Quizzes

Stacks

Shows

Podcasts

Newsletters

Naira Life

Love Life

Hustleprint

Love Currency

Sunken Ships

What She Said

My Bro

So You Don’t Have To

Interview With…

Zikoko Memes

Jollof Road

Cholera Outbreak Update

Follow our socials

  • It’s now casual doings for afrobeats to break or set one or two records daily. And performing at the biggest sport events in the world is just part of it. We compile all the times our music has been on these iconic stages.

    Several CAF Awards

    This organisation is obviously a huge fan of afrobeats. Everyone from Yemi Alade and Korede Bello (2016) to Wizkid (2017) and Tiwa Savage (2017 and 2022) have graced that stage. And it’s hard to forget Flavour’s 2016 performance with the cultural dancers and masquerade.

    2022 World Cup final

    Two major historical things happened at this huge event. France became the first team to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final and lose. And it was the first time the competition would put out a theme song collection, featuring different international artists. Davido was one of them, making him the first Nigerian musician to perform on a FIFA World Cup stage, joining Senegal’s Youssou N’Dour and Benin Republic’s Angelique Kidjo.

    2022 World Tennis League commencement ceremony

    On the 20th of December, 2022, Wizkid made history as the first and only afrobeats artist to perform at the league’s commencement ceremony, alongside Ne-Yo and Armin van Buuren. At the Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai, Wiz entertained the multicultural audience with hit songs like Azonto, Fever, Soco and Mood.

    READ: How Much Would Nigerian Musicians Cost if They Were Professional Footballers?

    2023 NBA All-Stars halftime show

    It was a three-peat moment for afrobeats at the 72nd All-Stars halftime show, as Tems, Burna Boy and Rema gave the U.S. basketball audience a taste of African rhythm and sounds. Burna performed Anybody and It’s Plenty, Rema followed with Calm Down and Holiday, ushering in Tems to close the performance with Crazy Things, Free Mind and her verses from Wizkid’s Essence and Future’s Wait For U. Nigerian music went from playing on NBA stars’ Instagram stories to featuring live on their game court.

    2022/2023 Champions League final

    After Burna sold out a stadium in London, it’s well-deserved that he’d headline the UEFA Champions League’s opening ceremony of the final game. The world’s greatest football club competition, hosted Burna Boy in Istanbul, where he performed a medley of It’s Plenty and Last Last and gave further proof that he’s one of afrobeats’ greatest performers.

    Quai54 2022

    The world’s biggest streetball tournament finally made its return after the 2020 pandemic in July 2022. And Yemi Alade, 1da Banton, Fally Ipupa and DaBaby were invited to Paris to give some electrifying performances. While Yemi Alade’s music isn’t new to French-speaking communities, the crowd didn’t spare Ida Banton’s music any excitement. 

    2023 African Nations Championship (CHAN)

    https://youtu.be/BmO1B7bATSg

    The afrobeats movement took centre stage at CHAN’s closing ceremony, as CKay took the gospel of Love Nwantiti and Emiliano to over 40,000 people. They turned the sad romance tunes into a rave at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Baraki, Algiers. Seeing as artists like CKay and Burna Boy are gracing major stages, there may be benefits to eating breakfast after all.

    Take our survey here.

  • The world’s number one Scotch Whisky brand partnered with Grammy award-winning producer Sarz to celebrate his musical journey in the Nigerian music scene. And when Johnnie Walker is in your system, and Sarz’s sound mix is setting the mood, you know you’re about to have a good time.

    In honour of the collaboration and celebration of the Nigerian creative industry’s progress, we look at how Sarz is contributing to and inspiring new sounds coming out of Africa.

    If you’re an afrobeats enthusiast, you’ve likely heard the producer tag “beat by Sarz”, “Sarz on the beat”, and more recently, “Really”. Born Osabuohien Osaretin, Sarz is a music producer and DJ who’s been killing it in the music industry for more than ten years.

    Since he made his first hit, Jahbless’s Joor Oh remix in 2010, Sarz has been ahead of many others. Known for his unique approach to production, he’s carved out his niche, and it has placed him high on the list of seasoned producers from Nigeria. Sarz has produced for global artists like Beyoncé, Drake, Chris Brown and Skepta.

    And out of a zeal to help budding producers and songwriters, he officially established the Sarz Academy (in partnership with YouTube) in 2015. Over 500 creatives have passed through the academy so far. Through it, he’s mentored popular names like D-Tunes, Jay Pizzle, Kel-P, Legendury Beatz, P.Priime, Dunni, Tempoe, who’ve gone on to be huge successes.

    In 2019, Sarz made a very bold statement with his first solo body of work, Sarz Is Not Your Mate, an instrumentals-only project to remind his colleagues and the public that he has no match. The same year, he performed his first major DJ set at Gidifest. In 2020, Sarz set himself apart further when he put out his debut sound packs of numerous drum kits, Afrobeats loops, FX, textures, guitar rhythms, for producers to sample and loop on Splice.

    His dedication and adventurous spirit has edged him forward to be the partner and focus of Johnnie Walker’s 2023 “Walkers Mix” event. Attended by popular musicians, media personalities such as Reminisce, Wurld, Vee (former BBNaija housemate).

    The party became more interesting with games and fun activities like Jenga and painting, shots, cocktails and spin on Sarz’s exclusive beats.

    In the spirit of camaraderie, we bask in the brilliance of remarkable talents that mold our world, like an enchanting symphony, resonating with every heartbeat. Raise your glasses high and toast to the brilliant partnership between Johnnie Walker and Sarz, the masterminds behind indelible memories, alongside the boundless creative community that ignites our collective inspiration!

  • Artistes are stepping up and sharing personal experiences about mental health, which is bringing the topic into the spotlight and inspiring others to open up too.

    June is men’s mental health month and though it may come as news to some men, we hope it becomes a normalised culture that won’t need reminder at its time. Here are a few deep-cut songs,with themes around mental health that men should listen to.

    Trigger Warning: there are mentions of suicide and suicidal thoughts. 

    Duade — Show Dem Camp ft. Cina Soul

    In 2019, SDC released its classic album, Clone Wars IV: These Buhari Times; an audio-documentary of the Nigerian political, cultural and mental ecosystem. The fourth track, Duade, (featuring Ghanaian singer-songwriter Cina Soul,) explores the topic of masculinity and depression. Tec opens the song with a message about how men in this part of the world don’t have an outlet to talk and often grow up thinking it’s wrong to express themselves emotionally or be vulnerable. 

    A Self Evaluation of Yxng Dxnzl — M.I Abaga ft. Niyola

    This song starts with a voice note of M.I’s mum telling him to always do the right things and not forget where he comes from. But all M.I wants to do is “drink, fuck, smoke, chill, party all day still,” with an admission that he’s been battling a deep depression and can be the worst guy sometimes.

    This song comes from his most vulnerable piece of art, Yxng Dxnzl (A Study on Self Evaluation). Across the ten-track album, listeners experience the rapper at his most human and honest form, tying mental health awareness with his personal journey, insecurities and short samples of his therapy sessions at the end of each song.

    Wetin We Gain — Victor AD

    Wetin We Gain was one of the biggest hits of 2018. Apart from its catchy chorus and relatability, different meanings (like quick wealth and internet scams) have been attached to the song, in opposition to its actual message; a cry to the heavens for a breakthrough. But it’s even deeper. The most memorable lines of the song expresses the daily fear of average Nigerian men, who feel pressure to be the breadwinners of their families.

    I’m A Mess — Omah Lay

    After his latest release, Boy Alone Deluxe, we can all agree Omah Lay is the current Nigerian poster boy for vulnerability and emotional travails. On I’m A Mess, he deeply expresses his broken heart, sadness, and finding escape in liquor. Baring age and gender, everyone can relate to this song due simplicity, both in production and lyricism.

    It’s Okay To Cry — Yinka Bernie ft. Joyce Olong

    Nigerian multidisciplinary artist Yinka Bernie accurately describes the feeling of being stuck; an experience that a lot people today can relate to, on Joyce Olong-assisted It’s Okay To Cry. Inspired by personal experiences which made Bernie doubt his music career; he soothes listeners with an encouraging message of hope and the acceptance of vulnerability: “It’s okay to cry, it’s okay to feel lost inside.” This song feels like reassurance in audio form.

    Submit your story here.

    Odeshi — Alpha Ojini ft. Ogranya

    Alpha Ojini’s Tears Are Salty For A Reason EP is filled with deep cuts tracks of vulnerability, but Odeshi explores masculinity and mental health profoundly. Ogranya lays a chorus that expresses bottling up tears and other emotions, and Alpha details struggling with mom’s demise and the ‘manly’ approach his tough dad gave him to deal with the long-time grief. All of this is coupled with the mental stress of surviving Nigeria and an ex serving him breakfast. Ogranya ends the song with “I go still commit” which translates to taking one’s own life; an expression of the last resort if the darkness doesn’t stop hovering over him. It’s a powerful record that reminds one why mental health is important and issues shouldn’t be bottled.

    A Song About Suicide (Mr. Babalawo Reprise) — PayBac iBoro

    Nigerian rapper PayBac iBoro has been a big advocate of mental health since he made an official entry into the Nigeria music industry in 2015. On his 2018 album, The Biggest Tree (his present to all depressed West African kids), is A Song About Suicide. PayBac expresses strong suicidal thoughts and his final wishes after he’s gone, over a dark fusion of Afrobeats, African percussion, trumpets sounds — all instruments you’d find at interments. Overall, the song is based on his fight to hold tightly to life and his beloved family and friends.

    Dance In The Rain — 2face Idibia

    This is one of 2Baba’s greatest recordings. A record that pushes a message of deep appreciation for life and enjoying it, taking every breath of air, being present in the moment and staying open to possibilities. In a period like this, this song is a good refresher and great reminder to chin up and stay positive.

    How Bad Could It Be — Burna Boy

    Off of Burna Boy’s 2022 album Love, Damini, this song opens with the voices of U.K singer Jorja Smith, Nigerian boxer Kamaru Usman, dropping statements about self-control; and making rational decisions during intense situations. Burna Boy glides on the guitar and laid-back beat that accompanies it, singing about the punctures of anxiety and dreadful feeling of searching for answers in the wrong places.

    take a break — Odunsi (The Engine)

    Odunsi talks about his mom’s constant complaints about his absence from home. But she needs to understand he’s been busy working hard to achieve success and make her proud. If he’s not making things happen for himself, who else will? These are some of the mentally-challenging situations inspired by his personal experience, the song encourages resting and recharging to avoid burnout.

  • We agree not everyone can dance to save their lives, but at least, they can avoid dancefloor embarrassments and still shine with these tricks.

    Spray money

    Nobody cares about how you’re moving to music when you start throwing money on the dance floor like Obi Cubana. Matter of fact, make sure you do it when Billionaire Onye Ji Cash starts playing.

    Source: Gifer

    Do the auntie dance

    You can’t fail with a little two-step dance. Put some back into it for a little razzle dazzle. Whether it’s Wizkid, Yemi Alade or Asake, you can two-step into anything. 

    Source: Zikoko Memes

    Throw up gang signs

    Gun fingers or peace signs, just throw your hands and fingers in the air like you don’t care. Isn’t that the spirit of a true party?

    Source: Meme Finder

    Move like you’re in a music video

    Imagine you’re the main character of the last music video you saw and act like it. People won’t see fraud, they’ll see passion. For starters, study how Tiwa Savage, Davido and Rema perform in their music videos.

    Source: Zikoko Memes

    READ: 8 Reasons Why The Nigerian Government Must Ban Legwork

    Scream along to the music

    A real screamer knows they’re the true life of any dance floor. They have the most vim to raise the energy of the room when it’s low. But don’t forget the rule of thumb: know the song lyrics.

    Source: Zikoko Memes

    Or continue dancing rubbish

    Why should your ability stop you from dancing? Rubbish today, nonsense tomorrow, and you may eventually shaku shaku. Practice makes perfect.

    Source: Zikoko Memes

    Watch others

    Just sit down and pretend you’re from Wakanda. In your quietness, you’ll learn from watching others. There’s no need to stress yourself. Your time will come.

    Source: Zikoko Memes

    Tell the DJ to turn off the music

    No dance, no embarrassment. But they’ll beat you sha.

    Source: Zikoko Memes

    Take our survey here.

  • About nine months ago, Asake solidified his fresh and unique sound with his debut album Mr. Money With the Vibes — an album that went on to influence the current soundscape of the industry with log drums and choral backups. Back with a taste for paintings, Asake is set to take us on artistic vibrations with his new album, Work of Art.

    Prior to his debut album, Asake first made a colourful splash on the scene with his EP Ololade Asake, which took Nigerians straight to the dance floors. Carefully fusing Afropop with styles that slowly creep into Fuji and Apala, Asake sang about having money, a good time and being streetwise. With MMWTV, Asake became the biggest breakout star Nigeria has ever seen with the biggest album of the year and the most streams for an artist, culminating in a recent BET award nomination. It’s Asake’s world and the rest of us are just paying rent and agency fees.  

    In the buildup to his latest, Work of Art, Asake released three songs, Yoga, 2:30 and Amapiano, and they were all number one singles on Official Nigeria Top 100. In all this, Asake hasn’t strayed from the fast life narrative. But while we enjoy the omo jaiye jaiye persona, the important question is: will it keep fans to their feet like it did nearly ten months ago?

    The Breakdown

    Asake opens the album with a mouth full of gratitude to God who translates to Olorun (the opening track title) in Yoruba. On this record, he recalls his life’s journey, the hard times and his meteoric rise. The introspective track is followed by the indulgent Awodi in which he continues the story of his successes and turns Pasuma’s name into wordplay. Early single, 2:30 comes after and it fits in seamlessly, picking up the pace of his Amapiano-inspired direction. Asake asks what the probability of anyone catching up to him is, or if they have the agility to even move. 

    On Sunshine, Ololade Asake becomes more flexible. The song is a shift from his usual pattern (stripped down beat, minimal horns, whistle and choral backups), but still manages to deliver a light-hearted message of motivation. 

    Maintaining a similar direction to Sunshine production-wise, Asake shifts gears to Mogbe which finds Olamide’s protégé in top form, with infectious lyrics about having a good time. Basquiat, the sixth track named after the famous American painter, Jean Micheal-Basquiat finds Asake in his artistic bag, comparing himself to a priceless work of art. After the year that was 2022, Asake’s worth on the music scene fully reflects his position on this track. The Olamide-assisted Amapiano enters next to subtly remind us of their exotic lifestyles and the overall sound the album sets to achieve.

    The party continues with What’s Up My G and I Believe, songs complete with log drums, drawn out storytelling and braggadocious lyrics meant to assert his dominance. At this point, it’s clear the plan is to keep us dancing— he reminded us again on Introduction that he’s Mr. Money with a sprinkle of no food for a lazy man.

    Asake admonishes his lover to “give it to him” while flexing his big vocabulary muscles on Remember. Lonely At the Top follows and switches up the ambience, now in a more solemn but groovy mood; Asake shows some vulnerability and preaches self-love. We’re with him on this.

    Before you proceed, take our survey here.

    Mr. Money’s fun isn’t stopping anytime. He flexes on Great Guy about catching flights, wearing the finest satin, and being in his woman’s bosom. The song ends with a popular Michel Legris’ Mo Capitane sample, ushering us into the trance-like closing track, Yoga, where he accepts the burdens of success, warns detractors and vibe killers.

    Final thoughts

    Asake has never shied away from being heavy on vibes and melodies. He heavily taps in feel-good grooves and since Amapiano is still a darling out here, it works in his favour.

    Though the hooks and choruses are infectious, the album sounds like he’s using the same beat for the 100th time sometimes. Asake paces himself on Work of Art and triumphantly soaks in the momentum.

  • Some of Nollywood’s latest productions have shown there’s more goodness to come, and maybe, the industry will become a global hot cake like its sister, afrobeats.

    In the last three years, Nollywood has partnered with Netflix, Amazon Prime, and in January 2023, featured at Sundance courtesy of C.J “Fiery” Obasi’s “Mami Wata”. Although it hasn’t premiered in Nigeria yet, here’s what we know about the globe-trotting movie.

    It’s a moral-lessons type of film

    “Mami Wata” is about the balance of things; good and evil. It touches on issues like gender politics, tradition and modernity. Almost every culture has a mermaid story, so don’t be afraid of myths as you watch this.

    It took time to make

    It took seven years to complete this movie. The writing process began in 2016, went through over eight drafts and developmental labs like the Europe-based Less Is More and Ouaga film lab in Burkina Faso. Filming eventually began in 2021. Great things, indeed, take time.

    It’s in black and white

    The pictures and short clips we’ve seen from this film show compelling black-and-white cinematography. It looks like charcoal but eye-catching, raw, thrilling and timeless. Why won’t it get an international nomination?

    Shot in Benin

    In January 2021, C.J. and his crew landed in Nigeria’s neighbouring country, Benin Republic, to shoot “Mami Wata”. They filmed in rural places like Dahe, Possotome, Bopa and Grand Popo.

    It’s a trilingual film

    English was flowing between the film’s characters, so was the West African Pidgin and Fon — an indigenous language that belongs to Benin’s people of Fon. Truly, it’s a film for all of Africa.

    Cast lineup is giving sability

    “Mami Wata” features experienced actors like Kelechi Udegbe (“Officer Titus”, “The Governor”, “King of Boys: The Return of the King”, etc.), Uzoamaka Aniunoh (“MTV Shuga”, “Diiche”, “Stuck”), Evelyn Illy Juhen (“Desrances”, “Cacao”, “Saloum”) and Rita Edochie. In case you didn’t know, these people and great films:

    Live at Sundance

    In 2022, “Mami Wata” became the first film by a Nigerian-based filmmaker (C.J. Obasi) to be premiered at Sundance — one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world and United States’s biggest independent film festival.

    It’s also Nollywood’s first at Venice

    It was the first Nollywood film to screen at the Venice Film Festival (the world’s oldest film festival) in 2021. C.J. has announced new festival dates in June 2023.

    It’s already packing awards

    The cinematographer, Lilis Soares, won the Special Jury Prize in the World Dramatic Competition. The film also bagged three FESPACO (The Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso) awards, a Meilleure Image (Cinematography Award), a Meilleur Décor (Set Design Award) and a Prix de la Critique (Pauline S. Vieyra’s African Critics Award). C.J. and his team are doing something right.

    Critics love it

    Rotten Tomatoes, the world’s biggest film hater critic, approved and rated it 100%. The Hollywood Reporter said it’s “energizing”. Indie Wire finds it “mesmerizing”. When you’re good, you’re good, abeg.

    The Nigerian release date 

    On June 15, 2023, Oge Obasi, “Mami Wata”’s producer, and the partner/head of production at Fiery Film Company, made this announcement:

    Take our survey here before you go.

  • The ability to make cohesive albums with  great replay value takes immense talent and skills.

    Some Nigerian artists have made conceptual albums that have resulted in series and volumes. In this article, Zikoko highlights seven Nigerian music albums that feel and sound like a continuous story.

    Clone Wars Vol. 1 – 5 — Show Dem Camp

    In 2010, Show Dem Camp dropped the first Clone Wars: their Hip-Hop series that explores the Nigerian political landscape, mental health and toxic masculinity. Clone Wars I was fueled by braggadocious bars and fierceness that could be heard in their voices. The second volume (Clone Wars II: The Subsidy) came out in 2012; inspired by the subsidy removal protest during former president Goodluck Jonathan’s regime. In 2016, “Clone Wars III: The Recession” came out during the start of the recession of Muhammadu Buhari’s government. The fourth volume, “Clone Wars IV: These Buhari Times”, also inspired by the former president’s era, dropped in 2019. Then the fifth installment is called “Clone Wars V: The Algorhythm” — inspired by the aftermath of the 2020 pandemic lockdown.

    Palmwine Music Vol. 1 – 3 — Show Dem Camp

    Since they perfected their palmwine music formula on their 2013 single, Feel Alright (featuring BOJ), it’s been an overflowing tap of grooviness, Lagos romance tales, and showcasing the talent of younger generation artists. The first volume came out in 2017 and featured frequent collaborators like BOJ, Ladipoe, Ajebutter22. In 2018, they followed with volume two, featuring Burna Boy, Worlasi (from Ghana), Lady Donli, etc. Completing a musical series of Nigerian love and Lagos nightlife stories. Show Dem Camp released the most recent installment of the series in 2022 to critical acclaim and it boasts of guest artists like Oxlade, WurlD, Tay Iwar, etc.

    Make E No Cause Fight Vol. 1 & 2 — BOJ & Ajebutter22

    These two artists have been collaborating since  2012, after they did on  the popular song, Omo Pastor. It wasn’t news to their avid listeners when they announced their joint EP, but it was a transcendent experience after it dropped in 2018. With productions from Ekelly, Spax and Studio Magic, they explored topics of sex, love and living a soft life. The second volume came out in 2019, this time with Falz in the mix. On Make E No Cause Fight 2, they brag about their baller status and Lagos rendezvous.

    Illegal Music 1 – 3 — M.I Abaga

    M.I’s 2009 Illegal Music is the poster project for the consecutive series. M.I rapped on uncleared instrumentals that sampled popular records made by other artists. He knew he did something crazy and he had continue the series. Illegal Music 2 came out in 2012 and unarguably became one of the best Nigerian Hip-Hop moments; boasting of high-level features from talented rappers like Ice Prince, Phenom, Boogey, HHP (from South Africa), etc. In 2016, he completed the trilogy with Illegal Music 3, which found him at one of his most vulnerable states of mind.

    Jagz Nation Vol. 1 & 2 — Jesse Jagz

    After Jagz’s exit from Chocolate City in 2013, he launched his own independent music outfit, Jagz Nation. That was the road to his Jagz Nation albums creation. He showcased his full capacity as a music producer and artist, producing all tracks by himself. In the same year, he put out the first volume; a projection of who he is, and examines themes of love, sex, intoxication and spirituality. The popular single Bad (featuring Wizkid) came from Jagz Nation, Vol. 1: Thy Nation Come. The second installment, Jagz Nation Vol. 2: Royal Niger Company came out in 2014, a proper rap album Hip-Hop lovers will continue to relish years to come.

    Pendulum Vol. 1 – 4 — Femi Leye

    Femi is a Nigerian guitarist, singer-songwriter, composer and producer that blends African sounds with modern jazz, soul, r&b and funk in his music, and he’s worked with heavy hitters like Burna Boy, Akon, Salif Keita, Adekunle Gold, Angelique Kidjo and Don Jazzy. In 2021, he started his Pendulum music series: a soothing instrumental music project that combines afrobeats, lo-fi, hip-hop and jazz and melodious guitars. The first volume dropped in January 2021, the second in June 2021, the third was released in September 2021 and the last installment dropped in December of the same year.

    The Collectiv3 EP & Live. Create. Repeat. — The Collectiv3

    Music executive, Chin Okeke brought together a group of Nigerian musicians: Show Dem Camp, Funbi, Ladipoe, Nsikak, Temi Dollface, and producers IKON and Kid Konnect; to be The Collectiv3. They put out their debut offering, The Collectiv3 LP, to mark Nigeria’s 55th independence in 2015. In 2018, they released their sophomore album, Live. Create. Repeat, a celebration of creativity. Their productions fuse afropop, alternative, Nigerian R&B with some alté sounds. 

    LOFN 1 – 4 — WeTalkSound 

    In 2018, WeTalkSound made a shift from being just the biggest Nigerian creative community, with members home and abroad, to a tastemaker in the music industry. They curate original collections of love stories, told from different perspectives, with different styles, across genres. “LOFN” is derived from Norse mythology which translates to “loving” the idea of the series being a collection of love stories. The first compilation dropped on SoundCloud on February 13th, 2018 to celebrate the year Valentine’s Day. This has now become their annual tradition. The second one came out 14th February, 2019. LOFN 3 dropped on 14th February, 2020, and the last installment came out in 2021.

    Take our survey here.

  • Let’s throwback to some of the songs Gen Xers loved and grooved to the most in their heydays.

    Sorry Sorry — Femi Kuti

    You’re still likely to hear this record in a Nigerian nightclub today, 25 years after Femi Kuti released it. Often revered as the most powerful song on Femi’s sophomore album, Shoki Shoki, Sorry Sorry maintains relevance in addressing African leaders and their corruption. But beyond that, music doesn’t get more spiritual than this, with its heavy percussion, baseline and arrangement.

    Rhumba Stylée — Ras Kimono

    Reggae was a big rave back in the 1980s and 90s. The late Nigerian reggae musician, Ras Kimono, (AKA The Dub Master) had the streets, airwaves and clubs in a chokehold with his big hit and lead single, Rhumba Stylée. Although he was talking about Nigeria’s problems, people still jammed to it on their birthdays. Decades later, the pressure keeps getting wesser, and we’re still asking, “Whattagwan inna dis ah countri?” An undeniable classic. 

    Happy Birthday — Evi Edna Ogholi

    Is a birthday celebration complete if Nigerian parents don’t sing this song or play it out loud while they lip-sync it? Happy Birthday is one of Nigerian reggae musician Evi Edna Ogholi’s hits. She released it in 1988, and it’s since become a cultural touchstone.

    Afro Juju — Sir Shina Peters

    Sir Shina Peters (SSP) was THAT guy. SSP and his International Stars blew Nigerians away with their electrifying first album, Afro Juju Series 1, in 1989. The album-title track, Afro Juju, fuses juju, afrobeat and some elements of fuji music — a sound that’s gone on to become a genre of its own. 

    Send Down the Rain — Majek Fashek

    Majek Fashek’s 1988 evergreen single, Send Down the Rain, is popular with many Nigerians across generations. He was only 25 years old when he sang the song, a prayer request for ease from the hardship in Nigeria. The song became hugely successful, solidifying Fashek’s presence in the music scene and earning him the nickname, “Rainmaker”. Also, Send Down the Rain is the number one Nigerian song with the most controversial myth around it.

    Time Na Money — Mike Okri

    1989 was the year Mike Okri released Time Na Money, off his Concert Fever album. On this record, Mike sings in pidgin about the importance of time and resourcefulness: “Time na money eh. Use your time well. No waka waka.” It’s a song filled with life lessons. No wonder Gen Xers love it.

    Yo! Catch the crazy dating stories of our 40+ anonymous writer, once a month from Sunday, June 11, 2023.

    One Love — Onyeka Onwenu

    Onyeka Onwenu made this classic in 1991. With a strong message of unity and love, she calls for betterment in our society — an oldie, but still relevant in these times.

    Bolanle — Junior and Pretty

    This song tells the story of a lady named Bolanle, a pastor’s daughter whose family won’t let her date her true love, Junior. This 1994 song is relatable to many. Junior and Pretty refashioned Nigerian hip-hop with their comic pidgin rap style on this hit.

    Dem Go Dey Pose — Baba Fryo

    This Baba Fryo classic came out when you had to use a pen to rewind the cassette to repeat songs. It was written in pidgin and became popular with a dance style called galala. Dem Go Dey Pose was played in every street corner when it came out in 1997. From the eyepatch to the dancehall influence, it won’t be too far-fetched to call Baba Fryo the blueprint for Nigerian artistes like Burna Boy and Ruger. 

    Love Me Jeje — Seyi Sodimu

    Yoruba boys have been cooking since the 90s. Seyi Sodimu, considered one of the pioneers of afrosoul, released Love Me Jeje off his album, Born In Afrika, back in 1997. He was the poster boy for Nigerian sweet/bad boys. Love Me Jeje, a romantic song asking for tender love, quickly became a favourite love song for many. Gen Zs might be excited to discover that the music video of this classic features the artist’s cousin, the famous Nollywood Queen Shaffy Bello — the forever IT girl. The visuals were so cool that AIT played it every time.

    Shakomo — The Remedies

    The Remedies, a group made up of Eddy Montana, Eedris Abdulkareem and Tony Tetuila, released Shakomo in 1997. It was recorded on MC Lyte’s Keep On Keeping On instrumental, went live on RayPower FM and became a key moment in history, a marker of hip-hop’s influence on contemporary Nigerian music. Shakomo was so huge, it inspired Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye to open up shop with Kennis Music, a pioneer afrobeats record label. Asake also referenced it on his hit song, Peace Be Unto You.

    Omode Meta Sere — Tony Tetuila

    In 1999, the Remedies broke up. Amidst all the drama surrounding this event, Tony Tetuila featured Ruff Rugged N Raw and Plantashan Boiz in a subtle diss track. You can hear 2Face Idibia back up the chorus, screaming “Woah”. Falz would reference this iconic hit in the chorus of the Olamide and Davido-assisted Bahd, Baddo, Baddest of 2017.

  • If you’ve binge-watched all the new Nollywood content, this June, there are seven fresh, critically acclaimed Nigerian films to be added to your watchlist. Cinemas and on streaming services; they’re there for your entertainment.

    Sista

    https://youtu.be/LhDCxb3z4k0

    Written and directed by Biodun Stephen, it first premiered in 2022, and is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime since June 1st. This epic starring household names like Kehinde Bankole, Deyemi Okanlawon, is about  a single mom who fights to keep her children and shield them from their deadbeat father who returns suddenly to be in their lives. Since its debut on Prime, many viewers have come back with impressive reviews that has marked this movie as a must-see for everyone.

    Passport

    Originally hit the box office in 2022, but now showing on Netflix since June 2nd, 2023. It focuses on two characters, Funke (Mercy Johnson) and Oscar (Jim Iyke), from two different worlds. The bourgeoisie guy Oscar, needs the skills of Funke the ghetto tomboy to help him recover a stolen passport. This film also focuses on an unusual angle that brings lonely people together. It’s tense and funny— Jim Iyke has a way with words when it comes to dishing out insults.

    Tiger’s Tail

    The title of this film is giving hot action. Also premiered in 2022, but only available for viewing on Prime since June 2nd, 2023. In this thriller directed by Victor Okpala, you’ll see how Amara, a returnee from the UK tries to establish a rehabilitation centre for street boys but ends up being kidnapped by a violent gang leader. Is it now a bad thing to help people? Come and see too, let’s judge this matter together.

    Daddy

    June 9th, Daddy is coming to cinemas near you to show you a heartwarming story that revolves around the life and struggles of a protective father. We’ll be present at the cinemas to see actors like Femi Jacobs and Charles in action. There’s no chief or sugar prefixing this daddy. This is a real fatherhood story.

    ATTENTION: Catch the crazy dating stories of our 40+ anonymous writer, once a month  from Sunday, June 11, 2023.

    Battle on Buka Street

    Given the way Nigerian men talk about food, I can  believe food is the cause of tension in this film. It was released in cinemas in December 2022. This Tobi Makinde and Funke Akindele’s directed comedy-drama tells the story of two food sellers who are also half-sisters, Yejide and Awele. They never saw eye-to-eye due their rivalry and battle to be the real King of Buka Street. This Funke Akindele’s project which is now one of the highest grossing Nollywood films, will be showing on Prime on June 19th.

    The Men’s Club 4

    First of all, shout-out to Dami Elebe, the writer of this compelling show. She’s one of the women reshaping Nollywood’s narratives. This show which originally started as a web-series on YouTube, will now also have its fourth season installment showing on Prime on June 30th. The Men’s Club is a drama that explores the tales of four young men in Lagos; deep in the business and flocked by women. Can’t wait to see faces like Sharon Ooja, Ayoola Ayolola, Efa Iwara, Sola Sobowale, etc., grace our screens again.

    The House of Secrets

    This Niyi Akinmolayan-directed picture will be the first production from Anthill Studios scheduled for 2023, and it’s set to be shown on Prime on the 30th of June. This story revolves around a woman whose past haunts her when she lands in prison for being in cohort with her spy hubby. The cast list includes skilled actors like Kate Henshaw, Femi Jacobs, Ede Irele, Onajite Dede and many others. If you’re a fan of gloomy grey, black and white shots, you’ll enjoy this film noir.

  • Such fun times when we shook our bodies and broke our backs to 4/4 beats.

    Do you know that since these afrobeats jams came out, you’ve grown ten years older?

    Jaiye Jaiye

    This Sarz-produced song by Wizkid expressed the artist’s aspiration to do exploits and give his parents the fruits of their labour. Wiz featured the legend, Femi Kuti, who delivered the saxophone sounds that make the song extra memorable.

    Sho Lee

    Back then, when you heard “D’Tunes again o”, you were sure a banger was about to play. In 2013, Sean Tizzle broke into the mainstream with the D’Tunes-produced Sho Lee. And anytime the song came up, your shoulders would anticipate the chorus, “sho le?” — are you a real baddie or an audio one? — so you could lift them up and down in response. 

    Durosoke

    Olamide hasn’t gone a year without dropping a hit song — or three — in his music career. 2013 was no exception. Durosoke was blasting on the radio, in the clubs, barbing saloons, and we could all recite the lyrics. From the beat to the flow and delivery, you can tell Baddo was in a playful mood and that transferred well to listeners. It’s always fun when we sing it out loud and throw our hands in the air.

    Gobe

    At a time when using songwriters or purchasing someone else’s demo was almost unheard of in afrobeats, Davido released Gobe, which was written and produced by an artist called Password. It turned out to be a smash hit. Those who were in love when it came out should be happily married with two kids by now. Even the artist is now a family man. But as for the rest of us, we’re holding out for the wise lyrics of this song to come to pass: “Good comes to those who wait”.

    Kokose

    Sound Sultan and Wizkid combined forces and took over dancing floors when they dropped this banger. Kokose commands your body to move and throws your booty in serious whine, urging you to “fidi jo” like 21 times in the chorus.

    Beat of Life (Samba)

    This song has one of the craziest beats in the last decade of afrobeats. Wizkid asks his love interest to be with him and gleefully boasts that he’s “Mr. Give You Everything You Need” before asking for a dance. This is another proof that Sarz and Wiz don’t miss. Ever.

    Caro

    Wizkid had just launched his label, Starboy Entertainment, when Caro came out and became a dancefloor darling. The song featured Wiz’s longtime affiliate, LAX, on a verse.

    Sexy Mama

    Iyanya had us in a chokehold with his bangers, Flavour, Your Waist and Sexy Mama. No other artist could fit best as a guest on Sexy Mama than Wizkid, who took the catchy chorus. Sexy Mama was for all the sexy babes, and they never waste time before shaking to the thumping tempo once it comes up.

    The Matter

    Maleek Berry featured Starboy on this bouncy vibe that introduced Berry, who was based in London, to a larger audience in Nigeria. We all sang along as Wiz affirmed that “20 man shall fall that day if you cross my lane o, eh.” We can all agree that Wizkid owned 2013. From solo songs to collaborations and label releases, he ATE.

    The Kick

    When you hear The Kick, you’ll shout “One by one, two by two, on the line, line.” “Infectious” and “memorable” are the only appropriate descriptors for this track. Don Jazzy produced and opened the song introducing Wande Coal’s Black Diamond label, then left WC to give us one of his best performances ever.

    Gat Me High

    This is the third track off May D’s first album, Chapter One. In the early 2010s, he was signed to Square Records, a label owned by veteran duo, P-Square. In that period, which can be considered as May D’s peak, we witnessed him deliver impressive cuts like Ile Ijo, Soundtrack and Gat Me High, one of the biggest songs of 2013. Anytime it played, it’s a must to scream “as a sure boy” to show our sability. A jam.

    Tonight

    Burna Boy has been that guy before all the Grammys and sold-out shows. He released Tonight in 2013, under Aristokrat Records, to the delight of an audience that quickly recognised his genius. The smooth blend of English, Yoruba and Igbo over LeriQ’s lush production was pure perfection.

    ATTENTION: Catch the crazy dating stories of our 40+ anonymous writer, once a month from Sunday, June 11, 2023.