Nigerian superstar Oxlade continues his hot streak by officially releasing his anticipated debut album, Oxlade From Africa, via Epic/Sony Music France.
Blending his past, present, and future into an all-encompassing vision, Oxlade From Africa is a bold and expansive 16-track musical and cultural journey that transcends borders, celebrating African heritage from Lagos to the world. With its title reflecting a broad, inclusive vision, the album highlights Africa’s cultures, elegance and beauty, marking the next step in the Lagos-based artist’s rise, showcasing his journey from breakout success to mainstream recognition.
Aiming to continue making Africans proud of their heritage, Oxlade uses his music, visuals and fashion to deliver a powerful message of unity, and is continuing the momentum from his massive global hit “Ku Lo Sa,” which has 574 million streams and was certified GOLD by the RIAA this week. The project is also home to recent singles “Intoxycated” ft. Dave, both halves of the double “KATIGORI/PIANO” release, “Arabambi” and most recent offering “IFA” featuring Congolese superstar Fally Ipupa.
LP opener “Interlude” features Ugandan political activist and musician Bobi Wine who introduces the album with a powerful co-sign and thought-provoking message, setting a powerful tone with an uplifting message of resilience and African spirit. “OLAITAN (Olaoluwa),” which translates to “the wealth, the favor and the grace of God shall never leave you” in Yoruba, finds Oxlade reflecting on his life journey, embracing a mindset of faith and destiny over a warm and feel-good production. “Blessed” features Jamaican Dancehall legend Popcaan and becomes an instant highlight as they share stories of overcoming struggles, highlighting that despite their youth, valuing your self-worth and positivity is key.
2023 summer smash “Intoxycated” continues to ooze star quality alongside London rap king Dave as they showcase their storytelling finesse, delving into a story of love and the intoxicating traits that come with it. Oxlade’s global breakout hit “KU LO SA” follows. Originally a spontaneous decision before his COLORS performance, the songs heartfelt lyrics symbolizes trust in intuition and the power of seizing opportunities, putting his vocal talents front and centre. “IFA” is a sultry love song infused with Coupé-Décalé and Afrobeats rhythms, as Oxlade reassures his love interest that she is his priority, painting vivid images of devotion with cheeky metaphors, whilst Fally Ipupa’s melodic touch further amplifies the song’s seductive energy.
“Ovami” features High-life legend Flavour and delivers a harmonious blend of love and unity as Oxlade taps into the rich heritage of High-life music, a sound central to Nigerian culture, making the track a celebration of love in all its forms. Spring single “Arabambi” is the nickname of K1 De Ultimate, an iconic Nigerian Fuji musician and means “the child of the people,” “the community gave birth to this child,” and “the one.” The track’s melody, inspired by Miguel’s vocal style, mixes African tradition with modern R&B, creating an irresistible fusion of rhythm, love and pride. “Tamuno (Interlude)” is a spiritual pause in the album, offering a moment of reflection. Named after a deity in Nigerian culture, it serves as a homage to Oxlade’s faith and spiritual journey, laying the groundwork for the more sensual and energetic songs to follow, and “ASUNASA (Hold Your Waist)” featuring Wande Coal offers exactly that. With influences from Wande Coal’s classic “So Mi So,” this stylistic offering sees both artists trade risque, Afrocentric verses, merging spiritual undertones with sensual energy to become an instant album highlight.
The P-Prime-produced “Piano” is a heartfelt love song that blends the soft hits of a log-drum, piano and drums with Oxlade’s signature falsetto and ad-libs that characterises Oxlade’s effortless ability to create romantic anthems. The Sarkodie-featuring “Ololufe” is a tribute to the iconic “Ololufe” by Wande Coal, adding a modern twist with influences from Reggae, Dancehall, and Afrobeats. Sarkodie’s hard-hitting verse complements Oxlade’s smooth vocals, creating a dynamic love song that pays homage to African R&B while setting new standards. “RMF” (Rich Motherf*cker) is a declaration of confidence and self-worth, drawing inspiration from Fela Kuti’s vintage Afrobeat sound as the 27 year old unapologetically boasts about success, luxury, and the journey that got him here.
“On My Mind (OMM)” features TOMi Owo & OJAHBEE, and dives deep into the emotional rollercoaster of love, becoming an ode to first love as it explores the excitement and nervousness that comes with falling for someone. “Katigori” is Oxlade’s manifesto, written during a time when he had fame but was still striving for success. Closing the album, “OFA” embodies Oxlade in his ultimate form. Again drawing from Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat and blending it with his Afro-Pop style, this track is the culmination of his journey—his evolution into a fully-realized artist. It’s a powerful anthem of self-awareness, confidence, and embracing one’s destiny.
Buy tickets to Oxlade’s “Oxlade From Africa Tour” HERE
© 2024, Seth "Digital Crates" Barmash. All rights reserved.
