Asake is an album artist. Not the type of artist who just releases songs. He releases projects that stay with listeners for a long time. From street-pop chants that could turn bus stops into choirs to love songs with one eye on the dance floor, Asake’s discography offers a diverse music experience.

In just a few years, he has built a catalogue that fans argue about, with every album producing at least one song someone swears changed their life. So, I asked the people, AKA the fans, to list, rank and talk about the 40 greatest Asake songs of all time. This is their ranking:

40. “Skating” (2024)

“Skating” celebrates Asake’s newfound hobby of skateboarding.

“This song is good and I don’t think many hear the same thing I hear in it. People are just hating on the song for no reason.” — Lase, Asake fan since “Trabaye.”

Standout lyrics: “Been on the road for a while, brother, you know why.”

39. “My Heart” (2024)

This romantic track features French-Gabonese singer Anaïs Cardot, with Asake singing devotedly to his lover.

“I like it when Asake sings softly like he isn’t in a rush anywhere I must have sung this to my ex a million times when it first came out.” — Opeyemi, Asake fan since “Ototo.”

Standout lyrics: “She ain’t got no OnlyFans, I’m the only fan.”

38. “Mentally” (2024)

Asake is bouncing on the beat as he flexes his global status and celebrates good living.

“It’s experimental, different from other Asake tracks. It’s just a fun song.” — Nma, Asake fan since “Amapiano.”

Standout lyrics: “In case you wan do pass yourself, go front.”

37. “I Swear” (2024)

This is a catchy feel-good jam. Just Asake in a party mood.

“I like the hope it presents, the prayers. And the beat.” — Titilayo, Asake fan since “Omo Ope.”

Standout lyrics: “Days like this we been pray for / So we thank God, Alhamdulillah.”

36. “Mood” (2024)

An experimental Asake track that’s great to kickstart a day or end a bad one.

“A lot of times, “Mood” is the song I go to after a bad day or an emotionally draining one. It’s like driving around and doing all the things that make it look like I’m doing well. But deep down, I’m dealing with a lot. At the end of the day, I still face my fears and struggles in my own way. The goal is to keep going and stay grateful. The Spanish he throws into the second verse also elevates the song.” — Tobi, Asake fan since “Body.”

Standout lyrics: “Life is a race, keep it running / Face my fears, keep it solid.”

35. “Basquiat” (2023)

“Basquiat” sees Asake comparing himself to legendary artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, calling himself.

“This is the highest Asake has ever bragged in his music. It has a strong energy that I tap into.” — Ololade, Asake fan since “Trabaye.”

Standout lyrics: “walking poetry, I am greater / I’m a work of art, Basquiat”

34. “Whine” feat. LUDMILLA (2024)

This jam is a fusion of Afrobeats and ragga-dancehall with Brazilian artist LUDMILLA.

“This is my favourite song from Lungu Boy, my favourite album from Asake.” — Basit, Asake fan since “Sungba.”

Standout lyrics: “She feels like sex to me / Tell me what you put in your recipe.”

33. “Worldwide” (2024)

Asake dazzles on downbeat to flex his global status and international reach. Big boy things.

“This song feels like winning to me. Every time it comes on, you just know something was shifting for Asake when he made it.” — Tunde, Asake fan since “Omo Ope.”

Standout lyrics: “Kintu, kinpo, Kilimanjaro, yaro / My guy, I don’t smoke claro.”

32. “Wave” feat. Central Cee (2024)

“Wave” features British rapper Central Cee and it’s one of the album’s standout collaborations.

“You just know that at this time he is confident AF in his music. You can hear it.”

Standout lyrics: “ Make nobody stress me, I’m on a wave right now.”

31. “Suru” feat. Stormzy (2024)

“Suru” is a song about patience and a groovy record that interpolates Musililu’s classic 2000 hit “Ise Oluwa Ko Seni Toye.”

“I’m going with this song because it features my favourite UK rapper, Stormzy. They compliment each other well.” — Yomi, Asake fan since “Ototo.”

Standout lyrics: “My mama tell me say suru lere, suru lere gan ni.”

30. “I Believe” (2023)

Asake proudly proclaims himself the “landlord,” flexing his lyrical chops.

“The second verse of this song has the best flow I have ever heard from Asake.” — Fikayo, Asake fan since “Mr. Money.”

Standout lyrics: “Dey want make my value go down like metaverse / Make I hammer dem second verse / Ologbon loni universe.”

29. “M�Dz�����” (2023)

Asake indulges in the fun side of life without inhibition, singing about party substances while surrounded by beautiful women.

“Since this song came out, it’s been my party starter.” — Peace, Asake fan since “Mr. Money.”

Standout lyrics: “Komi je rush rush tetrazzini.”

28. “Mr. Money” (2020)

“Mr. Money” was Asake’s 2020 breakthrough single. It gave him his first taste of mainstream success and would later inspire the title of his debut album, establishing his “Mr. Money” persona.

“This song rocked every bar, party or place I went to in 2020. It was everywhere and I loved it. Finding out after Asake blew up, that he made the song blew my mind. It’s that jam forever, bro.” — Deji, Asake fan since “Mr. Money.”

Standout lyrics: “Me, I no dey cap, me, I no dey form / My energy is high, what the fuck?”

27. “Only Me” (2024)

Asake released this song on his birthday in 2024 to celebrate himself.

“The lyrics is why I fuck with this song. If being rich, knowing self-worth and minding one’s business is a song, this is it.” — Olamide, Asake fan since “Sungba.”

Standout lyrics: “I’m losing sleep over nobody / I go alone, taking no baggage.”

26. “Uhh Yeahh” (2024)

“Uhh Yeahh” merges Fuji, EDM and Jersey club influences to make a dance track that tears down raves.

“This is an experimental side of Asake that I can’t get over. I think he can make mad songs that’ll smash any party.” — Mercy, Asake fan since “Terminator.”

Standout lyrics: “Big boys lawa, beere mi ni Kagawa.”

READ NEXT: 10 Nigerian Music Industry Players Share Predictions for Afrobeats 2026

25. “Dupe” (2022)

This upbeat track is perfect for church dance sessions and motivating listeners to be grateful regardless of their situation.

“An Amapiano song that advises me, makes me grateful and forces me to party at the same? Goated! There’s no one like Asake mehn.” — Gideon, Asake fan since Mr. Money With The Vibe.

Standout lyrics: “What is difficult for you is also difficult for somebody / No dey use emotion, better face your grind and make money.”

24. “Trabaye” (2021)

“Trabaye” appears on the Ololade Asake EP, where Olamide blesses and cosigns Asake.

“I like it so much because it’s basically a prayer, asking for upliftment. And this is where everything changed for Asake. It’s my prayer point too.” — Lami, Asake fan since “Omo Ope.”

Standout lyrics: “Omolope no dey form bossy / You be boss, I be boss, who go con be conduc’?”

23. “Joha” (2022)

If you’re looking for an Asake song with a frenetic mix of Fuji, Afrobeats and Amapiano, he delivers it here beautifully. An instant party banger.

“It makes me dance all the time. I’m a bad dancer, but I can move well to this song.” — Blessing, Asake fan since “Dull.”

Standout lyrics: “Make we just dey fire dey go / Ko de ni su wa.”

22. “Active” feat. Travis Scott (2024)

Asake takes his style to reimagine Jazzman Olofin’s “Raise Da Roof” alongside Travis Scott, on Sarz’s production.

“It’s a fucking jam.” — Mo’Gunz, Asake fan since “Omo Ope.”

Standout lyrics: “Mo n gbona, ori mi dey there.”

21. “Great Guy” (2023)

Asake sings about  his personal virtues: consistency, bravery, talent and a rounded personality.

“The Amapiano is banging. It’s peak vibes.” — Dave, Asake fan since “Dull.”

Standout lyrics: “I be the vibe, you can see in my lifestyle.”

20. “Awodi” (2023)

“Awodi” references Prince Adekunle’s Juju classic “Awodi Nfo Ferere,” to make one of the smoothest Nigerian folk-pop songs.

“Asake is at his best when he tries to get spiritual. Great performance.” — Fati, Asake fan since “Omo Ope.”

Standout lyrics: “Wonder shall never end like Pasuma Wonder / Awon da, Americana Wonder o.”

19. “What’s Up My G” (2023)

Asake parties and toasts buxom women. Best for your pool party playlist.

Standout lyrics: “I spend money like young alhaji / But I’ve big Alhaji, pelu Ghazi, my G.”

18. �Ԩ�Dz���” (2023)

Here, Asake finds inner peace amid rising fame. Departing from the Amapiano sound that dominated his debut and most of his sophomore album, for the meditative Mauritian séga sound.

“The style is different. The production is great. Its ambience fits perfectly with the song’s themes of mindfulness and self-preservation. I wish it was longer.” — Abiola, Asake fan since “Dupe.”

Standout lyrics: “Mo dupe, mo thank God / Omo olore mo gbaye mo keko.”

17. “M�ѳ�” feat. Wizkid (2024)

“M�ѳ�” is a contemplative, reflective track where Asake and Wizkid unite over P.Priime’s production to meditate on life’s futility and acknowledge God as the all-knowing. This is their first collaboration together.

“I think this is Asake’s best R&B song.” — Phero, Asake fan since “Terminator.”

Standout lyrics: “I dey waka kurukere, I dey okay my price.”

16. “Olorun” (2023)

This is another contemplative song, the opening track of Asake’s sophomore Work of Art where he offers a solemn homage to God.

“This is his best opener ever.” — Fikayo, Asake fan since “Nzaza.”

Standout lyrics: “Ta lo gbona t’Olohun / Kosi anybody to lo gbona t’Olohun.”

15. “WHY LOVE” (2025)

“WHY LOVE” is Asake’s first single under his independent label Giran Republic, fully marking his departure from YBNL Nation.

“This is one of the songs of 2025. Anyone who argues this can never appreciate quality.” — Johnson, Asake fan since “Terminator.”

Standout lyrics: “Angeli kan ma lemi / Obinrin to ba de iru mi, consider lucky.”

14. “BADMAN GANGSTA” (2025)

This jam featuring French-Congolese artist Tiakola samples Amerie’s iconic “1 Thing”. It’s a celebration of self-made success.

“Asake didn’t even need to do too much last year. He dropped two songs last year and they are some of best drops, having “BADMAN GANGSTA” as number one.” — Francis, Asake fan since “Omo Ope.”

Standout lyrics: “I be omo Naija o / Living my life, mi o sa o.”

13. ��ٳܲԲ�����” (2023)

��ٳܲԲ�����” proved the potential of Asake’s star power. Here, he fully assumed his role as a hitmaker.

“This is Asake’s jam that I have played the most. This song made me completely fall in love with Afrobeat and Amapiano fusion.” — Oromiku, Asake fan since “Omo Ope.”

Standout lyrics: “Omo jeka fo, no go dey ghost oh / Eru ti gbe wo ten kilo, kilo.”

12. “T��������Բ��ٴǰ�” (2022)

This is an uptempo love song in which Asake sings to a romantic interest, with sensual lyrics. It arrived ahead of his debut album, Mr. Money With The Vibe.

“He dropped this as a pre-release single and I had already memorised from the snippet before it came out. If nothing works, this song will convince you of Asake’s hitmaking mastery.” — Favour, Asake fan since “Trabaye.”

Standout lyrics: “This your loving get meaning for my body.”

11. “Fuji Vibe” (2024)

“Fuji Vibe” is the bonus track and closing song on Lungu Boy that pays homage to Fuji music.

“This is the greatest new age Fuji song.” — Dare, Asake fan since “Mr. Money.”

Standout lyrics: “This your booty fit to jawaya / O ga de sanmo Ibadi yen fe ki n se wire into your aza.”

10. “Organise” (2022)

This is one of the biggest hits from Asake’s debut album, illustrating the high energy and passion he has for his craft and his people.

“In my opinion, it’s his best song .” — Dinho, Asake fan since “Palazzo.”

Standout lyrics: “I no go let anyone control me / Anything wey I wan do, I go do.”

9. “Peace Be Unto You (PBUY)” (2022)

Asake navigates the complexities of newfound fame with self-awareness and admits he’s already a big star but refuses to let achievements inflate his ego.

“His whole branding around this time  and the music video made this my all-time favourite from Asake.”

Standout lyrics: “Alaye mi, sare the button lo / Gbogbo nkan ko na ma fin jogor joor joor.”

8. “N��������” (2022)

“N��������” shows Asake at his most reflective and inspirational, in which he recounts overcoming challenges while keeping his focus on his dreams.

“This song feels like something composed in the theatre, maybe for a stage production. It’s raw and emotional. As someone who did Theatre Arts in school for a couple years, this feels too familiar. Also, the subject matter is profound. It’s exactly how I see my life at the moment.” — Tomide, Asake fan since “Nzaza.”

Standout lyrics: “Emi o kere o, emi o kere / Emi o kere, so fun ma wo be.”

7. “Lonely At The Top” (2023)

This is one of the biggest Afrobeats songs of 2023. It explores the emotional complexities, loneliness and distrust that accompany fame and success.

“I’m usually a carefree person and this song is so resonant.” — David, Asake fan since “Omo Ope.”

Standout lyrics: “Out here on the road, chasing my dream because I know no one can chase it for me.”

6. “Amapiano” with Olamide (2023)

“Amapiano” is an infectious song produced by Magicsticks that earned a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance and was named one of Barack Obama’s favourite songs of 2023.

“Olamide is my favourite artist. This is one of their few collaborations and I love the chemistry so much.” — Bayo, Asake fan since “Mr. Money.”

Standout lyrics: “Oju ko, okan ni giran.”

5. “2:30” (2023)

The spirit of this song is simply late-night/early morning hours when Lagos truly comes alive. This is an audio capture of the liminal time when party culture comes alive, a phenomenon that has become central to Asake’s artistic identity.

“This is the song that got me turnt up the most since it came out.” — Frank, Asake fan since “Dull.”

Standout lyrics: “Alaye mi, stop se be.”

4. “Sunshine” (2024)

This is a sermon from Asake’s pulpit, motivating his congregation of street hustlers that victory will surely come if they never stop grinding.

“It’s a motivational song for me.” — Moyosore, Asake fan since “Dull.”

Standout lyrics: “Igbadun aye po leyin ipon ju / Ma beru, roju.”

3. “Omo Ope” feat. Olamide (2021)

“Omo Ope” is the breakthrough single that changed Asake’s life. It’s a lively and captivating Amapiano hit that adopts elements of Fuji in its vocal approach. It’s also his first collaboration with Olamide.

“I really like Asake, but this song is the first time I heard his music and fell in love immediately. Olamide’s verse is fire too.” — Josiah, Asake fan since “Omo Ope.”

Standout lyrics: “Wa gba dollar, o po l’eti t’oba se si cefa.”

2. “Ototo” (2022)

This is a calmer song, with Asake urging listeners not to relent or give up while acknowledging that everyone has their own burden to bear.

“I’m a realist. My perspective and views on things put together is this song.” — I.D, Asake fan since Mr. Money With The Vibe.

Standout lyrics: “Carry your own, I no get stamina.”

1. ���𳾱𳾲����” (2023)

As a love song, ���𳾱𳾲����” tells the story of lost love and its rekindling of passion.

“I don’t have any deep reason. I just love it. There’s something undeniable about this song that I can’t shake off.” — Francis, Asake fan since Mr. Money With The Vibe.

Standout lyrics: “Remember, my baby remember/ I just want to spend all my cheddar on you.”

ALSO READ: Asake’s “Lungu Boy” is an Unsuccessful Experiment, Unlikely a Convincing Trifecta

Details about Asake’s relationship with his father have remained unclear, but online speculation suggests they might not have been close, with claims that Odunsi was not fully involved when Asake was growing up.

Here’s a breakdown of everything that happened, from the initial allegations to their eventual reconciliation.

March 13, 2025 – Asake’s Father Goes Public

A video surfaced online featuring Fatai Odunsi, who identified himself as Asake’s father. In the emotional clip, Odunsi claimed that ever since he suffered a stroke in 2022, his son abandoned him, cutting off all financial support. 

He appealed to the public to come to his aid, saying that Asake no longer answers his calls or acknowledges his struggles. This revelation immediately sparked online debates, with many questioning Asake’s silence.

ALSO READ: Asake’s 10 Best Songs Ranked

March 14, 2025 – Asake Responds Through Music

Asake broke his silence in the way he knows best — through music. He shared a snippet of an unreleased song on social media, addressing the situation in Yoruba. In the lyrics, he suggested that he had been financially supporting his father but felt unappreciated. 

He implied that his father was trying to deceive him, yet he has chosen to remain unwavering. This response fueled the fire, with fans taking it as evidence that his relationship with his father had been strained for a long time.

March 15, 2025 – The Family’s Demands and a New Accusation

The situation escalated further when a video emerged featuring people who claimed to be members of Asake’s extended family. They called on him to purchase a ₦50 million house for his father to compensate for past neglect. 

Additionally, they introduced another shocking allegation — Asake allegedly has an 11-year-old daughter named Zeenat. They demanded that he take full responsibility and suggested a DNA test to confirm paternity. 

At this point, social media went into overdrive, with divided opinions on whether Asake should comply with the demands or if he was being unfairly targeted.

March 16, 2025 – A Resolution?

Amid all the public discourse, reports emerged that Asake and his father have reconciled. Sources close to the family confirm that Asake has instructed real estate agents to purchase a house for Odunsi and has also provided funds for his medical expenses. 

In a new video, Odunsi expressed his gratitude, stating that the issues have now been resolved and that he is proud of his son. He also acknowledged that Asake has agreed to take responsibility for Zeenat.

ALSO READ: Asake’s “Lungu Boy” is an Unsuccessful Experiment, Unlikely a Convincing Trifecta

Social Media Reactions

As expected, social media had plenty to say about the unfolding drama. Here are  some of the wildest reactions:

First of all, Asake is one of African music’s superstars, and indeed one of the biggest that we’ve ever seen. In three years of his ascent, he has released three albums, though the first two are more critically acclaimed than the third. Nonetheless, he has remained a king of street anthems, making fans dance like nobody’s watching.

With his unique blend of Fuji, Afrobeats, and Street-Pop, Asake has taken the Nigerian music scene by storm. And with a discography full of jams, it’s hard to pick just a few faves. So, I took on the task of diving into Asake’s catalogue, ranking the 10 best of his songs and exploring what makes each one special. From the chart-toppers, fan favourites, and the often-overlooked, I’ve crowned his undeniable bangers.

10.

“Mr. Money”

In August 2020, at the peak of the COVID-19 lockdown, an Amapiano jam hit the streets with the popular catchphrase, “Mr. Money, can I be your only honey?” This Magicsticks-produced song was everywhere, playing in clubs and parties, though Asake remained an obscure artist. It wasn’t until after his signing to YBNL that many realised that this guy had one of the biggest hits of 2020 when he was unknown. Its success birthed the remix with Zlatan Ibile and Peruzzi. This is his humble beginning in the mainstream.

9.

“Omo Ope” featuring Olamide

Asake kept at his Amapiano experiment and even began fusing with Afrobeats and Fuji. By 2022, Asake and his music had gained more clout and traction. He got the attention of Olamide, who featured on “Omo Ope” and eventually signed Asake to his record label, YBNL. That was the dawn of greatness for Asake.

8.

“M�Dz�����”

Relationship issues had Asake in a chokehold, and he had no choice but to voice out his emotions. He’s only available for love matters, but the problems with his insecure lover have pushed him to vices. Still, he found a strong voice that’s yielding to love, and he can’t let go. He ends the song by stating that his woman is a wonderful one. Indeed, romance over everything.

7.

“N��������”

This song, “Nzaza,” is the eighth track on Mr. Money With the Vibes, Asake’s debut album. It’s an Igbo word that means “God, please, hear my prayers.” By extension, he admonishes himself to help his prayers work, after all, even the Bible says there’s no food for the lazy. He also praises himself as an important personality— more or less a declaration or his prayer to fulfil his destiny to be great. His songwriting is as pristine as the heart he opens up in the song to the heavens.

6.

“T��������Բ��ٴǰ�”

This song arrested many music listeners straight from its preview on social media. “T��������Բ��ٴǰ�” refers to someone who goes back on an agreement or promise. In this case, it’s a babe he planned a link-up with. The song is riddled with sweet-nothings, sex talks and romantic yearnings. He even draws a comparison between his profound, persistent readiness for coitus, like a popular logistics company: “Mo wa gbe e de bi Gokada, I dey deliver steady.”

5.

“Fuji Vibe”

In five minutes and twenty-two seconds, Asake gives an eclectic performance of pure Fuji delivered with the urgency of the current times. He sings of enjoyment and women with hypnotic auras. Interestingly, Asake had this song for a long time, but he updated it with his producer, Magicsticks and additional production from himself and The Compozers. The second half of the song switches into the thunderous and rhythmic sounds of percussion; it sounds like chaos, yet so sweet and safe. He comes fully into his Fuji act here.

4.

“M�ѳ�”

Here, Asake, on his third album, Lungu Boy, eased off his Amapiano fusions and worked with another producer, P.Priime. “MMS,” meaning “Mr. Money Song,” is a laid-back and reflective record that suggests that God is omnipresent, nothing happens without God, and all that’s in this life is vanity. Wizkid, in the second verse, expands the theme and plunges into his mom’s demise and his grief. The song feels like a deep cut.

3.

“Lonely at the Top”

This song is on Asake’s second album, Work of Art. Here, Asake has found success. He already had the biggest Nigerian debut album ever out. He has performed at the famous O2 Arena in the UK. He was at a top level he hadn’t been before. Hence, the reason why a great height sometimes is a scary territory, as he sings here.

2.

��ٳܲԲ�����”

Before the ��ٳܲԲ�����” remix with Burna Boy, the original song dominated playlists and DJ sets. ��ٳܲԲ�����” is a raunchy jam about laying pipe. He remembers his old flings and calls on new players willing to join him in bed. It’s apparent here that this guy has mastered how to make resonating songs that become smash hits.

1.

���𳾱𳾲����”

This song calls back on the love that feels like it may slip away. He recalls all the lovely moments spent together and pleads for a continued, stress-free romance. In this romantic chase, Asake wants his love interest and the listener, by extension, to remember who he is: an undisputed show stopper, an undefeated champ, a committed lover and a big spender on his women. He makes a maverick record of “Remember.” His lyricism, vim and passion are earnest.

In Case You Missed It, We Reviewed Asake’s “Lungu Boy” Album. Read Here.

Last year he sold out the 20,000-capacity London O2 Arena following the release of his sophomore album “Work of Art,” a feat only the biggest names in Afrobeats, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Rema, and a few others have been able to accomplish. But Mr Money with the Vibe had only just started.

On September 21, 2024, Asake sold out London’s O2 Arena for the second time. How did he do it?  We got busy deciphering the Asake blueprint for you to follow.

Build a cult following

It can’t be denied that the consistency of Asake’s music has kept his fans, both in Nigeria and abroad, loyal to him for years. Even before he became famous, he had a cult following in his days as an undergrad at Obafemi Awolowo University. Now, people don’t just love his music; they pay to listen and see him in concert.

Go global

We may argue from now till tomorrow that we shouldn’t depend on the white man’s Billboard chart. But its effect in propelling local acts to the global forefront can’t be underestimated. Asake’s first album, “Mr Money With the Vibes,” charted at number 66 on the Billboard US 200 chart and became the highest-charting Nigerian debut album of all time. His sophomore, “Work of Art,” also debuted at number 66 on that chart. In August 2024, nine songs from his latest album, “Lungu Boy,” appeared on the Billboard Afrobeats Chart. The world is listening.

Snag a Grammy nomination

A Grammy nomination definitely helps if you’re looking to sell out the O2 twice. Asake’s Amapiano song with label boss Olamide bagged a Grammy nomination when the African Music category debuted at the awards for the first time this year.

Late-night show performance

Performing at late-night shows has never hurt anybody before, certainly if O2 is in the future. Asake has performed his music at Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Fallon’s shows. Going on famous late-night shows like The Late Night Show With Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Fallon’s The Tonight Show to talk about and perform his music is effective in global standing strategy. Millions of people watch TV and YouTube globally.

Book the O2

After you’ve built a reliable and paying large audience that’ll be up for your party at 2 AM, the O2 Arena isn’t a bad venue. After all, it’s currently Afrobeats’ biggest hall, so book it.

Read Our Review of His “Lungu Boy” Album

Every meeting place has a designated name. Where smokers and mostly closet drug-addled folks freely indulge in Southwest Nigeria is called Lungu. Another interpretation of Lungu is ghetto. It could also signify a corner, a personal space, a comfort zone, or a place of abode.

This “razz Lungu” word has now found its way into pop culture and urban vocabulary and can be open to broader contexts. Your office space is your lungu. Your favourite hangout spot, your precious kitchen. This will be the Asake effect. “Lungu” is the adjective in his new album title. It modifies the noun Asake. It’s where the Nigerian singer finds a sense of belonging, his loyalty to his proletariat beginning, if not a specific nod to his Lagos Island origin. “Lungu Boy” is his third studio album, a speculated trilogy, just released after his modern classics, “Mr Money With the Vibes” (2022) and “Work of Art” (2023).

Start opens the album. Forty seconds after the sample of Asa’s Eye Adaba, a morning reverie, Asake sets the album tone. He’s a party rider. He sings, “Mr. Money killing show / Anywhere I enter, it’s a big intro.” After the mellow post-Work-of-Art singles, Happiness and Only Me, nothing screams “We’re so back!” more than those opening lines. He pleads positivity, and disregards distractions. “Me I wan free mind, make I no yarn too much / Elevate my mind, make I not talk too much.” 

Mr. Money Sound (MMS) comes in next. Reflection is written all over this. This therapeutic type of production requires acknowledging a higher power, going down memory lane, waxing philosophical about vanity, or getting deep into the pain points of desiderium, as Wizkid’s verse expresses. One hears this type of performance from Wiz and wonders, “This guy talks?” It builds an expectation that he likely has more to say on his forthcoming album than recycled smug brags, canal tales and frolicking gists of his lovers’ musings.

The party finally picks up on Mood. It’s groovy, though not necessarily happy; it’s a mix of moods. Optimism is almost dimmed, and Asake contemplates with a resigned attitude. The fleeting emotions he sings about here is a universal phenomenon; it’s happening in every life. This song makes thoughts sober rather than turnt on a tipsy or drunk night. One may feel aligning chakras and white light on the forehead in more profound listening. The angelic “Oh, oh, oh, ohhh” between his verses shifts the song from a groove towards the realm of meditation. Asake repeats his first verse in the second but in broken Spanish. It’s hard to tell why he subjects us to español. Perhaps he’s learning a new language and testing his proficiency, or it’s the influence of Los Angeles living since his blow-up. Or maybe it’s an expansion move into Southern America, which makes sense considering the bridge performed by French-Gabonese singer on the following track, My Heart. According to Asake, the song describes the kind of woman he wants. The song lyrics and love interest’s name, Marissa, further confirm his interest in the Latino experience, specifically a babe.

Adding that up with his global breakthrough in the music space, Worldwide takes the follow-up spot. In a larger context, Asake wants to be more than a guy from Africa. The tempo almost dragged until he gets Active with US rapper Travis Scott on a funky urban-fuji inflected with log-drums and a sample of Jazzman Olofin and Adewale Ayuba’s Raise the Roof. They’re hyperactive, junking on adrenaline. This song’s the album’s zinger!

Suru, the next song (meaning “Patience”), is admonishing, almost like Asake’s looking out for impatient people. The chorus bites Musiliu Ishola’s Ise Oluwa Ko Seni Toye. It features Stormzy, a UK rapper, to say that good comes to those who wait.

Asake picked up a new hobby turned lifestyle this year. It’s skating. The outdoor sport that was once a rebellious underground subculture and became popular through the likes of Pharrell Williams (Skateboard P), Lil Wayne and Lupe Fiasco is very mainstream now. However, it’s a developing culture in Nigeria. Not to be classist, but a younger Asake who possibly made a fun ride from a motorcycle tyre and a stick would likely look at the version with a skateboard with yearning and envy. As regular as skateboarding may be, it’s a boujee sport for those with nothing to think about other than survival. This song is about the joy of finding fun (again) in adulthood. Also, it’s interesting that a Nigerian artist sings about a fun activity that isn’t a vice.

Magicsticks, his go-to producer over the last two albums, finally sticks one production to us with Wave featuring Central Cee from the UK. It’s the twin to Active with Travis Scott, although it might as well be a Central Cee record. Far from peer pressure and insecurity cop-out, Mentally relates to nightlife spenders and hustle savviness impacted by street smart. He makes enough cash to disregard a lame. Uhh Yeahh comes up in the middle of a rave and possesses the party energy — Fuji, EDM and Jersey club music have become one spirit. This song gets the dancefloor going in the drench of sweat and deafening subwoofers. The beat is so hypnotic that Asake gets lost in the sauce. It’s a reminder that Sarz isn’t your mate.

As a Nigerian, one word at the tip of one’s tongue from birth is I Swear. The slang means “I’m dead serious”, and it needs no serious conversation to slip in. Here, the listener moves to Asake’s message of self-importance and love for luxury. At this point, this album has become a slow burner. Three songs to the finish, totalled at 48 minutes, “Lungu Boy” feels longer than his previous 30-minute-long albums that play incredibly fast and beg for a repeat.

Ligali is a term popularised by Fuji musician Pasuma Alabi over two decades ago. More than a reference to coitus stimulation, “ligali” encourages dancing and gyration. Asake continues to be influenced by Fuji music, a constant sonic element in his upbringing. Brazilian singer LUDMILLA joins Asake on Whine that melds Afrobeats groove and ragga-dancehall to advance Mr. Money’s quest into the Afro-Latin music market. He closes out with a live-performance version of Fuji Vibe, a long-time recorded song he played as an interlude during one of his shows. Its opening beat breaks share similarities to Olamide’s Wo, including their hyper-fast BPM. The thumps of gangan and omele drums, jazziness of modern drum set and trumpet, instrumental renditions of Adewale Ayuba’s Ijo Fuji, and Asake’s breakout single Mr Money, send the crowd into an àríyá (party) frenzy. Then it slowly descends into a Mara music vibe, carrying Gen-Z of the inner cities. This song will be as hard as any entry at the famous Oluyole West NG Carnival in Ibadan. Fuji Vibe will go down as one of the fans’ favourites.

With P.Priime credited as producer on the first four songs (Start, MMS, Mood, My Heart) and three others (Suru, Skating, I Swear), it now goes without saying who the producer of the year is. Sarz, P.Priime’s sensei, did the production on Worldwide, Active, Mentally, Uhh Yeahh, Ligali. The three remaining production credits go to Haitian producer SAK-PASE on Whine, Magicsticks on Wave, alongside Asake and The Compozers on Fuji Vibe. The album’s production value is elite.

Conclusion

“Lungu Boy” is the repeat of stories he’s already told, laden on experimental Afropop, neo-fuji and urban-tungba. Rather than an autobiographical audio entry, this album is a party drilled in heavy, uptempo, ADHD-induced sounds, rigorous jolts, and dance moves. Although Asake remembers God and that he’s a vanity slave, there’s little reflection in the body of work, not what the title and portrait album art suggest. The music is hot on gaiety, ballers’ night out, house parties, counting cash and spending it on baddies with chop-life agendas. One wonders if these women are aware that he’s convinced that . 

Asake’s performance seems more relaxed, but the music is still shindig and restless.

Compared to his debut album “Mr. Money With the Vibes (MMWTV)”, “Lungu Boy” is a slow-burner, just as his second album “Work of Art”. The difference is the latest album misses the preciseness of his self-written debut, and lacks the focus of the sophomore, his best. Perhaps the exclusion of Olamide, his label boss, in its songwriting is glaring. Or maybe this is a pushed work that fulfills and ends his YBNL contractual obligations. “Lungu Boy” seems to miss its intended message. It gives little to the ghetto kids. Nothing more than weak songwriting, surface music and steeze.

Considering the album hype and Asake’s reputation as a hit-making machine, the listeners’ conversation would be torn into an emphatic “Asake delivered” and a puzzled “What’s this?” Lungu Boy is an unsuccessful experiment, a 7/10 at best. It doesn’t feel like a convincing trifecta—at least not yet.

This is a premature evaluation anyways.

People will still dance to his music.

Speaking of Experimental Albums, We Reviewed Rema’s “HEIS” too.

Nigerian artists, Davido, Ayra Starr, Olamide, Asake, Bloody Civilian and Blessing Offor, all got their first Grammy nominations, joining the growing list of nominees that includes Femi Kuti, Seun Kuti and Tems.

We bring you the list of categories and nominees you should care about.

Record of the Year

Worship – Jon Batiste

Not Strong Enough – boygenius

Flowers – Miley Cyrus

What Was I Made For? (From Motion Picture Barbie) – Billie Eilish

On My Mama – Victoria Monét

Vampire – Olivia Rodrigo

Anti-Hero – Taylor Swift

Kill Bill – SZA

Album of the Year

World Music Radio – Jon Batiste

the record – boygenius

Endless Summer Vacation – Miley Cyrus

Did You Know That There’s A Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd – Lana Del Rey

The Age of Pleasure – Janelle Monáe

GUTS – Olivia Rodrigo

Midnights – Taylor Swift

SOS – SZA

Song of the Year

A&W – Jack Antonoff, Lana Del Rey and Sam Drew

Anti-Hero – Jack Antonoff and Taylor Swift

Butterfly – Jon Batiste and Dan Wilson

Dance the Night (From Barbie The Album) – Caroline Ailin, Dua Lipa, Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt

Flowers – Miley Cyrus, Gregory Aldae Hein and Michael Pollack

Kill Bill – Rob Bisel, Carter Lang and Solána Rowe

Vampire – Daniel Nigro, Olivia Rodrigo

What Was I Made For? (From Motion Picture Barbie) – Billie Eilish O’Connell and Finneas O’Connell

Best New Artist

Gracie Abrams

Fred again..

Jelly Roll

Coco Jones

Noah Kanan

Victoria Monét

The War and Treaty

Producer of the Year (Non-Classical)

Jack Antonoff

Dernst “D’Mile” Emile II

Hit-Boy

Metro Boomin

Daniel Nigro

Songwriter of the Year (Non-Classical)

Edgar Barrera

Jessie Jo Dilion

Shane McAnally

Theron Thomas

Justin Tranter

Best Pop Solo Performance

Flowers – Miley Cyrus

Paint The Town Red – Doja Cat

What Was I Made For? (From The Motion Picture Barbie)

Vampire – Olivia Rodrigo

Anti-Hero – Taylor Swift

Best Pop Duo/Group Performance

Thousand Miles – Miley Cyrus

Candy Necklace – Lana Del Rey feat. Job Batiste

Never Felt So Alone – Labrinth feat. Billie Eilish

Karma – Taylor Swift feat. Ice Spice

Ghost In The Machine – SZA feat. Phoebe Bridgers

Best Pop Vocal Album

Chemistry – Kelly Clarkson

Endless Summer Vacation – Miley Cyrus

GUTS – Olivia Rodrigo

– (Subtract) – Ed Sheeran

Midnights – Taylor Swift

Best Dance/Electronic Recording

Blackbox Life Recorder 21F – Aphex Twin

Loading – James Blake

Higher Than Ever Before – Disclosure

Strong – Romy and Fred again..

Rumble – Skrillex, Fred again.. and Flowdan

Best Pop Dance Recording

Baby Don’t Hurt Me – David Guetta, Anne-Marie and Coi Leray

Miracle – Calvin Harris feat. Ellie Goulding

Padam Padam – Kylie Minogue

One In A Million – Bebe Rexha and David Guetta

Rush – Troye Sivan

Best Dance/Electronic Music Album

Playing Robots Into Heaven – James Blake

For That Beautiful Feeling – The Chemical Brothers

Actual Life 3 (January 1 – September 9 2022) – Fred again..

Kx5 – Kx5

Quest For Fire – Skrillex

Best Alternative Music Performance

Belinda Says – Alvvays

Body Paint – Arctic Monkeys

Cool About It – boygenius

A&W – Lana Del Rey

This Is Why – Paramore

Best Alternative Music Album

The Car –Arctic Monkeys

The Record – boygenius

Did You Know That There’s A Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd – Lana Del Rey

Cracker Island – Gorillaz

I Inside The Old Year Dying – PJ Harvey

Best R&B Performance

Summer Too Hot – Chris Brown

Back To Love – Robert Glasper feat. SiR and Alex Isley

ICU – Coco Jones

How Does It Make You Feel – Victoria Monét

Kill Bill – SZA

Best Traditional R&B Performance

Simple – Babyface feat. Coco Jones

Lucky – Kenyon Dixon

Hollywood – Victoria Monét feat. Earth, Wind & Fire and Hazel Monét

Good Morning – PJ Morton feat. Susan Carol

Love Language – SZA

Best R&B Song

Angel – Halle Bailey, Theron Feemster and Coleridge Tillman

Back To Love – Darryl Andrew Farris, Robert Glasper and Alexandra Isley

ICU – Darhyl Camper Jr., Courtney Jones, Raymond Komba and Roy Keisha Rockette

On My Mama – Dernst Emile II, Jeff Gitelman, Victoria Monét, Kyla Moscovich, Jamil Pierre and Charles Williams

Snooze – Kenny B. Edmonds, Blair Ferguson, Khris Riddick-Tynes, Solána Rowe and Leon Thomas

Best Progressive R&B Album

Since I Have A Lover – 6LACK

The Love Album Off The Grid – Diddy

Nova – Terrace Martin and James Fauntleroy

The Age Of Pleasure – Janelle Monáe

SOS – SZA

Best R&B Album

Girls Night Out – Babyface

What I Didn’t Tell You (Deluxe) – Coco Jones

Special Occasion – Emily King

JAGUAR II – Victoria Monét

CLEAR 2: SOFT LIFE EP – Summer Walker

Best Rap Performance

The Hillbillies – Baby Keem feat. Kendrick Lamar

Love Letter – Black Thought

Rich Flex – Drake & 21 Savage

SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS – Killer Mike feat. André 3000, Future and Eryn Allen Kane

Players – Coi Leray

Best Melodic Rap Performance

Sittin’ On Top Of The World – Burna Boy feat. 21 Savage

Attention – Doja Cat

Spin Bout U – Drake & 21 Savage

All My Life – Lil Durk feat. J. Cole

Low – SZA

Best Rap Song

Attention – Rogét Chahayed and Amala 

Barbie World (From Barbie The Album – Isis Naija Gaston, Ephrem Louis Lopez Jr. & Onika Maraj, songwriters (Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice Featuring Aqua)

Just Wanna Rock – Mohamad Camara, Symere Woods & Javier Mercado, songwriters (Lil Uzi Vert)

Rich Flex – Brytavious Chambers, Isaac “Zac” De Boni, Aubrey Graham, J. Gwin, Anderson Hernandez, Michael “Finatik” Mule & Shéyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph, songwriters (Drake & 21 Savage)

SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS – Andre Benjamin, Paul Beauregard, James Blake, Michael Render, Tim Moore & Dion Wilson, songwriters (Killer Mike Featuring André 3000, Future And Eryn Allen Kane)

Best Rap Album

Her Loss – Drake & 21 Savage

MICHAEL – Killer Mike

HEROES & VILLIANS – Metro Boomin

King’s Disease III – Nas

UTOPIA – Travis Scott

Best Spoken Word Poetry Album

A-You’re Not Wrong B-They’re Not Either: The Fukc-It Pill Revisited – Queen Sheba

For Your Consideration’24 -The Album – Prentice Powell and Shawn William

Grocery Shopping With My Mother – Kevin Powell

The Light Inside – J. Ivy

When The Poems Do What They Do – Aja Monet

Gospel and Contemporary Christian Music

God Is Good – Stanley Brown Featuring Hezekiah Walker, Kierra Sheard & Karen Clark Sheard; Stanley Brown, Karen V Clark Sheard, Kaylah Jiavanni Harvey, Rodney Jerkins, Elyse Victoria Johnson, J Drew Sheard II, Kierra Valencia Sheard & Hezekiah Walker, songwriters

Feel Alright (Blessed) – Erica Campbell; Erica Campbell, Warryn Campbell, William Weatherspoon, Juan Winans & Marvin L. Winans, songwriters

Lord Do It For Me (Live) – Zacardi Cortez; Marcus Calyen, Zacardi Cortez & Kerry Douglas, songwriters

God Is – Melvin Crispell III

All Things – Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin, songwriter

Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song

Believe – Blessing Offor; Hank Bentley & Blessing Offor, songwriters

Firm Foundation (He Won’t) [Live] – Cody Carnes

Thank God I Do – Lauren Daigle; Lauren Daigle & Jason Ingram, songwriters

Love Me Like I Am – for KING & COUNTRY feat. Jordin Sparks

Your Power – Lecrae & Tasha Cobbs Leonard

God Problems – Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine; Daniel Bashta, Chris Davenport, Ryan Ellis & Naomi Raine, songwriters

Best Gospel Album

I Love You – Erica Campbell

Hymns (Live) – Tasha Cobbs Leonard

The Maverick Way – Maverick City Music

My Truth – Jonathan McReynolds

All Things New: Live In Orlando – Tye Tribbett

Best Contemporary Christian Music Album

My Tribe – Blessing Offor

Emanuel – Da’ T.R.U.T.H.

Lauren Daigle – Lauren Daigle

Church Clothes 4 – Lecrae

I Believe – Phil Wickham

Best Roots Gospel Album

Tribute To The King – The Blackwood Brothers Quartet

Echoes Of The South – Blind Boys Of Alabama

Songs That Pulled Me Through The Tough Times – Becky Isaacs Bowman

Meet Me At The Cross – Brian Free & Assurance

Shine: The Darker The Night The Brighter The Light – Gaither Vocal Band

Best Global Music Performance

Shadow Forces – Arooj Aftab, Vijay Iyer & Shahzad Ismaily

Alone – Burna Boy

FEEL – Davido

Milagro Y Disastre -Silvana Estrada

Abundance In Millets – Falu & Gaurav Shah (Featuring PM Narendra Modi)

Pashto – Béla Fleck, Edgar Meyer & Zakir Hussain Featuring Rakesh Chaurasia

Todo Colores – Ibrahim Maalouf Featuring Cimafunk & Tank And The Bangas

Best African Music Performance

Amapiano – Asake & Olamide

City Boys – Burna Boy

UNAVAILABLE — Davido feat. Musa Keys

Rush – Ayra Starr

Water – Tyla

Best Global Music Album

���辱�ڲ���í���� – Susana Baca

History – Bokanté

I Told Them… – Burna Boy

Timeless – Davido

This Moment – Shakti

Best Reggae Album

Born For Greatness – Buju Banton

Simma – Beenie Man

Cali Roots Riddim 2023 – Collie Buddz

No Destroyer – Burning Spear

Colors Of Royal – Julian Marley & Antaeus

Best Compilation Soundtrack For Visual Media

AURORA – (Daisy Jones & The Six)

Barbie The Album – (Various Artists)

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – Music From And Inspired By – (Various Artists)

Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 3: Awesome Mix, Vol. 3 – (Various Artists)

Weird: The Al Yankovic Story – Weird Al Yankovic

Best Score Soundtrack For Visual Media (Includes Film And Television)

Barbie – Mark Ronson & Andrew Wyatt (composers)

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – Ludwig Göransson (composer)

The Fabelmans – John Williams, (composer)

Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny
– John Williams (composer)

Oppenheimer – Ludwig Göransson, (composer)

Best Song Written For Visual Media

Barbie World (From Barbie The Album) – Naija Gaston, Ephrem Louis Lopez Jr. and Onika Maraj, songwriters (Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice feat. Aqua)

Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album) – Caroline Ailin, Dua Lipa, Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, songwriters (Dua Lipa)

I’m Just Ken (From Barbie The Album) – Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, songwriters (Ryan Gosling)

Lift Me Up [From Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – Music From And Inspired By) – Ryan Coogler, Ludwig Göransson, Robyn Fenty and Temilade Openiyi, songwriters (Rihanna)

What Was I Made For? (From Barbie The Album) – Billie Eilish O’Connell & Finneas O’Connell, songwriters (Billie Eilish)

Best Music Video

I’m Only Sleeping – The Beatles 

(Em Cooper, video director; Jonathan Clyde, Sophie Hilton, Sue Loughlin & Laura Thomas, video producers)

In Your Love – Tyler Childers
(Bryan Schlam, video director; Kacie Barton, Silas House, Nicholas Robespierre, Ian Thornton & Whitney Wolanin, video producers)

What Was I Made For? – Billie Eilish
(Billie Eilish, video director; Michelle An, Chelsea Dodson & David Moore, video producers)

Count Me Out – Kendrick Lamar
(Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar, video directors; Jason Baum & Jamie Rabineau, video producers)

Rush – Troye Sivan
(Gordon Von Steiner, video director; Kelly McGee, video producer)

Find the full list .

From his iconic entrance to flexing vocals with Fireboy DML and an almost-there show performance, Ololade Mr Money etched his name into the timeline of afrobeats artists who’ve had the iconic arena’s doors open up in their names.

Asake’s dramatic entry

Asake arrived on stage in a yellow and black helicopter with the YBNL logo sitting pretty on its side. We don’t call this guy Ololade Mr. Money for nothing. He has raised the bar for anyone who touches the O2 next.

He paid tribute to the victims of his last concert

A tribute video honoured Rebecca Ikumelo and Gabrielle who lost their lives at Asake’s O2 Academy (not to be confused with the O2 Arena) concert in 2022.

Asake brought out Tunde Baiyewu

It was a wholesome moment seeing Tunde Baiyewu, one of our veteran musicians, on stage to sing Ocean Drive — a song Asake sampled on Sunshine.

He paid homage to Davido

OBO had a show at the Afronation Fest in Detroit, U.S.A., on the same day, but Asake still paid respect to the old cat with his version of Davido’s No Competition. 

He brought out other OGs

Asake’s label boss, Olamide, came to perform Omo Ope and Amapiano with him. Tiwa Savage also sang some of her hits. Fireboy DML and Lil Kesh weren’t left behind either.

Tribute to Wizkid’s mum

Poco Lee and DJ Enimoney played some Wizkid songs, in honour of his mother’s passing on August 18, 2023.

He performed his OG hit 

Asake owned December 2020 with Mr. Money before people even knew him. He brought the jam back on the O2 stage.

If Asake was this dramatic at his o2 concert, we wonder what actions his upcoming show at the Barclays Centre (New York) will unpack in September.

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 .

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.

Fans are excited.

Asake is not anybody’s mate!

Mr. Money is back, and these are the things we know about his forthcoming album:

It’s titled Work of Art

Literally that’s what an album is. And it’s not hard to tell when you see his new album cover.

With a classic debut “Mr Money With the Vibes” already in the bag, Asake, who has served us hits back-to-back, isn’t taking his foot off our necks. He’s set to deliver his second body of work barely nine months after his first one. He’s loaded! Here are a few facts about the upcoming album:

Ololade to Basquiat.

Asake is in his Basquiat Era. Everything about the album cover artwork screams “inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat.” This also shows where his head is, and we know he’ll prove it on the iconic level he’s hinting at.

But these are not Basquiat’s works.

Asake shows his deep appreciation for art and even more lovely, we discovered Nigerian artist , is behind the paintings displayed on his Work of Art album cover. Ayanfe, who had her debut solo exhibition in London a month ago, has been receiving well-deserved “congratulations.”

�Ԩ�Dz���”

Asake has decided to remove the sample at the beginning of �Ԩ�Dz���”. Catch the new version on the album.

“Amapiano” is the second single on “Work Of Art”.

But “Amapiano” will join “2:30” as the only released singles  to be on the album. On the Olamide-assisted “Amapiano”, you can hear the distinct approach the song production imbibed; the logs and break snares played as the drums, giving the sound a lush, bouncy feel.

“Work of Art” is 14-tracks long

His new album will be two songs longer than his debut, “Mr Money With the Vibes”, which had only twelve tracks.  Asake heard us when we said “MMWTV” was too short. We feast.

The Album will be out two months before O2 Concert

You can see the intentionality that goes into this project. It’s tactical because he’d have enough material to perform to the raving behest of his fans at the O2 show. We’re sure he’ll sell multiple show dates this time also. We just hope the unfortunate events of his last London show don’t happen again. Let’s all maintain orderliness.

ICYMI: We’re calling on all hot babes with the vibes to be live at HERtitude 23. Don’t miss it. Buy a ticket .

READ: How Will A Nigerian Mum React to Asake’s Mr Money With the Vibe Album?