new number. Over the song’s bouncy production, he sings “I gotta lot on my hands, I got a bitch on the scene/She make a trip for the team/Running it straight to the bean”, the singer runs through the things clouding his mind (except for the obvious drugs) from women to money to success.

Benzo & Skolleywood – “Blow The Roof”

There’s nothing more thrilling than the sound of two rap girls trading hard-hitting bars. Fresh Meat alums and South African rappers, Benzo and Skolleywood heard our call and came together for a thumping new single titled “Blow The Roof”. The song is what you call bad bitch music as it brings out their ruthless and daring alter egos who instantly go hard on the beat and rap circles around their male contemporaries. This song speaks on being a strong woman in the game and not having time for hate and backtalk. As they chant on the hook, “Do you, blow the roof down and then kill the noise.”

T’Neeya – “La La”

Cameroonian-born, Ghanaian-based singer T’Neeya has just released a new three-pack single titled ‘In Her Feelings’. Over the song’s melodic production, she addresses a love interest who has her heart singing his or her praises. Throughout the song, she infuses the French language and West African pidgin into her lyrics, staying true to herself and her background. “Tu reste dans mon coeur, and forever we bound/So don’t you be fooled, baby na you” she sings, reassuring her lover of her commitment to only them.

Featured image credits/Instagram

ICYMI: Lady Donli’s “Searching” is a yearning for freedom

Best New Music: Lady Donli’s “Searching” Is A Yearning For Freedom

Posted on July 19, 2021 by The Native

Lady Donli broke new ground creatively with ‘Enjoy Your Life’ nearly two years ago. The engaging 15-track album transformed the sombre angst of her earlier SoundCloud releases such as ‘Wallflower’ and ‘Letters To Her’ into vivid hyper-pop cuts. The project served as a declaration of the then 22-year-old’s ambition to seek life’s finest pleasures against all odds while urging her audience to do the same.

In the near 24 months since then, the world has decisively turned on its head with a global health outbreak and a worldwide reckoning on the over-policing of Black bodies. In the middle of all that craziness, Lady Donli stepped out of the limelight to regroup away from the public’s eyes after a series of tour dates were upended by the COVID-19 restrictions. Then she came back and went off again.

All the while, the only bits of music from her were the two-song pack, “Rockstar Parole,” a caesura on the ‘Enjoy Your Life’ era that melded her newfound knack for crafting bouncy melodies with precise, almost microscopic, song-writing.

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A little past the halfway point of the year, Lady Donli has made a long-awaited return to social media and expanding the world around her sophomore album. Ahead of this, she’s announced the forthcoming release of a new EP titled ‘WILD’ and shared a new single “Searching” last week.

Here, Donli returns to the intense existential investigations of her earliest works. She broods over the ruins of a romantic relationship that didn’t quite take off. In her lyrics, she makes mention of second chances and being selfish, but her key focus remains on her desire to discover the depths of her potential unencumbered.

“But why complicate things?/ We’re friends at the moment and it’s feeling kinda nice,” she points out before the song’s catchy chorus. Powered by a spry instrumental by GMK, Donli’s emoting on ”Searching” is not grounded in despair or hurt despite the subject matter. Instead, the almost acoustic feel of the song hints at the promise of renewed friendship when the ache of the moment passes while remaining light and kind-hearted.

30th of July 2021 pic.twitter.com/RJIZ9sPgAR

— space whore (@LadyDonli) July 18, 2021

Falling 11 seconds short of the three minutes mark, Lady Donli lays down precepts on how to navigate the landmines of a combustible romantic situation without alienating a lover or resorting to toxic tactics – all while keeping her graceful voice nimble. What does all this mean for the projected release of her extended play?

Well, the last time we heard Lady Donli in full flow, she introduced us to an escapist world of delight as our early 20-something-year-old minds adapted to the rigours and demands of adulting. Two years, and numerous lifetime of memories later, she is telling us about her story and quest for development as the lead single of a project to be titled ‘WILD’. Maybe this is all part of a process to ensure we become world-wise, well-adjusted Gen-Z adults; maybe not.

Till then, only Donli has the answers. “Searching” is a song about moving on even when moving on is not the tastiest option available.

Stream “Searching” below.

Featured image credits/BamiPhotography

ICYMI: Osita Iheme’s memes are now available as NFTs

Our First Impressions Of Darkoo’s Debut EP ‘2 In 1’

Posted on July 19, 2021July 19, 2021 by The Native

It’s hard not to root for Nigerian-born, London-raised artist, Darkoo. Since breaking out two years ago with the One-Acen assisted “Gangsta”, the singer has continued to hone every part of her artistry, fashioning herself into a pop star worthy of international acclaim.

Her eclectic takes on Afropop and Afro-Swing have positioned her as one of the most exciting acts to watch out for. Nearly every subsequent release since 2019 has only served to further endear her to her growing fanbase–and she’s done it all while staying true to herself.

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Over the weekend, the London-based singer released her debut EP ‘2 in 1’, her most vocal representation of her gender non-conforming ways. Since bursting on the scene, she’s always slipped between both personas in an industry where female pop stars are expected to look, dress and present themselves in a certain way.

In Darkoo’s world, she’s free to live on her own terms. Here, she’s continued to live as she pleases, raising a middle finger to archaic rules and nurturing an unmistakable identity as a “woman who can do both”. When we last spoke to the singer, she shared that she has always played both personas. In her NATIVE Exclusive earlier this year, she admitted, “I’m not even trying to push anything I would say, but just to show that I’m comfortable with both sides of me and I can be what I wanna be when I wanna be it.”

On ‘2 in 1’, she certainly puts that versatility on full display delivery a 7-track course of Afro-fusion numbers that find the singer musing about topics such as life, love, sex, money, success and more. Darkoo herself also shared the EP is a culmination of 7 songs from different times during her journey since 2019 and sure enough, there seems to be a song for every listener to add to their playlists.

So, what’s the project’s best song? Biggest skip? Most surprising moment? The girls on the NATIVE team have got you sorted as we deliver what we think are the standouts from Darkoo’s debut EP ‘2 in 1’. Enjoy.

Best song?

Wonu: “Slow down” featuring Tion Wayne definitely has to be my favourite. On first listen, I figured this was going to be one of my favorites and funny enough it is actually my Top 2. I find it very interesting how both artists blend so perfectly on this particular track. Also, it’s such a catchy tune, it sticks on first listen. Close second to this would be “Interlude” featuring Gabzy. Yes, it’s an interlude but the melodious delivery from both artists did it for me and of course, there’s the Gabzy bias too lol. He can really do no wrong in my eyes.

Ada: After listening to this project I have to say that I have 3 favourite songs which are; OTI BERE, SHE LIKE and DRUNK TEXTING. Since I am to pick the best I’d say DRUNK TEXTING for sure.

Woju: From Drake’s “The Motion” to Santi’s “Settle Down” or Tiwa Savage’s “Celia’s Song” album closers are known to be reflective, deep numbers that meditate on the journeys traversed over the album, both in terms of the music and the road to release. Darkoo’s “Come Up” is no different. Including an arresting sample amplified by a drill slide, the beat for “Come Up” is undoubtedly the hottest on the EP, and elevates the song to the top of the album. In her bag, as she raps about her “Come Up,” Darkoo is joined by Unknown T, so perfect a fit for this beat I wouldn’t be surprised it if was actually made for him. It’s such a sweet album closer, I’m not even mad that Darkoo enters into gibberish-land on the chorus, and I typically can’t stand nonsensical lyrics.

Biggest skip?

Tami: Honestly, I can’t really see myself skipping anything on here. This is solely because it’s a fairly short project with a 20 minute run time. I think that once you start listening to one song, you don’t even realise when you’ve burnt through the other songs in quick succession. Also, it helps that the album is a mixture of Darkoo going at it alone and her bouncing her energy off her collaborators. Maybe, I’m being too nice but it’s not bad at all.

Wonu: The biggest skip for me off tape has to be “Oti Bere”. This didn’t really seem like a great way to start the EP to me. It didn’t necessarily give off what to expect on the tape and I would have expected a different song to go first just so listeners kind of know what exactly the tape is supposed to give off and It’s also my least favourite song. A great song, very catchy and easy to vibe to but still my least favourite because well, it’s a sweet tape.

Best guest feature?

Ada: OH! That’s easy. Definitely Bianco on “She Like”. The voice was quite distinct and you always wanna be remembered when you come on a feature and I believe he definitely did that.

Woju: Teaming up with some of the UK’s most talked-about emerging rappers, Darkoo’s ‘2 in 1’ EP is stiff with competition for the best guest verse. Where Unknown T is at home on “Come Up”, Gabzy is fully given the reigns and handles them nicely on the “Interlude”. The two standout tracks on the project so far are “She Like” and “Slow Down” featuring Blanco and Tion Wayne, respectively. On these songs, the guest’s acts are neck and neck, toe to toe, so tight in the race that I couldn’t pick a favourite.

Biggest surprise?

Wonu: It definitely was “Come Up” ft Unknown T for me. The angle in which both artists took this was insane. The delivery was everything and I was very impressed but then again, I wasn’t expecting anything less. All in all, It was an amazing body of work. Very short and interesting listen, I’d certainly rate this a strong 8.

Damilola: I guess I wasn’t expecting “Oti Bere” as an intro when I pressed play. It was a very strong way to begin the project and it got my attention immediately with that chord solo and drum roll. The refrain is probably the best part for me, when she samples Wizkid & Maleek Berry’s “Back To The Matter” – it feels almost like there are two people on the song the way she controls her delivery and pitch of her voice. I was also really pleasantly surprised by Tion Wayne’s verse, on “Slow Down”, he was rapping rapping and I enjoyed the change of pace.

Overall first impressions?

Ada: I think ‘2 in 1’ is familiar, Afro-pop, and melodious. These words are what I totally felt when first listening to the album. The project had a very familiar sound and relatable lyrics which in a way felt done before. It followed a certain pattern that brought back a lot of deja-vu moments which isn’t entirely bad because I enjoyed it too. I believed the aim was to produce melodious tracks and I can say she definitely nailed it. Even the raps were quite smooth and melodious. I’m also a big fan of the album art. LOVE IT!

Tami: After a few listens, I’ll give ‘2 in 1’ a 4-star overall. I really enjoyed the fact that the project was short and digestible in just 20 minutes. I also really enjoyed hearing Darkoo in different lights and showcasing both her London and Nigerian on each track. It definitely shows Darkoo’s growth as an artist since 2019 and shows why she deserves to remain in your frequent rotation. Her music is light, never takes itself too seriously and is familiar all at the same time. I especially loved the project opener “Oti Bere” which set the pace for the rest of the EP. Also, Wizkid’s influence is incredible.

Woju: Overall, I dig it. Pretty much every song is a good one on ‘2 in 1’; from the seductive sax on “Drunk Texting” (which, I LOVE the name), to the crazy Wizkid sample on “Oti Bere” where she sounds identical to Starboy. The singles, “She Like” and “Pick Up” still remain strong, signifying a clear consistency in Darkoo’s craft. In terms of production, much of the project feels like it lacks originality – the beats are good, but it’s nothing we haven’t heard before. Lyrically though, Darkoo excels. Witty with it, Darkoo comes out with some epic burns in her bars, for example, “so when you fucking him, I hop you say my name/So when he leaves you, I hope you feel my pain,” on the single, “Pick Up.” Darkoo’s is not my kind of music, so I won’t necessarily return to the project, but ‘2 in 1’ was a thoroughly enjoyable listen and I am looking forward to hearing all these records outside.

[Featured image credits: Instagram/Darkoo]

Written by Ada Nwakor, Adewojumi Aderemi, Damilola Animashaun, Tami Makinde, and Wonu Osikoya

ICYMI: With Darkoo, You Always Get Twice As Much

Copa Femme Is On A Mission To Bridge The Gender Play Gap In Nigeria

Posted on July 17, 2021July 18, 2021 by Tami Makinde

Sports has long served as an enjoyable physical activity that brings people together and improves our mental and physical capabilities. However, by the age of just 14, there is already a worrying gap between the number of girls and boys playing sports. According to a recent UK survey, girls are two times more likely to drop out of sports than boys.

These barriers to sports can be for a myriad of reasons including lack of access, sexism, sexual harassment or abuse, and more. When intersections such as Black and African are factored into these barriers, these numbers could potentially become even more staggering. While there is no readily quantifiable data in these parts, you need only look at the way that way our society guides both men and women into various acceptable gender norms. These days, these norms are being questioned more than ever before, and we’re coming into times where female athletes are leading the charge on a global stage.

As a result of this, many organisations and companies catered to improving and sustaining female participation in sports have popped in the past few years. It is in this environment that Copa Femme, a non-profit foundation in Nigeria wants to bridge the gender play gap in Nigeria.

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Formed back in March 2019 by co-founders and friends, Demi Filani and Damilola Sofidiya on International Women’s Day, the women-led foundation has been on a mission to increase female participation in sports–just for the fun of it. Focusing on the lighthearted nature of sports and having a good time rather unhealthy competition, the foundation provides a space for women to gather and play games such as football and basketball without the fear of social stigma.

“I formed it by accident,” Demi Filani tells me over the phone, just days to the foundation’s third football competition in Lagos. “I think I sent a tweet asking who wants to play football cause I was in Lagos at the time and I wanted to play football.ed to play football. So I asked if there were any girls that were interested in playing football. The outcome I got was a lot and so many girls responded. After that moment, I thought I might as well start a competition to try and celebrate talented women in sports.” From their first event, right through to now, the team over at Copa Femme have championed the act of having fun and making mistakes in a safe environment.

Each year, Copa Femme raises money through donations and price tickets which are then invested into a female-led organisation in the country. In past years, they have donated to Sanitary Aid Nigeria, a non-profit organisation that provides sanitary products for less privileged women in the country. This year, the foundation will be hosting its third event since its inception in Lekki, Nigeria with all the profits from the event going to Vista Hospital.

Ahead of the games, we spoke to co-founder Demi Filani about Copa Femme’s vision, the need for more recreational facilities in Nigeria and what still needs to be done to bridge the gender play gap.

Our conversation which follows below has been lightly edited for clarity.

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NATIVE: What are the main goals of a foundation such as Copa Femme?

Demi: Our four goals were to break the stereotype of girls in sports, to raise money for charity, to celebrate talented girls in sports and make people have fun. In breaking the stereotype of girls in sports, there are different stereotypes of women and in the sports industry, there are so many. So we felt like if we were making girls come out to play sports, we had to create a space where they felt welcome, comfortable and encouraged to play and make mistakes.

Here, stereotypes don’t hold women back. If we celebrate them, that will encourage them to play more and encourage them to carry on with their dream. And also to make them feel like there are people rooting for them. Also, all the money that we make from gate fee, we give to charity organisations that we reach out to before the events. And to make people have fun in a good setting where they are watching sports, there are different games happening around such as chess.

NATIVE: How are you actively working to bridge the gender play gap in your own way?

Demi: The gender play gap in sports is a lot. When I first started to do research about women in sports, it was quite alarming finding out about why certain stereotypes were upheld and how unfairly women are treated in sports. I’ve always been a sports fan right from high school until now in univeristy and I must say that it’s not gotten any better for female players. There’s a visible difference between when there’s a football match for men and women. Things such as encouragement and attendance are so vastly different for the two groups. However, I feel like if we don’t start from somewhere then there is no way we can get better and if we don’t begin to encourage, support, and advocate for women then things won’t get better.

I am sure there are different organisations that will definitely start-up in the coming years. It doesn’t have to be just me. The more women that come up to do these things, the more encouraging and the more spotlight we will get collectively. I’ve faced opposition for centering just women in these competitions but that would always be my focus when I know how marginalised we are in the industry. For them to be alarmed that people are doing something like this shows that there is a gender play gap.

“You can recognise women and validate them in the sports they do.”

NATIVE: Tell me about your first event. What were some of the highlights from that time?

Demi: During our first tournament, I was very impressed with the participation from all the women involved. I thought they would be shy at first but they were very much interested and they all seemed happy to be there. The atmosphere was also very inviting and encouraging so people wanted to stay and play. We sold out our tickets and had to start using markers on fingernails to be sure people paid to come in. The second highlight was Buju’s performance. At the time, he was just coming up so everyone was excited to see him perform. Also, the girls that won, the way they danced after collecting their awards, I just felt so excited and fulfilled. I had done something special and put a smile on people’s faces.

NATIVE: How do you strike the balance between healthy and unhealthy competition?

Demi: I feel like with women, they just want everyone to win. At the first event, there was no tension between teams because it all seemed that even if you win, I don’t mind as long as we are all having fun. It didn’t seem competitive and I didn’t feel the heat. The contestants felt more comfortable with each other and they felt this is something new and we’re helping other women who need our help.

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NATIVE: How is Copa Femme funded?

Demi: We are funded by sponsorships and endorsements mostly. We just reach out to brands and sponsors and hope that they trust our vision and want to bridge the gender play gap. When we first started Copa Femme, it wasn’t about the money or keeping any of the money, we all knew it was going directly to charity. I just wanted to play ball at the time and so whatever money we make, we gave it to any charity organisation we had in mind. However, due to the pandemic this year, we didn’t get as much sponsorship as we would like but we made enough for the event to hold this year. Our core sponsor for this year is Tangerine and they’ve been able to help with things we need help with many aspects of the competition including donating the 140,000 naira prize fund.

NATIVE: What can we expect from the Copa Femme tournament this year?

Demi: Lots of fun. The basketball and the football games, we’re going to have two winners this year. Lots of fun, lots of games. This is the second-ever physical event but last year, during the pandemic, we had an online tournament where we had women freestyle in whatever sports they could do. So for example, we had women jogging the basketball or dribbling and we awarded prize awards to them. It was just based more on likes and comments.

Tennis is something I am interested in but next year, I am interested in a full women’s sports day where there are different races and games but just for women alone. There will be different houses and they’ll compete for challenges. Next year, I am looking at a sports day of this kind.

Featured image credits/Courtesy of Copa Femme

ICYMI: Nigeria’s basketball teams are on the verge of making history at the Olympics

Songs Of The Day: New Music From Alpha P, Bella Alubo, Darkoo & More

Posted on July 16, 2021July 17, 2021 by Wonu Osikoya

As we cross into the second half of the year, the amount of music we consume continues to grow exponentially by the second. With amazing songs dropping at an unrelenting pace, it’s not always easy to cut through the noise and the sheer volume of it all to find the music that will accompany our melancholy, inspire our next creative breakthrough, allow us our loved ones more securely, or take us to a place of unencumbered elation.

That’s where our ‘Songs of the Day’ column comes in. We try to keep our fingers on the pulse of music from across the continent and beyond, bringing you exciting songs from talented musicians who are continuously trying to bounds of artistry with their music. Earlier this week, we brought you new releases from Dave, 1Da Banton, Deena Ade, Tshego, Spesh OG, SJXY and more. This weekend, we’re bringing you all the best tunes from Alpha P, Bella Alubo, Darkoo, Moelogo, Mohbad, Tshego, DEELA, Tblu and more. Enjoy.

Alpha P – “Oh No”

Alpha P has been on a roll this year. Earlier in the year, he featured on the TMXO-produced “Jiggy Bop”, a delightful cut that featured on the ‘Rhythms of Zamunda: Music Inspired By Coming 2 America’ soundtrack. A few months later, when Justin Bieber’s “Peaches” took a world tour to West Africa, the singer once again featured on the “Peaches (Masterkraft Remix)” alongside Omah Lay.

For his latest solo single “Oh No”, Alpha P is now turning the amp up a notch further. The Killertunes-produced track has the artist singing to a muse; “Baby oh no, where i wan go?/come take my soul/Anything you tell me i go do, full stop” he quips on the track inviting love into his life.

Bella Alubo – “Table for Two”

This year, Bella Alubo has kept listeners consistently well-fed with a slew of new singles. Already, she’s released “Pretty Things”, “Gbolahan” and “Gba Gbe”, which resulted in the singer announcing her debut album ‘Bella Buffet’. Ahead of its release later this year, Bella Alubo has now another single titled “Table For Two”, a catchy new track that’s sure to whet fans appetite.

Over the stellar production by Snn, Bella sings “Na mistake I do wey I set the table for two/You were never there when I needed you” on the song’s hook chastising a past lover for their flaky ways. The anti-love anthem finds her weaving interesting tales into poignant lyrics that will certainly resonate with many listeners. However, while she’s the one being played, she comes ready with a roast dinner for two and he just happens to be on the menu.

Darkoo – “Slow Down” ft. Tion Wayne

Since Darkoo burst onto the scene in 2019 with “Gangsta” featuring One Ace, she’s been an exciting talent to watch grow and develop as an artist. This year, she’s set her sights on her biggest mission yet: the release of her debut EP ‘2 in 1’, a 6-track course that gives listeners a taste of her improved versatility.

Stand out track “Slow Down” featuring Tion Wayne is a mid-tempo romantic number that finds both artists serenading their muse. Over the melodious beat of this track, Darkoo sings “slow down for me baby, jeje o baby/I just wanna be your one and only” professing her affection for her this person.

Davido – “Shopping Spree” ft. Young Thug & Chris Brown

Last year, Nigerian singer Davido released his third studio album ‘A Better Time’, a cross-continental cut that featured a host of artists from Young Thug to Nicki Minaj, Tiwa Savage, Nas, Lil Baby, Mayorkun and more. Since then, he’s been expanding the world around the album with music video releases for songs such as “The Best”, “Tanana” and more.

To capitalise more on the album’s success, he’s now released the video for “Shopping Spree”, the boisterous number featuring Young Thug and frequent collaborator, Chris Brown. The Des Gray-directed video takes place in a school setting with Davido as the cool jock boy in love with the finest girl at the school. He serenades her by performing his verse and dances for her. Young Thug and Chris Brown also make cameos in the video acting out the song’s romantic theme with their muses.

Mohbad – “Feel Good”

Following the success of his hit single “KPK” with hit producer Rexxie, Marlian Music signee, Mohbad is back with another smash hit that certainly has the potential to take over the clubs this summer. Produced by Niphkeys, this track is as its title says is a feel-good song that will certainly get you in the best mood.

The Amapiano-inspired number finds the singer looking past the hardships in life to the specks of good moments that surface from time to time. With lyrics such as “I know there is a day when my pains willl go away/Till then I smoke it away,” he implores listeners to look ahead to the good days.

Savemilli – “Pretty Girls Like To Party” ft. J Molley & Psycho YP

Rapper SaveMilli has just released his debut EP ‘Childish II’, a 6-tracker with features from a host of Nigerian rap talent from Blaqbonez, to J Molley and PsychoYP. Standout number “Pretty Girls Love To Party” featuring J Molley and PsychoYP finds all three rappers boasting about their affluent lifestyles and their roster of pretty women. “Put on my dancing shoes, they don’t get me tired/Pull up with all these women, pretty girls like to party”, raps Savemilli on the song’s catchy hook, clearly having fun trading bars with his peers.

DEELA – “Get A Grip”

British-Nigerian rapper DEELA has consistently shown us the type of treatment she demands from her men. On past releases “CHAINS” and “Bitch Boi”, she’s wasted no time in asserting who she is and how she deserves to be treated by new lovers, past flings, and ex-lovers alike.

On her latest single “Get A Grip”, she delivers a scathing verse about her needs and her sexual demands. ‘Take me out then eat me/I want to eat at the Shard and get lit/Lie to my nigga to get all of this/Get A Grip’ she raps, schooling her suitors on how she would like to be approached.

Tshego – “My Favourite Song” ft. Shekhinah

South African rapper Tsegho, releases a 3-track EP ‘3 Piece’, with lead single “Only If You Like That” and guest verses from Shekhinah, Blxckie and Flvme. The standout track, “My Favourite Song” has both artists complementing each other perfectly on the mid-tempo track as they mix harmonies melodiously with indisputable chemistry.

Moelogo – “One Time” ft. Reekado Banks

As his artist tag says, “When you hear me say Logo, You know it’s banger”. Moelogo collaborates with Reekado Banks to deliver a mid-tempo love banger. “One time” is a pleasing song about a beautiful lady who they wish to show affection to; “All i want to do is just love you, give you the world/One time, girl give me your love for one night”. With a Reekado Banks-verse assist, both artists deliver a stellar performance.

Featured image credits/Instagram

ICYMI: Catch NSG, Lojay and Native Sound System

Detailing the elements of Skepta x Havana Club’s second edition

Posted on July 16, 2021July 16, 2021 by Wonu Osikoya

In partnership with Havana Club*

British-Nigerian rap icon, brand influencer and businessman, Joseph Adenuga Junior, better known as Skepta, has, for a while now, made it a major priority of his to imbibe his Nigerian culture into his music and his everyday life. A year ago, Skepta teamed up with Cuba’s finest rum production company, Havana Club to debut the first Skepta x Havana Club bottle which was launched on the 15th July, 2020.

This year, the Amuludun of Odo Aje, Ogun State is back with a Second Edition Skepta x Havana Club 7 bottle. Similar to the first edition bottle, the label on the Skepta x Havana Club 2.0 depicts noteworthy imagery that divulge the significance of both Cuban and Nigerian cultures to this collaboration. Every detail is an emblematic representation of Yoruba and Santeria – an African diaspora that developed in Cuba during the late 19th century. Santeria, which translates to “worship of the saints,” arose through a process of syncretism between the traditional Yorubas and the Roman Catholic form of Christianity also present in Cuba in the late 19th century.

With Yoruba and Santeria having similarities in cultures, this second edition bottle honours the migration of our ancestors. As projected in the minute-long promotional video, this bottle is dedicated to “the journeys that we continue to take, the journeys that make us great.” As such, the exclusive label has been designed to mirror the scenery and landscapes of the two countries, bringing them together through Skepta’s eyes. Not quite identical to the first bottle, the elements on this bottle have been carefully selected in a way that is graphically inspiring and aesthetically pleasing.

Here, we delve into the elements that make up the label of the bottle and how these elements have taken form and shaped this collaboration.

Red and Black Themed Background

The Elegua, a Yoruba deity who is still very much respected in Cuba, mostly appears in red and black, which is the colour theme of this bottle. Paying tribute to the Elegua the colour scheme emphasises the transnational associations between both Yoruba and Cuban cultures.

Cowrie Shells

As represented on the first edition bottle, Cowrie shells are found on the statues of Elegua, an Orisha – a deity of roads in the religions of Santería, Umbanda, Quimbanda and Candomblé. A link of cowrie shells around the perimeter of the label forms the exterior of the bottle which represents Elegua’s broad appearance.

Guiro Texture

The guiro texture in the background of the Skepta Head silhouette was inspired by the parallel notches on the guiro instrument. Guiro is a percussion musical instrument which is commonly used in Cuban, Puerto Rican and other forms of Latin American music. In Cuba, the guiro is used in the genre Danzón.

Conga Drum

Similar to the first bottle, there’s a layered ring styled into the shape of the top of a conga drum. The conga drum is often referred to as tumbadora in Cuba and bembè in Yorubaland. The drum, in this instance, not only ties the two cultures together, but also represents Skepta’s strength as a rapper and a record producer.

Igi Oye Adire

The adire patterned background on this bottle was inspired by the leaves of Igi Oye, a chieftaincy tree in Yorubaland. The pattern of the indigenous native attire, which originated in Abeokuta, Ogun State in the mid 1920’s, was produced for the first Chief Mrs, and is a symbol of supremacy and chieftaincy in Yorubaland. On this bottle’s label, the Igi Oye adire pattern is a representation of Skepta’s office and Chieftaincy title Amuludun of Odo-Aje, which was conferred to him in April, 2018.

Olumo Rock

The Olumo Rock mountain – which is located in the heart of Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria – was used as a protection for Egba people during tribal warfare in the 19th century. The mountain which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Nigeria, on this bottle is a diagrammatic representation of Skepta’s roots and where he comes from.

Foiled Hawks

These native hawks which portray power and strength, are found circling above Olumo Rock. On the label, these hawks are depicted in foil, as a way to add texture to this vibrant and distinct bottle.

Each element of the label on the bottle draws influence from either Skepta’s Yoruba roots or the Havana club’s commitment to its society and other neighbouring societies. A significant partnership in contemporary culture, this bottle encapsulates the strength in connectivity between the two cultures.

Image Credits: Ibrahim Adewole/Havana Club

Graphics Credits: Havana Club

ICYMI: NATIVE EXCLUSIVE: A TRIP TO CUBA WITH TEEZEE, SKEPTA & STEPHEN TAYO

Catch NSG, Lojay, Native Sound System & More At Homecoming 2021

Posted on July 16, 2021July 16, 2021 by The Native

We’re already halfway through the summer holidays and already, there’s no shortage of festivals and concerts to attend. In the UK, COVID-19 restrictions are reducing by the day, and there’s more reason to experience our favourite music outside with our friends.

This summer, Homecoming is making its return. This year, Homecoming is partnering with Manchester International Festival to bring all the best of the African continent direct to you. The yearly festival is set to take place in Manchester over the weekend and boasts a stellar lineup of artists and entertainment.

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A host of West African talent is set to take the stage this weekend including NSG, Midas the Jagaban, Lojay, and more. The day also promises to keep guests entertained with live DJ sets from DJ Obi, and Native Sound System who will be playing live at the event.

This year, there will also be an option to watch the show virtually, which recognises a year of change to the music industry and live show experiences. Ahead of tomorrow’s show, there are limited tickets still available and you can use our discount code MIF21NATIVE to purchase one for the show.

However, in case you miss out, you can also now subscribe to the Homecoming mailing list to get the love stream link sent directly to your email during the event.

Find out more about the festival here.

Featured image credits/KashKam/PauseOnline

ICYMI: We spoke to some Wizkid fans about ‘Superstar’

Hot Takes: Nigerian Idol, Euro 2020 & A Pyer Moss Summer

Posted on July 16, 2021July 23, 2021 by Ada Nwakor

Summer has arrived. This year, with the ongoing circulation of the COVID-19 vaccines, there are tell-all signs that life is returning to normal or a semblance of it. Although masks are still very much in at the moment, their use isn’t as regulated as it once was.

This cancer season has been a whirlwind time for many people. There’s an almost unspoken realisation that we’re edging closer towards the crunch time of our adult lives. For me, it’s been such a reality check with all my responsibilities hitting me at the same exact moment. Having to complete school, complete NYSC, get a good-paying job, start a family and do this all before you turn 30 is insane. Moreover, I, for one, can’t stand this pressure and won’t be participating any further.

Result season for the graduating Nigerian Law School students is finally upon us and I’m feeling a thousand emotions all at once. Mixed reactions have trailed these results as many either celebrate their achievements1q or are dissatisfied and disappointed with the final outcome. At this juncture, all I can say is congratulations to those who have excelled regardless of the end result and for those who haven’t- it is not the end of the world, and perseverance and hope will get you through it all.

What I’m currently listening to

I am a very nostalgic music listener. I enjoy new music but I’m a huge sucker for old hits or albums. When I mean old I don’t only mean 90’s or early 2000’s, I also mean music from just a few years ago. Sometimes the old stuff is better than the sound we listen to now. This week, I’ve been replaying a lot of SAint Jhn, Kanye West, Roy Woods and Chris Brown, and Wizkid for the oldies but for the new music, I’m on “Sere” remix with 6black and “Drown” by WurlD.

What I’m currently watching

I’m a sucker for reality TV shows, sitcoms and true crimes. ‘Too Hot To Handle’ has been a favourite of mine since its first season aired last year. This season, however, is a lot more thrilling than the last and filled with more surprises and twists than any other reality dating show at the moment. I became a Melinda fan from just the first few episodes. You’ll understand once you get into the season too.

‘Modern Family’ is currently my constant watch. I find it funny and timeless. I don’t think it’s for everyone cause I believe everyone has a different sense of humour but I love it! Also, I’m very big on true crime stories and a personal favourite is Youtuber, Kendall Rae who takes viewers through not only the whole story but the mindset and reasoning behind the crimes.

Summer style trends I’m loving

As the NATIVE’s first-ever in-house Creative Assistant, it’s my job to stay on pulse with the latest fashion trends around Africa and the world at large. This summer, so many trends are making their way into the mainstream and many others are going out of style. I’ve compiled a few highlights I’m currently loving or hating at the moment.

Crocs: The revolution of crocs will be televised. Over the past year or so, crocs have made their way back into the mainstream, particularly here in Nigeria, where new partnerships are emerging every other day. It’s definitely a staple pair for your wardrobe and as Nicki Minaj famously said, “If it’s a calm flex, then I bring the crocs out.”

Sunglasses: Orange tinted sunnies are the new black. It’s unbelievable how well these glasses suit everyone, and I really do mean everyone. Get a pair and trust me you’ll be glad you did

Mini bags: Almost every brand has its own variation of the mini baguette bags. I have to admit even I’ve caught the mini bag bug now. Everyone has one now so get into the spirit and get yourself one too. The go-to is a Jacquemus mini.

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Kingdom wins Nigerian Idols

On Sunday, the grand finale of the current season of Nigerian Idols took place. After several weeks of battling it out in front of the fierce panel of judges, a winner has emerged victorious and it’s none other than the contestant with a voice of gold. Kingdom Krosiede has been crowned as the Season 6 winner. He is to be awarded a cash prize of 30 million Naira, a car, an all-expense-paid trip to Dubai and Seychelles, 3 music videos, and a 6 track EP recording deal.

The competition this year was definitely tough but Kingdom managed to hold his own with his melodic and wholesome vocals. The finale night was a star-studded affair with performances from Patoranking, Ice Prince, Ayra Starr and many more. Congratulations Kingdom! Continue to soar to greater heights.

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Euro 2020: I Guess It’s Coming Rome?

Over the past weekend, social media timelines have been replete with reminders that it’s coming home–to the England team. Excitement was rife and bets were placed on this premonition. However, last Sunday’s game left a bitter taste in many mouths across the UK. After tying 2-2 in the second half of the match, the win was left to be decided by a penalty round which saw Italy scoring the winning goal.

Consequently, as a result of Italy’s win and the crushing defeat to England, many football fans in the UK sent several racist and harmful comments to the England squad, particularly the Three Lions. 19-year-old Bukayo Saka, the winger and attacker for the Three Lions seems to have come under the most heat as he missed his penalty shot. Other team members currently under attack are Marcus Rashford MBE, and Jadon Sancho who almost missed out at the penalty stage.

The callous comments received are further examples of how society fails Black people, especially those with a platform. We are given no room to make mistakes, and when we do, we are piled on endlessly by racist people from far and wide. It’s very disappointing to witness this yet again. It serves as a reminder that the UK is not exempt from working to root out the systemic forms of oppression.

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Pyer Moss Couture Collection Debut

Last Thursday 8th July, Kerby Jean-Raymond, the creative director of Pyer Moss became the first-ever Black fashion label to be aprroved or invited on the Haute Couture calendar. Launched back in 2013, the brand is known for its riveting documentation of Black American culture on the runways and its deftly woven political commentary with fashion.

However, due to Hurricane Elsa, the show was postponed until Saturday 10th July. For his debut at this high-fashion event, Kerby paid homage to Black inventors through the ages. The pieces highlighted the experiences and inventions that will be familiar to most Black Americans.

The show began with a stunning Bottle cap piece, followed by a mop-inspired piece and then a phone, and a refrigerator. Each piece was more quirky and campy than the last, all inspired by inventions that define our everyday lives. He rounded up the show with a defining message about Black trauma. While the collection certainly made an unforgettable statement, it also has to be said how impractical and unwearable most of the pieces are. I’m not sure how soon we’ll be seeing these adapted into everyday fashion but lovely presentation.

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BIA vs. Burna Boy

‘Odogwu, you bad oh, e fi le fun Burna’

Burna Boy is one artist who certainly lives up to his larger-than-life lyrics. Over the weekend, the Grammy-award-winning artist sent out cryptic tweets about his achievements and the feats he’d made in the industry. The source of his vex: A 5-minute clip from Nicki Minaj’s Instagram Live with fellow American rapper, BIA.

In the clip, BIA admitted that she had no idea how Burna Boy, Wizkid and Davido’s face looked like, which caused quite the stir on social media. The matter was aggravated by a follow-up tweet from Burna Boy who claimed that the rapper had been in his DMs since 2018.

That babe wey nor know our face don dey my dms since 2018 o. 😂🤣 🤣.

— Burna Boy (@burnaboy) July 10, 2021

The Internet is an unforgiving place and sure enough, hours later, screenshots surfaced of BIA commenting on Burna Boy’s Instagram post from the year in question. However, BIA wasn’t too pleased about this as she questioned why the Grammy-award-winning singer even cared that she didn’t know his face. She’s got a point. Surely, it shouldn’t matter if your core fan base knows you and rock with your songs. I think this whole interaction was unnecessary. They’re both good artists in their own rights.

Oop! Burna Boy is trending on Twitter after seemingly responding to BIA after she said she didn’t know what he, WizKid, or Davido looked like while on live with Nicki Minaj on Thursday. BIA did clear the air and tweeted yesterday that she knows what Wiz Kid looks like👀 pic.twitter.com/jXYH1YlwwQ

— TheShadeRoom (@TheShadeRoom) July 10, 2021

Featured image credits/NATIVE

Lady Donli makes her return with GMK-produced single “Searching”

Posted on July 16, 2021 by Tami Makinde

For the past few months, the question on everyone’s lips has been unanimous. Where is Lady Donli? While the answer has remained status imminent for most of the year, she’s certainly piqued interests further with her welcome return this month.

Arriving today, Lady Donli’s first official single of the year “Searching” is a welcome return of sorts. Here, the singer shifts the needle on her artistic output once again, shedding the days of her ‘Enjoy Your Life’ era completely.

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On the GMK-produced single, the singer is at her most introspective. She confronts her innermost feelings about herself reflected through the worries of a lover. “You said that I’m selfish/But what makes you perfect” she quips over the song’s rhythmic production.

As the song builds, Lady Donli’s focus shifts. It’s clear that this revelatory conversation has led her to question who she really is and attempt to reconnect to the core of her being. “I just wanna know who I am/Searching but I’ll be there when I can” she sings, digging into these frustrating thoughts and fighting to come out with answers.

However, there are no answers. Life is a constant loop of searching for who you are and questioning the hypocrisy in yourself and others. The song’s incredibly layered production provides the perfect bedding for Lady Donli to ponder these thoughts. Rather than arriving at catharsis, she continues her search for self, leaving listeners to ponder about the state of their own psyche while turning up simultaneously.

Stream “Searching” below.

[Featured image credits: Instagram/BamiPhotography]

DETO BLACK brings her debut EP one song closer with new single, “Brag”

Posted on July 16, 2021July 16, 2021 by Adewojumi Aderemi

In the year since she first announced her pivot to music, with one of the year’s hottest verses on “body count”, DETO BLACK remained the cultural icon she’s always been amongst Lagos’ alternative youth cohort, but kept her new ventures in music under wraps. This year, DBlack is ready to make her mark. Dropping her debut single, “Tesla” back in May, DETO BLACK continues to build anticipation for her impending debut EP with another slick-toned release, “Brag”.

**“I don’t mean to brag, but the bitch is fucking bad“**

You know when someone starts a sentence with “I don’t mean to…” and everyone’s inner voice chants in unison, “um, yeah you do”? That’s DETO’s intro. Purporting that she isn’t one to “Brag”, if her drawn out enunciation wasn’t dubious enough, the song’s bold opening renders her humble claims entirely unconvincing. DETO BLACK means to brag; but if you hear her out, you might begin to understand why.

On a twinkling beat produced by Genio Bambino, DETO BLACK says no to pussyfooting around her merit or her high flying social status. She’s “a bad bitch from Lagos,” with an enviable Instagram – page and following. She’s “a player till the end,” both sexy and dangerous. She’s “way too fly,” and she doesn’t even need to try – so the song’s sing-along hook will tell you.

**“Hopped out the Benz, yeah it’s D Black and friends“**

Bad all by herself, on “Brag”‘s first verse, DETO BLACK reminds us that she’s good on her own. She “don’t need a group,” she spits, but she does choose one; and, of course, she brags about them too. Now commonly referred to as a Power Puff Girl, BLACK’s second verse is dedicated to her friends. Bordering on self-reverential, DBlack commends their trendsetting prowess, before reminding listeners that no one can compare to the 2021 Plastics, quoting mean girls on the verse’s final bar, “you can’t sit with us.“

From her debut verse on “body count” to her “FRANCHISE” freestyle, alongside Skepta, Unknown T and Lancey Foux, each DETO BLACK appearance comes well-equipped with quotables, and “Brag” is no different. A two-minute number, with two verses and two choruses, DETO uses her words – not our time – for her self-aggrandisement. Perhaps she really is as humble as she claims to be on the song’s intro.

Find out as you listen to “Brag” below:

Image Credits: Deto Black

ICYMI: NATIVE PREMIERE: SGAWD AND SOMADINA ARE READY TO “POP SHIT”

NATIVE Premiere: SGaWD and Somadina are ready to “Pop Shit”

Posted on July 16, 2021July 16, 2021 by Tami Makinde

Over the past year, there’s been a welcome resurgence in the number of female emcees in the game. From far and wide, we’re seeing more women subvert the watchful male gaze and make music on their own terms. They consistently champion their experiences in their music, armed to the teeth with affirmations for women just like them.

Consequently, here in Nigeria, the gospel of female rap has been slow and steady. Rapper and singer, SGaWD has quietly been working her way from a newcomer with a handful of singles and freestyles to a solo artist operating in a lane of her own making.

The Fresh Meat alum has spent most of the past year building her discography and collaborating with a host of talent from West Africa including Kiienka, Suté Iwar, Dusten Truce, and more. This has certainly paid off, earning the talented newcomer a coveted spot on our Best New Artists list for 2020.

This year, SGaWD has her sights set on her biggest mission yet: the release of her debut EP. So far, she’s teamed up with Aux Africa to drop a 3-pack single release titled “Phobia” and now, she’s in full album mode. After teasing her latest release “Pop Shit” with Somadina and Trill Xöe for some time now, she’s finally ready to welcome us into her world.

Opening up with Trill Xöe’s futuristic bounce, the song begins with a catchy and memorable hook. “I can’t wait to pop shit” chant both artists, relying on their undeniable chemistry to drive the song’s upbeat message. Somadina is the first one to take centre stage as she breezes through her verse with her familiar cool demeanour. “Niggas still acting shiesty/I don’t sing on type beats” she sings-raps calling out men in the industry who diminish women’s invaluable contributions.

SGaWD comes in guns blazing on the song’s second verse, establishing her star power from its opening moments. “Friends and foes, I ain’t Jesus so it’s definitely death to foes/They befriending your potential just incase you blow” she quips, laying bare her reality as a female emcee making a name for herself.

As a young artist, fairly new in the game, getting people to take your craft seriously is challenging but SGaWD knows what she’s capable of and she’s unwilling to let anyone step on her toes. In short, as the song builds, it becomes increasingly clear that these women are just here to show off their skilled lyricism and have fun while doing so.

Speaking about the new single, SGaWD shares:

“This song means, right here and right now is my moment. My moment to live and do so on my own terms. This is carving a lane for myself.

As women in rap, this sets the tone, this is what we call getting the job done, from the bars to the delivery. We can have cult classics too and make mosh pit music but most importantly we can entertain. Women are so on their game rn and this song and collab is just a testimony to that.”

Get a first look at the official lyric video for “Pop Shit” below.

Featured image credits/WuraolaAjeigbe

ICYMI: The importance of women sharing their experiences through music

Here are the winners from Pretty Boy D-O’s freestyle challenge

Posted on July 15, 2021 by The Native

These days, artists no longer rely solely on their music to connect with the fans. Thanks to social media, which grants one immediate access to all of your favourite artists, marketing music has experienced a welcome surge over the past decade in the most authentic ways.

Pretty Boy D-O has endeared his audience over the years with his authentic expression of self, and larger-than-life personality. With a strong presence on social media, using slang such as his most recent, ‘Lord protect my steppings’, his influence on popular culture is clear, and now he’s invited his able fans to join him in a freestyle challenge.

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Drum roll please…

Following the release of his latest single “Living in Bondage”, the Lagos-based rapper placed an open call for freestyle submissions to the song in partnership with OffTopApp.

The challenge officially kicked off last month, and has now drawn to a close after receiving over 700 submissions from around the continent. In partnership with the man himself, The NATIVE team sorted through all these submissions and picked the top 10 entries in the challenge. We are pleased to announce the winner today, rapper, Boy Oleko who’s Instagram will show that he’s he’s gaining traction and building his own fan base organically, with covers of some recent hits; Ruger’s “Bounce” and Omah Lay’s “Understand”.

For this competition, his cutting raps and painfully honest lyrics, especially his reference to #JusticeForTina, and passing commentary on the dire state of our country earned him the top spot in the #LivingInBondage.

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Close runners up in second and third place are CJ Zuma and J Will who are closely followed by White Flavour OD in fourth place. Our other worthy entries rounding off the finalists in the top 10 were; Milly Wine, Ameen, Preshtunez, Christina Qween and Jcee Gram, whose impressive raps gave DO the NATIVE team a tough decision to make. Ultimately, there can only be one winner, congratulations to Boy Oleko.

Check out all the freestyle submissions from the Top 10 finalists below.

Featured image credits/NATIVE

ICYMI: Ladipoe, Buju & more lead the charge this week

Nigeria’s basketball teams are on the verge of making history at the Olympics

Posted on July 15, 2021July 15, 2021 by Dennis Ade Peter

The 32^nd Summer Olympic Games are around the corner. Currently scheduled to take place from July 23 to August 8, Nigeria’s men and women basketball teams will be the only African representative in the upcoming games. This is further confirmation of the country’s dominance on the continent, however, it has yet to grow into a proper global contender on the international stage.

This year’s Olympics is perhaps the best chance for Nigeria’s basketball teams to upgrade its status, and perhaps achieve feats that no African country has at the Olympics: advance past the preliminary stage and make it to the medal podium. The men’s team, D’Tigers, have been pulling a lot of support over the last week, following their win over the USA men’s team on Saturday, July 10.

The Exhibition Games

In their first exhibition game ahead of the Olympics, D’Tigers pulled off a shocking and invigorating 90-87 win over the US. This made them the first African basketball team to win against the USA since NBA players became eligible for national team duties. During the game, D’Tigers lead for significant parts of the first half’s twenty minutes proving to be a stern test down the stretch. They eventually landed the win on the back of twenty made 3-pointers scoring twice as many as Team USA. They did this on around 50% shooting, and a tough defensive effort epitomised by Precious Achiuwa’s jaw-dropping block on Kevin Durant.

Achiuwa, drafted by the Miami Heat, is one of eight active NBA players on the 15-man provisional roster announced by the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF) last week. It represents the amount of Nigerian-related talent on rosters across the most prestigious basketball league in the world. “There are more players of Nigerian descent in the NBA than probably any country besides the U.S…the talent is there,” D’Tigers head coach Mike Brown recently told The Undefeated. The other seven NBA players are Chimezie Metu (Sacramento Kings), Miye Oni (Utah Jazz), Jordan Nwora (Milwaukee Bucks), Gabe Vince (Miami Heat), Josh Okogie (Minnesota Timberwolves), Jahlil Okafor (Detroit Pistons), and KZ Okpala (Miami Heat). Additionally, Michael Gbinije and Ekpe Udoh have NBA experience, and Brown himself is a veteran coach in the NBA.

In addition, they are professionals playing in leagues around the world. Including Europe especially where Nigerian players make for a stacked roster that will be pruned to a final twelve players for the Olympics. The game against the USA is amongst final preparations by Mike Brown and his coaching staff to assess their wealth of options, make final decisions, and fine-tune the team ahead of the game.

The additional boost came in the form of a blowout 94-71 win against Argentina’s basketball team on Monday night. In their dominant win against the fourth-ranked team in the world, D’Tigers were far less efficient from the 3-point line, but they made up for that by creating high-quality shots in and around the paint while continuing their strong defensive efforts to limit Argentina to a paltry 35.9% shooting from the field.

In its final game at the four-team round-robin exhibition games, held at the Michelob Ultra arena in Las Vegas, D’Tigers eulogised Sound Sultan, the Nigerian musician who recently passed due to throat cancer and was a Nigerian basketball advocate during his life. On Tuesday night, however, the team were on the receiving end of a blowout, losing 108-69 against the Australian Basketball team. Having beaten both the Argentina and USA teams in convincing fashion, the Boomers made slight work of the Nigerian team even though it rested four of its five regular starting superstars.

The second-string team was defensively dominant, holding D’Tigers to just 29 points by halftime and keeping the same energy in the third quarter to ensure the game’s outcome was pretty much sealed by the beginning of the final 10-minute quarter. Against Australia, D’Tigers were outplayed on both sides of the floor, struggling to create and knock down quality looks both from beyond the arc and in the paint area. They were a step behind defending a Boomers team that relied on blistering ball movement and great screens, with the team’s constant decision not to switch on ball screens allowing Australia to wreak havoc from behind the arc, led by Chris Goulding who scored 21 points and was a perfect 7-of-7 from 3-point.

Interestingly, D’Tigers will open their Olympics campaign against Australia, in a Group B match-up on July 25. They will also face Germany and Italy in their historic bid to make it out of the group phase. Considering their preceding two wins, the general feeling is that the blowout loss is only a bump in the road, and the team is expected to put up a good showing.

In the same vein, Nigeria’s women’s basketball team is also gearing up to compete at the Olympics. Similar to their male counterparts, the D’Tigress roster is packed with Nigerian-American talent, many of whom are current professionals in the WNBA and all of whom have played at the U.S collegiate level. This weekend, the team will be playing an exhibition game against Team USA, a high-level test against a country that has won the basketball gold medal at the last six Olympics.

Lack of government support

Following the men’s team wins, it became public knowledge that both basketball teams weren’t receiving financial support from the Nigerian government, despite these players doing their best to represent the country. It was also revealed that the NBBF was begging for the Nigerian customs to clear its Olympic kits, donated by Peak Milk. After complaints from Nigerians, the government hasn’t really budged, with the minister of youth and sports Dare Oni asking corporate bodies to adopt the teams through sponsorship. Thankfully, the request is being heeded, with three commercial banks donating a combined $200, 000, to be evenly split between both teams.

That amount is still far off from the million-dollar target speculated to be needed for the team’s competitive participation at the Tokyo Olympics, but the signs are positive. Earlier this week, Fintech unicorn Flutterwave announced that it would be partnering with D’Tigers, through an agreement with Friends of Nigerian Basketball (FONB). In addition to the sponsorship agreement, the platform will be the exclusive payment partner of D’Tigers, giving fans seamless access to donate and shop the team’s latest merchandise. It’s an extension of Flutterwave’s growing interest in fostering African unity through sports, especially basketball, following its recent collaboration with the Basketball Africa League (BAL) during its maiden edition.

In addition, the Nigerian government has intervened to ensure the release of the team’s Olympic kit, a long-overdue step that shouldn’t have been dragged out in the first. As usual, the Nigerian government is really leading by example, meaning that it’s on us to show the support our basketball teams deserve.

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At this juncture, be it financial or moral cheerleading, D’Tigers and D’Tigress need—and deserve—the support of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora as they aim for a worthwhile outing at the Olympics. We’ll certainly be rooting for them.

@dennisadepeter is a staff writer at the NATIVE.

ICYMI: DJ Poizon Ivy on her time as Music Coordinator for the 2021 Basketball Africa League

Osita Iheme’s memes are now available as NFTs

Posted on July 15, 2021July 15, 2021 by Wonu Osikoya

This year, we’ve heard more and more about NFTs than anything else. Over the last few months, these hot-button tokens have presented new channels for digital creators to monetise and immortalise their work.

Non Fungible Tokens have set the entertainment industry abuzz, bringing in a total of $2.1 billion in the first quarter of this year. Their value is in their exclusivity and scarcity, meaning the lower the number of an NFT available, the higher its value.

Osita Iheme, popularly known as PawPaw, has taken the Internet by storm over the past few years. There has been a gradual resurgence of his hilarious facial expressions as memes throughout the Internet. A meme of Osita Iheme is able to express regret, confusion, joy and so, they are increasingly versatile. Consequently, the actor is now stepping into a new realm, by minting these memes as Non-Fungible Tokens.

After laying a solid career foundation by impacting the cultural zeitgeist for many years, he’s now cashing in on his talents and inching Nigeria and Africa into a profitable revenue stream. The mobility of NFTs has no limit and stands as a benefit in these parts. It sidesteps the existing issues that make it difficult for young Nigerians to exist. It can be sold and traded by people all over the world, and its sales are recorded on the blockchain.

Speaking to The NATIVE about this recent drop, Osita Iheme said:

“It’s wonderful to know that your work is still there and it shows that for life its going to be there, so I’m delighted to see that my work is out there giving people joy and people using it to express their mind and relax”

Over the past few years, Osita Iheme has channelled his many talents with the aim to share with others who will need a platform as he did. Moreover, with a hotel, football club, and record label, he has his fingers in many pies, and it’s clearly time to eat. Shop his entire collection here:

Featured image credits/NATIVE

TurnTable and Boomplay announce landmark partnership

Posted on July 14, 2021July 16, 2021 by Dennis Ade Peter

In the year since being founded, TurnTable has made active moves in its goal to contextualise the state of music consumption in Nigeria. Currently, the platform publishes the TurnTable Top 50, the weekly chart that aggregates the most popular songs in the country across freemium streaming, radio airplay, and TV airplay.

These data points largely cover the most popular means of access to music amongst Nigerians, but the publication is looking towards adding numbers from paid streaming platforms to tell the fuller story of local music listening.

To this end, TurnTable has just announced a partnership with Boomplay, a streaming platofrm in Nigeria. It’s the first direct partnership between a streamer and music chart publication in Africa. Boomplay will distribute data on the most streamed songs in Nigeria to the publication.

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With a heavy emphasis on its African presence, and regional offices across Western and Eastern Africa, Boomplay has become a prominent music streamer on the developing continent, with over 59 million monthly active users as of May 2021. The collaboration with TurnTable will advance the noble aim of giving Nigerians insight into the top songs and artists across the country.

In the press statement, Tosin Sorinola, Director of Artist and Media Relations at Boomplay stated:

“With this new partnership, we are bringing Boomplay’s leadership in digital music across Africa together with TurnTable’s definitive music chart to give creators, artists and fans access to even more credible statistics they can rely on.”

Ayomide Oriowo, co-Editor-in-Chief of TurnTable charts agreed, noting that this is the publication’s first direct agreement with a streamer operating in Nigeria, a collaboration that will only bolster how music listening is represented by the numbers. The partnership will also provide better platform-specific analytics and reports, with listeners seeing how their listening habits affect the music terrain in real-time.

“Finally, with Boomplay as the largest music streaming service in Nigeria,” Ayomide says, “this is the first step to creating genre charts that puts the spotlight on other genres of music beyond popular music in Nigeria, as well as an albums chart that gives the performance of albums across all platforms.” TurnTable’s latest partnership is important, one step forward to helping Nigeria’s music ecosystem better understand itself as it evolves.

@dennisadepeter is a staff writer at the NATIVE.

ICYMI: Everything you need to know about the Recording Certification of Nigeria

What’s Going On: Civil unrest in South Africa & the pro-democracy protests in eSwatini

Posted on July 14, 2021 by Dennis Ade Peter

Our Latest Column, “What’s Going On”, Will Tally Notable News Headlines From Across The Continent — The Good, The Bad, And The Horrible — As A Way Of Ensuring That We All Become A More Sagacious African Generation. With This Column, We’re Hoping To Disseminate The Latest Happenings In Our Socio-Political Climate All Over The Continent, Whilst Starting A Conversation About What’s Important For Us To All Discuss. From Political Affairs To Socio-Economic Issues, ‘What’s Going On’, Will Discuss Just That.

Jacob Zuma’s imprisonment leads to civil unrest

On June 29, Jacob Zuma became the first South African president, post-Apartheid, to receive a prison sentence. The country’s constitutional court handed Zuma a 15-month sentence for contempt of court, after repeatedly flouting orders to appear and testify before the Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture—popularly referred to as the Zondo Commission. Headed by Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, the commission was set up in January 2018 by the former president, on recommendations from the Public Protector’s Advocate Thuli Madonsela, to investigate allegations of gross corruption and fraud.

Ironically, Zuma has found himself and his 9-year presidential term as the focal point of the commission’s investigations. A month after the commission was launched, he resigned following years of corruption allegations, especially due to suspicious ties with the affluent Gupta family. Even though he initially claimed to be interested in a single 5-year term, he stood for re-election and despite loud grumblings of misappropriation of state funds and mishandling of state structures, with financial reports estimating that Jacob Zuma’s presidency cost South Africa around one trillion rand. After being recalled by his political party (ANC) and facing a motion of no confidence from the Parliament, Zuma resigned.

In the time since exiting office, the state has brought up dozens of charges for corruption, fraud, money laundering, and more, dating back all the way to similar charges that led to him being ousted as Vice President in 2005. In addition to multiple court dates to answer for these charges, he’s been summoned to testify before the Zondo Commission, where he started his testimony on July 15, 2019. In this testimony, he claimed innocence and accused the commission of being a ploy to push him out of office and tarnish his name. After refusing to voluntarily re-appear in front of the commission, Zuma’s testimony was court-ordered and his constant refusal to submit to the ruling led to his prison sentence.

On July 7, Zuma turned himself in to the police, three days after the court’s deadline to do so. At his rural homestead in Nkandla, hundreds of his supporters gathered and were armed to prevent his arrest, showing how much goodwill he still garnered amongst many South Africans. A freedom fighter during the anti-Apartheid movement, Zuma was sentenced to ten years in prison, serving his term on the infamous Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela and several ANC leaders. This, alongside his rise from humble beginnings, has continuously endeared him to many who deem these charges and court trials as needless persecution fostered by current president Cyril Ramphosa and former allies turned foes.

Jacob Zuma’s arrest immediately led to protests in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal and parts of the country’s capital, Johannesburg. In KZN especially, the protests morphed into violent civil unrest, leading to vandalism, looting, arson, and the death of at least 45 persons. The chaos has affected shops and shopping centres, with many videos involving vandalism being shared on social media. To combat the unrest, the South African government sent in military forces to KZN earlier this week and there are videos of the police shooting at protesters and rioters with rubber bullets.

President Ramphosa has appealed to South Africans to stop the chaos, as it’s already spreading to the parts of Jo’burg, stating that “the path of violence, of looting and anarchy leads only to more violence and devastation. The next few days and months are crucial to bringing calm to KZN and all of South Africa, with the tussle being between Jacob Zuma’s popularity and the country’s ability to enforce the rule of law. It’s also indicative of a country with a rupture that needs wholesome healing.

Pro-Democracy protests in eSwatini met by state-sanctioned violence

King Mswati III of eSwatini is the last of an extinct class, he’s the only absolute monarch in Africa. In practice, though, he’s at home on a continent of dictators and autocratic rulers. Since succeeding his father in 1986, Mswati III has continued to uphold a system that keeps it foot firmly on the necks of its citizen. The landlocked kingdom of eSwatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is subject to the decision and whims of the king, giving him ultimate political power to appoint prime minister and cabinet members, helping him, his family and those in inner circles to benefit lavishly at the expense of the larger impoverished population.

For decades, the people of eSwatini have been agitating for a right to determine their leaders, but these calls to dilute the power of the monarchy have been done under repressive laws, including the banning of political parties since 1973. In late June, the latest bout of pro-Democracy protests took place, spurred by the death of law student Thabani Nkomonye allegedly at the hands of police. As is routine of oppressive regimes, brutality by state security agencies have been reportedly prevalent under King Mswati III, keeping citizens in a constant fear of state-sanctioned violence.

In addition to that fatal incident, the government announced a stop to the delivery of petitions calling for democratic reforms shortly after. Unsurprisingly, the government has issued contradictory replies for why it stopped the petition process. This catalysed people to take to the streets in protests, and flout the government orders to stop submitting petitions. Almost immediately, the regime implemented draconian measures, with security forces taking to the streets to use forceful and fatal measures to quell the protests. Several protesters, and even bystanders, were shot at, some gravely injured and others dead. Many other protesters were physically assaulted, including two journalists with South Africa-based publication, New Frame.

The government generally barred foreign journalists from entering the country’s borders, and an internet shutdown was instituted to restrict information. During the protests, it was reported that Mswati had fled to Johannesburg to wait out the protests, to which the eSwatini government denied, same way it’s continued denying that security agents are responsible for mass brutality towards unarmed protesters. Currently, the country is in an uneasy calm, a tense stalemate between the king’s men and the citizenry brought about by the excessive, lethal use of force by the former.

The (re-)arrest and intimidation of secessionist leaders in Nigeria

On June 29, Nigeria’s Attorney General Abubakar Malami announced the re-arrest of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). After being initially arrested, jailed and granted bail, Kanu fled Nigeria in September 2017 after soldiers invaded his home during a military operation. His location since has been unknown, which made his re-arrest a shock to many Nigerians. Malami stated that the arrest came about from “recent steps taken by the federal government [that] saw to the interception of the fugitive Kanu on Sunday, June 27, 2021.”

Following his re-arrest, Nnamdi Kanu’s trial on an eleven-count charge, including treason, illegal possession of firearms and terrorism, will resume at a federal high court in Abuja on July 27. Currently, there are questions on whether Kanu’s trial will be free and fair, especially with the murky details surrounding his re-arrest. The Nigerian government is still mum on how they managed to bring Kanu into custody, with reports alleging that he was abducted in Kenya with help from the East African government—the Kenyan government denies any involvement. According The Guardian, there’s evidence that Kanu entered Kenya earlier this year with his British passport on a visa expiring in June, and Sahara Reporters claim the passport is still in Kenya which would be damning evidence on both governments allegedly involved.

According to Kanu’s lawyer, Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, he was tortured for up to eight days by the Kenyan government at a clandestine location after being abducted, before being handed over to the Nigerian government. If true, the circumstances of Kanu’s re-arrest are gross violations under international law. Considering the President Buhari’s track record with due process and the rule of law, these allegations don’t seem far-fetched. On a few occasions, including during Kanu’s first arrest, his administration has disregarded court-ordered releases and bail grants.

Even going all the way back to his regime as a military dictator, he oversaw the attempted abduction of Umaru Dikko, the Transport minister in the Shagari administration that overthrew via a coup on the last day of 1983. Dikko fled the country shortly after General Buhari took power and found asylum in the UK, however, the dictator was adamant on bringing him back into the country to face corruption charges. The kidnap attempt was botched, and it soured diplomatic relations with the British government for a few years. Nnamdi Kanu is a British citizen, and the alleged circumstances of his arrest might be another Buhari déjà vu moment.

Days after Kanu’s re-arrest, Nigerian’s again woke up to news of the government going after another secessionist leader, this time it was Sunday Igboho. An advocate for the self-determination of the Yoruba people, mainly concentrated in the country’s south-west region, Igboho has emerged as a prominent figure in parochial politics, especially with regards to his role in commandeering Amotekun, the para-military outfit created in the region to stem attacks from armed herdsmen. In the early hours of July 1^st, armed men of the State Security Service (SSS) raided Igboho’s Ibadan residence, destroying valuable assets, allegedly killed two and took their bodies aways.

After initial denial, the SSS declared Sunday Igboho wanted—even though he was in the house during the raid. In a statement by the president, he commended the SSS for the raid, claiming Igboho had “been conducting acts of terror and disturbing the peace under the guise of protecting fellow ‘kinsmen’.” The raid was roundly condemned, especially for its timing, with human rights activist Femi Falana noting that no Nigerian law allows for an arrest in the dead of night, unless a crime is being committed. At the moment, Igboho’s whereabouts are unknown, but we can be sure Buhari and his administration will continue their attempts to clamp down on him—rather than direct some of that energy towards raging national insecurity—through legal and alleged illegal means.

[Featured Image Credits: Reuters]

@dennisadepeter is a staff writer at the NATIVE.

WHAT IS GOING ON: A ROUND UP OF PRIDE MONTH IN AFRICA

Songs Of The Summer: Ladipoe, Buju & More Lead The Charge This Week

Posted on July 13, 2021July 13, 2021 by Tami Makinde

The summer days are rolling in. With two weeks into July, the competition is fiercer than ever before. Last week’s highlights saw Wizkid and Tems’ “Essence” blazing across two charts, Olamide leading the pack, and Omah Lay winning over hearts and ears.

The third-week results are in and Ladipoe, Buju, Master KG, Burna Boy and more are topping the charts. This week, we’re doing things a little different bringing you only the highlights from all three charts. Dig in.

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Songs of the Summer Nigeria Chart

Ladipoe and Buju are dominating

This week, the TurnTable Top 50 and the Songs of the Summer Nigeria chart are both declaring Ladipoe and Buju’s “Feeling” as the No.1 song in the country. This is a monumental feat that is bolstered by the fact that Ladipoe is a rapper topping mainstream charts.

Lojay and Sarz is a divine pairing

Following the release of their joint EP ‘LV N ATTN’, Lojay and Sarz join the rankings of formidable artist-producer pairings. This week, they’re in the charts once again with “Tonongo” which has moved up one spot this week from No.15 last week to No.14. The song generated 76300 total streams and 20320305 impressions in airplay.

AV makes his debut on the charts

After making his entry on the TurnTable Top 50 this month, rising Nigerian singer AV has now made his official debut on the Songs of the Summer Nigeria chart. This week, he debuts at No.15 after the song garnered 1108666 total streams.

African Songs of the Summer Chart

Master KG is undefeated

It’s been over a year since South African DJ and producer, Master KG released his smash hit “Jerusalema” featuring Nomcebo Zikode. Yet, the song is still making strides across the continent. This week, continuing from his earlier winning streak, Master KG’s “Jerusalema” is in the top spot on the African Songs of the Summer chart. It drew over 10 million streams and over 340 million radio airplay impressions worldwide during the tracking week.

MasterKG also has the No. 2 songs in the chart as he links up with world-famous DJ, David Guetta and singer, Akon for his new release titled “Shine Your Light”. The single is also currently enjoying wide success globally.

Burna Boy is in first place

This week, the Grammy award-winning artist has four entries on the chart. “Kilometre” remains at its No.4 spot from last week with 2,7659,249 total airplay impressions and a total cumulative of 421,522 streams. Elsewhere on the charts, his other releases such as “On The Low” rises from No.8 to No.7 this week and “Ye” from No.10 to No.8. It’s a great week for Burna Boy.

Global Nigerian Songs of the Summer Chart

Essence is on a winning streak

Over the past month, “Essence” has been on a winning streak. All across social media timelines, the magic that Wizkid and Tems created is picking up steam despite being released last year. This week, it’s attained new heights by making its debut entry on the Billboard Top 100 charts at No.82. Similarly, it remains a mainstay on the charts this week retaining its No.1 spot.

Gyakie is still making waves

Fresh Meat alum, Gyakie has taken off in a big way this year. Since releasing her debut EP ‘Seed’ earlier last year, her single “Forever” instantly became a fan favourite. This year, she followed it up with the song’s official remix featuring Omah Lay which has been a mainstay on the TurnTable Top 50. This week, on the charts, the song moves up one spot from No.15 to No.14.

Mavin lead the pack

Since the beginning of the summer, Mavin artists have dominated the charts. This week, Ruger and Rema are mainstays on the chart packing 4 entries in total between them. Rema’s “Soundgasm”, the first promotional single from his forthcoming debut album is in the Top 3 this week after moving up one spot from last week. Elsewhere on the chart, Ruger’s “Bounce” makes its way from No.15 to No.14 this week.

You can see a full breakdown of the charts here.

Featured image credits/NATIVE

ICYMI: In celebration of Sound Sultan, Nigerian pop music’s everyman

In celebration of Sound Sultan, Nigerian pop music’s everyman

Posted on July 13, 2021 by Dennis Ade Peter

On Sunday morning, the family of Olanrewaju Fasasi—popularly known as Sound Sultan—announced the passing of the Nigerian singer and songwriter, due to complications from throat cancer. Without an iota of hyperbole, Sound Sultan died an Afropop legend. Breaking out in the early 2000s, after years of toiling in the underground, he was prolific and prominent for well over a decade, turning out a sizable line-up of hit singles, classic songs, and an album catalogue that is generally stellar.

In terms of longevity, consistency in quality and impact on modern Nigerian pop music, with respect to his breakout period, Sound Sultan belongs in a unicorn class. Where many of his popular colleagues from the time faded out creatively within a few years, the singer wasn’t just reliable, he was inventive for the majority of his career. Perhaps inarguably, he belongs in the same bracket as 2Baba—fka 2Face Idibia—the current epitome of staying relevant and aging gracefully in Nigerian pop music. Unlike 2Baba, though, Sultan wasn’t always met with the same amount of loud and omnipresent reverence, which is somewhat understandable all things considered. This meant, however, that he didn’t get to receive his flowers the way he ought to have, before passing.

I hate that it sometimes takes death to put the importance of people in perspective. The most recent post on Sound Sultan’s Instagram page is a clip from the music video for Patoranking’s latest single, “Celebrate Me.” While he was simply showing support for a colleague’s release, his passing added a haunting undertone to the post, with relation to the message of Patoranking’s song: “Appreciate me now wey I dey alive.” By industry chatter, though, and even in the way he generally conducted himself, Sound Sultan was never one to be embittered by not being constantly fawned over for his long-term excellence.

In January 2019, I was in the presence of Sound Sultan—I’m using the word presence because we barely exchanged sentences. It was backstage at a live show where he was a special guest. Instead of being swarmed by the dozens of people who witnessed his arrival, there was a quiet awe that acknowledged his presence, and he didn’t take long to cut the relative silence by declaring, “Hey, everyone, my name is Sultan.” Immediately, people began walking up to him for selfies, to which he happily obliged. Embarrassed to take out my terrible android phone at the time, amongst the sea of better phones with better cameras, I simply walked up and told him I was a fan, to which he responded with warm and playful appreciation.

That wasn’t the last time I met Sound Sultan—we exchanged a few sentences nearly a year later—but it frames how I’ve decided to handle his passing, away from the initial shock, away from the idea that we should have revered him much more, and focusing on celebrating his excellence even if it’s still deeply saddening. For me, Sound Sultan is a hero. Like many, the starting point was “Mathematics,” the ubiquitous single that made him popular. The song is a humorous and incisive piece of socio-political commentary that, like all similarly-minded songs, is resonant and remains relevant to Nigeria’s socio-political conditions. In my adolescent mind, it was a catchy tune with a playful video featuring kids younger than me.

In his prolonged prime, Sound Sultan was, amongst many things, a social observer and a compulsive truth-teller. Some of the most popular songs in his discography are honest renderings of the Nigerian experience, and while approaches varied by song they were always potent. “Motherland,” the Folk-Pop hit released upon signing to Kennis Music, is simultaneously an admonishment to Nigerian emigrants to keep home in their hearts and a prayer that Nigeria stops actively feeding the emigration dreams with its terrible conditions. A few years later, he’d team up with 2Face and W4 for “Ole (Bushmeat),” a satirical take on the ever-pervasive corruption amongst Nigeria’s political class.

Around the time “Ole” was released, I was in my teens and my music taste was at its most impressionable. Luckily, it coincided with what I still regard as Sound Sultan’s apex period as an artist. Upon completion of his contractual obligations with Kennis Music, Sultan began releasing music under Naija Ninjas, the indie label he co-founded with his elder brother and rapper Baba Dee. The first two albums on this arrangement were 2008’s SS4 and 2010’s Back to the Future, both the strongest pillars within the structure of his musical legacy.

On most days, I consider Back to the Future to be Sultan’s opus, a front-to-back representation of the attributes that made the singer a special and singular talent. Traversing varying musical choices, the album found Sultan in the greatest control of his voice, a uniquely ringing tool which he used like a Swiss Army knife. On the retro-Soul intro, “Omo,” he coos alongside then R&B star Lami; for “Hello Baale,” his masterful storytelling is heightened by an aptly dramatic vocal cadence; and he trades raps with eLDee on the boisterous “Born on a Saturday.” It also had its fair share of culturally impactful hits, including “Orobo,” a celebration of plus-sized women that significantly predates Davido’s “Risky,” the M.I Abaga-assisted “2010” which decried Nigeria’s epileptic power supply, and “Very Good Bad Guy” with Banky W, one of the most popular quips in the time where Blackberry Messenger statuses were the in-thing.

I lived with Sound Sultan’s fifth studio LP during a time where my biggest concern was getting into Uni. For a while, I struggled to fully articulate my reverence for the album beyond my positive impressions of the singer’s craft. Years later—not too long before I first met the man, in fact—I realised my gravitation to Back to the Future and Sound Sultan in those years is because he was Nigerian pop music’s everyman. Sound Sultan’s music revelled in the quotidian reality of Nigeria, taking palpable inspiration from his life and the lives of those in his surroundings. His music was always grounded in a way that reflected proximity to Nigerian life and Nigerian lives. Think about it, he was a huge star with a steady stream of hit singles without a larger-than-life persona.

Sound Sultan used his artistic specialness in service of making music that deeply resonated with its intended primary listeners: Nigerians making their way and finding little joys in an unideal system. He personified the musical omnivorousness well before genre-mashing was a sonic description, he prioritised lived-in writing, and his song-craft hinged on accessibility. In the last decade, he wasn’t as prolific as usual, especially after 2012’s Me, Myself & Eye. On his last two albums, 2016’s Out of the Box and last year’s 8th Wondah, Sound Sultan wasn’t operating at the peak of his powers but they presented an artist whose passion for making music for “ordinary” Nigerians was intact. Even as his output slowed and his mainstream presence waned, Sound Sultan remained committed to the music.

Passing away at the young age of 44 is entirely heart-breaking, but as it stands, Sound Sultan’s legacy as one of the finest and most endearing artists in Afropop history is indisputable. Rest in peace, Lanre Fasasi. May your legend be greater in death than it was during your wonderful artistic life.

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@dennisadepeter is a staff writer at the NATIVE.

ICYMI: Remembering Tony Allen, a bonafide African music hero

‘Day of Destiny’, ‘2 Weeks in Lagos’ & More On Netflix This July

Posted on July 13, 2021July 13, 2021 by Wonu Osikoya

In an ever-changing world, people are constantly looking for engaging entertainment. Thus, streaming platforms have to compete for user satisfaction. Netflix, one of the largest streaming platforms continues to meet this demand by pivoting into new territories.

Its recent expansion into pan-African-focused content only enlarges its global reach. All year, titles such as ‘Sugar Rush’, ‘Citation’ and ‘Oloture’ have become fan favourites in these parts. This month, Netflix Naija is acquiring more Nigerian titles including ‘Rattlesnake’, Akay Mason and Abosi Ogba’s ‘Day of Destiny’, and more.

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As we’re already halfway into the month, some of these titles are already showing. However, we’ve got you covered on a complete list of movies and series to expect this July alongside their expected arrival dates. Enjoy.

Rattlesnake – The Ahana Story

02/07/21

After Ahanna Okolo’s life as he knows it ends, he decided to steal the life he always wanted. He has one rule – No bloodshed. He sets up a team to pull off an incredible heist but his crimes make too many enemies.

Last Request

07/07/21

Danny must marry a wife and have a child after being diagnosed with a terminal illness in order to appease his father. This request has his family spiraling out of control.

Day of Destiny (D.O.D)

13/07/21

D.O.D is the thrilling adventure of two teenage boys, Chidi and Rotimi, who seize an opportunity to travel back in time and change their peniless parents’ past, directed by Akay Mason and Abosi Ogba.

2 Weeks In Lagos

16/07/21

2 weeks in Lagos is an exciting journey into the lives of Ejikeme and Lola. Their lives cross paths when Ejikeme, an investment banker returns to Lagos from the US with Charlie, who is also Lola’s brother. They fall in love and get married despite his family’s plans for him to marry a politician’s daughter.

Santitation Day

21/07/21

When a man is brutally murdered, 4 suspects emerge. Two cops contend with the uncooperative tenants of an apartment to try and solve this case. However, the police have till 10 AM to deal with the case before the crime scene is wiped clean.

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ICYMI: The importance of women sharing their experiences through music

We spoke to some Wizkid fans about Superstar

Posted on July 13, 2021July 13, 2021 by The Native

Wizkid’s star power is undeniable, and each career arc in his decade at the top has been more refined and potent than the last. His most recent effort, ‘Made in Lagos’, which was released in a year of great personal and political change for many Nigerians, is a full-circle moment of sorts. Today, it’s still topping charts today despite being released 9 months ago.

Wizkid has spent years priming himself for this global moment, ever since he was dominating the streets of Lagos as Lil Prinz all through to 2011 when he signed with Banky W under Empire Mates Entertainment (EME). This culminated in the release of his debut album ‘Superstar’, the place where it all began.

At the turn of the decade, Nigerian music was undergoing a silent revolution with the likes of P-Square, 2Face, Mo’Hits, and more, pushing the sound globally while conquering ground at home and within Africa. At the time, while their music was quickly gaining steam in the clubs and weddings that characterised much of our social lives as Nigerians, a new star was emerging–one who would accurately represent and champion the new generation of young listeners clamouring for representation.

It’s hard to explain the importance of Wizkid’s ‘Superstar’ to anyone who didn’t grow up in 2010’s Nigeria. At the start of the decade, Wizkid released “Holla At Your Boy”, the charming earworm track that served as his official introduction as a solo artist. In the music video, Wizkid showed off his boyish charms and effortless swag in plaid t-shirts, snapbacks and skinny jeans, all staple sartorial choices at the time. Wizkid fast became a cult figure, inspiring similar fashion styles, gimmicks and sounds in many young people who were quick to crown him as the poster boy for the Nigerian Gen Z at the time.

At the time, piracy was rife within the country and it wouldn’t have been uncommon to see a cracked mp3 audio file with the title “Wizkid_dont_dull_NotJustOK.mp3” on many of our phones. CDs were also the main source of distribution and music consumption at the time, with Alaba market and its many iterations becoming the hotspot for staying on the pulse with all the best tunes of the time.

Revisiting the album after 10 years, it’s clear that it immortalised a time in Afropop’s history. Even this much longer after release, there still seem to be no skips, and the songs always there to lift the mood and spur everyone’s best dance moves. ‘Superstar’ is forever young and to look back on it now is to realise how fast it has all changed for Wizkid and for Afropop.

To this end, The NATIVE spoke with some die-hard Wizkid FC members about the album turning 10 years and what feels like the most defining moment of Starboy’s career. Here’s how they feel.

Oge (32)

Top 3: “Holla At Your Boy”, “Don’t Dull”, “Tease Me”

What was your first impression of ‘Superstar’ and where did you first hear the album?

For me, I’ll say my first impression was that it was a great album with fresh sounds, fresh looks and a modern taste. I was in my final year when that came out at the time.

Looking back at 10 years of ‘Superstar’, how would you measure Wizkid’s career impact over time?

Wizkid is ever-evolving. He has made a huge impact on Afrobeats globally and will forever be remembered for it.

Chubby (27)

Top 3: “Pakurumo”, “For Me”, “Don’t Dull”/“Holla At Your Boy”

What was your first impression of ‘Superstar’ and where did you first hear the album?

I bought the album oh! That year. I had the hard copy even back when I was in uni. On my way to school, I would listen to the album on my computer.

Looking back at 10 years of ‘Superstar’, how would you measure Wizkid’s career impact over time?

‘Superstar’ is a complete album. The replay value is 100%. It doesn’t sound old and has aged very well over the years. The versatility of Wizkid on that album sort of shaped his sound now.

Ebube (30)

Top 3: “Pakurumo”, “For Me”, “Don’t Dull”

What was your first impression of ‘Superstar’ and where did you first hear the album?

I had a great album experience listening to Superstar at the time and I was amazed at how a very young boy came out of nowhere to clearly define the trajectory of the Afropop genre. I think I was in school at the time.

Looking back at 10 years of ‘Superstar’, how would you measure Wizkid’s career impact over time?

I can categorically say that album paved the way for a lot of young artists in the industry. It helped a lot of other artists build confidence in their storytelling, and also in infusing their life experiences into songs.

Damilola (32)

Top 3: “For Me”, “Scatter the Floor”, “Love My Baby”

What was your first impression of ‘Superstar’ and where did you first hear the album?

I was in London, depressed because I failed one of my modules and had to resit the exam that summer (this meant I couldn’t graduate with my friends). This album got me through that dark time.

Looking back at 10 years of ‘Superstar’, how would you measure Wizkid’s career impact over time?

It’s still Wizkid’s best album in my opinion so please argue in your compounds.

Misola (33)

Top 3: “For Me”, “Tease Me”, “Scatter the Floor”

What was your first impression of ‘Superstar’ and where did you first hear the album?

I knew our boy was going to be a ‘soup or star’. From featuring on M.I’s “Fast Money, Fast Cars” to Jesse Jagz’s “Intoxicated” and D’Prince’s “Jonzing World”.

Looking back at 10 years of ‘Superstar’, how would you measure Wizkid’s career impact over time?

I go back for original Wizzy. ‘Ayo’ is my favourite album from him though.

Dayo (28)

Top 3: “No Lele”, “Oluwa Lo Ni”, “Pakurumo”

What was your first impression of ‘Superstar’ and where did you first hear the album?

I thought it was a fun album. Nothing mature or deep about it.

Looking back at 10 years of ‘Superstar’, how would you measure Wizkid’s career impact over time?

I think it set the stage for Nigeria’s biggest superstar but to me, the album itself is not as significant as the artist.

Afoma (25)

Top 3: “Love My Baby”, “No Lele”, “Pakurumo”

What was your first impression of ‘Superstar’ and where did you first hear the album?

I think I heard this back in Law School. It was new and fresh and I had never heard of Wizkid before.

Looking back at 10 years of ‘Superstar’, how would you measure Wizkid’s career impact over time?

Honestly, 10 years later, it’s probably still my favourite Wizkid album.

Jane (29)

Top 3: “No Lele”, “Pakurumo”, “Wiz Party” (Honourable mention: Gidi Girl)

What was your first impression of ‘Superstar’ and where did you first hear the album?

I loved it instantly. I don’t remember where I was for the album since I used to buy most albums as soon as they came out but I do remember the first time I heard “Holla At Your Boy”, a year before 2010. I was in the car about to be dropped off at my internship on McCarthy Street one morning and I was late to work but lingered in the car just so I could hear the OAP say the name of the song on the radio. They didn’t and there was so no Shazam at the time so I had to hunt for it weeks after.

Looking back at 10 years of ‘Superstar’, how would you measure Wizkid’s career impact over time?

I think Wizkid was the first proper superstar of our time (younger, Nigerian millenials that is). Now, people fawn over Machala and he has his own stan club but back then, I remember Twitter people clowned him and the album initially for being razz. I will neevr forget a tweet from someone shortly after the album release saying that it was so bad that he threw the CD away. 10 years later, there can be no argument that ‘Superstar’ is a great listen, back to back. I think Wizkid knew exactly who he was on ‘Superstar’ and has stayed on the course influencing the Afropop sound heavily. Wizkid has grown and played with his sound over the years but to me, he’s still true to ‘Superstar’.

Revisit ‘Superstar’ below.

Featured image credits/Superstar

ICYMI: Made in Lagos, Set for glory

Bruk It Down: The Making Of P.Priime, Olamide & Bad Boy Timz’s hit, ‘Loading’

Posted on July 12, 2021November 24, 2021 by Damilola Animashaun

Bruk It Down, a video series shining a light on the producers and beat-makers behind the scenes, as they break down the intricacies of the songs we listen to every day. In the fourth edition of our NATIVE Original, P.Priime walks us through the making of the song of 2020, “Loading”.

In October last year, Olamide released his eighth solo studio album, ‘Carpe Diem’. On the same day, online agitations against police brutality in the country had begun to escalate into full-blown protests. Music was one of the brightest spots to lift our spirits during this desolate time, and in the following months, Olamide’s “Loading” was undoubtedly one of the brightest.

After linking up by chance and hearing what Priime had to offer, Olamide changed the entire flow of the album we hear today which gave Priime 7 producer credits on the 15 track album. Speaking to The NATIVE when ‘Carpe Diem‘ dropped, Olamide said

“His sound is heavy, man. It’s bonkers. That guy is mad! Like, really mad. I feel like, while coming up, no one gave me that opportunity. I just took it upon myself that, if I blow lasan, I must share my blessings. What’s the purpose of the blessing if you cannot share it around? It’s useless when you just want to be greedy, you don’t want to help in elevating as much people as you can. “

And elevate he did. Thanks to “Loading”, Priime has gone from relatively unknown to one of the generation’s most important musicians. For our fourth Bruk It Down, the producer walks us through how he made the song; drew influence from Amapiano, South Africa’s most popping genre at the moment, and melded it with Nigerian afropop sounds. From the vocal samples he lay down himself, to Bad Boy Timz’ infectious ad libs, here’s how “Loading” was made.

Featured Image Credits: NATIVE

Videography: Omowunmi Ogundipe, Producer: Damilola Animashaun