Asake’s Global Rise Continues with ‘Lungu Boy’

Ikenna ChurchillAugust 10, 20244 Mins read297

Ahmed Ololade, better known by his stage name Asake, has swiftly carved out a unique space within the Afrobeats scene. With a distinctive blend of Fuji, Afropop, and Amapiano, Asake’s rise to prominence is a testament to his ability to merge traditional sounds with modern influences, creating a soundscape that is both fresh and nostalgic. His sophomore album, Work of Art, was lauded for its vibrant energy and lyrical depth, cementing his position as a significant figure in contemporary African music. Asake’s artistry is a journey—a journey that continues with his third studio album, Lungu Boy. This project explores deeper into his roots while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of his sound.

Asake’s music is characterised by his soulful vocals, a rhythmic blend of traditional Yoruba elements, and the infectious grooves of Amapiano. His sophomore album, Work of Art, showcased his ability to craft anthemic tracks that resonate deeply with his audience. It was an album that celebrated his newfound stardom, filled with tracks that mirrored his journey from the streets of Lagos to international acclaim.

In Lungu Boy, Asake takes a more introspective approach. The transition into this album is marked by a smooth interpolation of Asa’s “Eye Adaba” on the opening track “Start,” a nod to one of Nigeria’s most beloved artists. This sets the tone for an album that is less about the pulsating energy of Amapiano and more about storytelling and reflection. Asake’s decision to use less of the Amapiano beats that defined much of his earlier work is a bold move, one that allows him to explore new sonic territories while staying true to his roots. This track, much like the rest of the album, is a journey through Asake’s experiences, reflecting on his early days and the challenges he faced to reach his current status.

Throughout Lungu Boy, Asake remains firmly rooted in his identity, even as he collaborates with international stars like Stormzy, Central Cee, LUDMILLA and Travis Scott. The arrangement of the album, however, is not without its flaws. While Asake’s growth as an artist is evident, there is a sense that the album’s playlisting could have been more thoughtfully curated. Albums are, after all, stories—works of art that should be experienced as cohesive narratives. The sequencing of Lungu Boy sometimes disrupts the flow, making the listener work harder to piece together the narrative that Asake is trying to tell.

One of the standout tracks is “MMS,” where Wizkid’s contribution adds a layer of coolness that complements Asake’s more grounded style. The track is a playful exploration of Asake’s journey, underscored by a light and impactful beat. A collaboration hints at the potential for more great music between these two.

In “Active,” Asake teams up with Travis Scott, creating a track that blends the energy of Afrobeats with the darker, more atmospheric sound that Scott is known for. The collaboration is a testament to Asake’s versatility, showing he can hold his own alongside some of the biggest names in global music. However, the album’s features complement Asake’s voice rather than overshadowing it, allowing his signature sound to shine through while adding new dimensions to his music.

Asake’s experimentation on this album is most evident in tracks like “Fuji Vibe,” a song that perfectly encapsulates his musical heritage. It’s a track that has already become a fan favourite, particularly for those who have followed Asake’s journey from the beginning. The fusion of jazz, drums, and traditional Fuji elements creates a sound that is both nostalgic and innovative, an accurate representation of Asake’s ability to bridge the old with the new.

“My Heart,” Asake opens up about his vulnerability and the kind of love he seeks, a departure from his usual energetic tracks. “Worldwide” is a declaration of his ambition to dominate the global music scene, with lyrics that reflect his desire to make a lasting impact beyond Africa. Tracks like “Mentally” and “Mood” address the pressures of conformity and the importance of self-acceptance, offering optimistic vibes and a more introspective look at many challenges. With its multilingual approach, “Mood” broadens Asake’s appeal beyond the Nigerian audience.

“Worldwide” is a bold declaration of his international aspirations, blending catchy hooks with confident lyrics. “Skating” adds a playful touch, while “Wave,” featuring Central Cee, highlights the seamless fusion of Afrobeats with global sounds. “Suru,” featuring Stormzy, is a standout track that underscores the album’s thematic depth. It emphasises patience and perseverance, with Stormzy’s distinctive style enhancing the message of staying true to one’s dreams. “Uhh Yeahh” captures the carefree essence of Asake’s vibe-driven approach to music, offering a relaxed yet engaging listening experience.

“Swear” reveals Asake’s personality through its severe yet playful tone, reflecting his love for the finer things in life. “Ligali” celebrates the joy of having a special partner while navigating life’s adventures, blending fun and responsibility with Asake’s energetic style. “Whine,” featuring LUDMILLA, wraps up the album by honouring his cultural heritage and collaborative spirit. The album’s production is bolstered by the talents of P.Priime, Magicsticks, Mike Dean, Sarz, and SAK PASE, whose work contributes significantly to its success.

The album has sparked diverse reactions from fans. One fan described it as an introspective album that reflects Asake’s growth and the different phases of his life. They noted that while his debut album, Mr. Money With the Vibe, was filled with energy and excitement, Lungu Boy is a more reflective project, focusing on his journey and the challenges he’s faced along the way. Another fan highlighted “Fuji Vibe” as their favourite track, praising it for its authenticity and connection to Asake’s roots.

Despite the mixed reactions, it’s clear that Lungu Boy is a project made with a purpose. It’s an album that requires the listener to understand the music’s context and appreciate the nuances of Asake’s journey and his artistic choices.

Conclusion

In Lungu Boy, Asake continues to push the boundaries of his artistry, experimenting with new sounds and collaborating with global stars while staying true to his roots. The album is a testament to his growth as an artist, even if it doesn’t always hit the mark in cohesion. It’s a project that deserves recognition for its ambition and how it encapsulates the complexities of Asake’s journey. With this album, Asake proves that he is not just a fleeting sensation but an artist with depth, vision, and a bright future. While Lungu Boy might not be perfect, it’s a solid 7/10—a project that is sure to grow on listeners with time and context.

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