Asake Embraces His Roots with His Third Studio Album.
Asake, one of Afrobeats’ brightest stars, has once again captivated the music world with his third studio album, “Lungu Boy.” The word “Lungu” in Nigerian slang refers to the hood or the ghetto. In this album, Asake not only celebrates his humble beginnings but also showcases his evolution into a global phenomenon. With a mix of introspective lyrics, diverse musical influences, and innovative sounds, “Lungu Boy” is a bold statement of his identity and artistic growth.
Setting the Tone with ‘Start’
The album opens with “Start,” a powerful track that samples Asa’s classic song, “Ẹyẹ Àdàbà.” Asake’s use of this sample is a nod to his Yoruba heritage, blending traditional affirmations with a contemporary sound. The result is a unique fusion that some have dubbed “Afro-adura,” a genre that combines Afrobeats with the soulful tones of Yoruba music. This track sets the stage for the album, introducing listeners to Asake’s reflective and heartfelt journey.
A Melodic Surrender in ‘MMS’
Following the soulful introduction, Asake shifts gears with “MMS (Mr. Money Sound),” featuring Afrobeats superstar Wizkid. This track delves into themes of vanity and the ephemeral nature of life. Despite the serious subject matter, the song maintains a light, almost carefree vibe, encapsulating the idea of enjoying life’s fleeting moments. Asake’s collaboration with Wizkid adds a layer of depth and complexity to the album, showcasing his ability to create music that resonates with a broad audience.
Navigating the Emotional Spectrum with ‘Mood’
Asake’s vulnerability shines through in “Mood,” a track where he candidly discusses his struggles with mental health and emotional fluctuations. This song is a testament to his lyrical prowess and his willingness to explore personal themes. What makes “Mood” stand out is Asake’s use of Spanish in the second verse, highlighting his ability to blend languages and cultures seamlessly. This track is a powerful reminder of the universality of music and emotions.
A Love Letter in ‘My Heart’
The album takes a romantic turn with “My Heart,” the first love song on the album. In this track, Asake expresses his affection for his partner, detailing the lengths he would go to for her happiness. The song’s melodic structure and heartfelt lyrics make it a standout track, offering a glimpse into Asake’s softer side. This love ballad not only adds depth to the album but also showcases his versatility as an artist.
Bragging Rights in ‘Worldwide’
In “Worldwide,” Asake confidently reflects on his journey from the “Lungu” to international stardom. The track is a celebration of his success, as he proudly recounts his achievements in both his music career and personal life. With a catchy beat and infectious rhythm, “Worldwide” is a feel-good anthem that celebrates hard work, perseverance, and the joy of reaching one’s goals.
Dance Floor Ready with ‘Active’
Asake teams up with Travis Scott for “Active,” a high-energy track that is sure to get listeners on their feet. The song samples “Raise the Roof” by Jazzman Olofin and Adéwálé Ayunba, adding a nostalgic touch to the contemporary sound. Asake’s collaboration with Travis Scott brings a fresh dynamic to the album, blending Afrobeats with elements of hip-hop and trap music. “Active” is a testament to Asake’s ability to innovate and push the boundaries of his genre.
The Power of Perseverance in ‘Suru’
“Suru,” featuring UK artist Stormzy, emphasizes the importance of patience and perseverance. The Yoruba word “Suru” translates to patience, and this track is a reminder of the value of staying resilient in the face of adversity. Asake’s collaboration with Stormzy adds a unique flavor to the album, merging the sounds of Afrobeats with UK rap. The result is a powerful anthem that resonates with listeners from all walks of life.
Amapiano Returns with ‘Skating’
Asake reintroduces his signature Amapiano sound in “Skating,” a track that pays homage to the South African genre. Despite the controversy surrounding his use of Amapiano, Asake embraces the sound with confidence, creating a track that is both fresh and familiar. The rhythmic beats and catchy hooks make “Skating” a standout track, demonstrating Asake’s mastery of the genre.
Experimenting with Electronic Music in ‘Uhh Yeahh’
In “Uhh Yeahh,” Asake ventures into new musical territory by experimenting with electronic music. This track showcases his willingness to innovate and explore new sounds, even if they are not typically associated with his style. The electronic elements add a modern twist to the album, highlighting Asake’s versatility and creativity as an artist.
A Saxophone-Infused Vibe in ‘I Swear’
“I Swear” opens with a captivating saxophone rendition, setting the tone for a track that is both smooth and vibrant. The song’s infectious rhythm and melodic structure make it a standout piece on the album, offering listeners a unique listening experience. Asake’s use of the saxophone adds a layer of sophistication to the track, showcasing his ability to blend different musical elements seamlessly.
Getting Closer to the End with ‘Ligali’
As the album nears its conclusion, Asake presents “Ligali,” a track that combines his signature sound with introspective lyrics. This song serves as a reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of success and fame. “Ligali” is a fitting addition to the album, tying together the themes of perseverance, self-reflection, and growth.
Cooking Something New with ‘Whine’
“Whine,” featuring Latin American artist Ludmilla, is a fresh and exciting addition to the album. Asake’s collaboration with Ludmilla brings a new dimension to his music, blending Afrobeats with Latin influences. The result is a track that is both unique and catchy, showcasing Asake’s ability to experiment with different sounds and styles.
Closing with a Cherry on Top: ‘Fuji Vibe’
The album concludes with “Fuji Vibe,” a track that has been heavily requested by Asake’s fans. This song is a rendition of his earlier work, “Shodamo,” and serves as a tribute to his humble beginnings. Asake’s use of Fuji music, a genre that originated in Nigeria, adds a nostalgic touch to the album, highlighting his appreciation for his roots.
A Warm and Soulful Journey
Overall, “Lungu Boy” is a warm and soulful album that showcases Asake’s growth as an artist. His willingness to experiment with new sounds and collaborate with different artists adds depth and variety to the album. Despite the changes in his sound, Asake maintains his signature lyricism and infectious vibe, creating an album that is both familiar and innovative.
While some fans might miss the heavy Amapiano influences that characterized his earlier work, Asake’s evolution in “Lungu Boy” is a testament to his desire to expand his horizons and explore new musical territories. The album is produced by P. Prime, a departure from his usual collaborator, Magicsticks. This change in production adds a fresh dynamic to the album, offering listeners a new perspective on Asake’s music.
Final Thoughts
On a scale of 1 to 10, “Lungu Boy” is a solid 6.5. While the album may not be as groundbreaking as his previous works, it is a testament to Asake’s growth and versatility as an artist. “Lungu Boy” is a celebration of his journey from the “Lungu” to the world stage, showcasing his ability to blend different musical influences and create a sound that is uniquely his own. Mediapeephole approves.
