Somto BisinaAsake, the rising Nigerian music sensation, continues his ascent to stardom with his second album, “Work of Art.” Drawing inspiration from amapiano and Yoruba music, he showcases his unique blend of Afrofusion, incorporating choral harmonies and string arrangements.
With infectious beats and introspective lyrics, Asake’s music exudes a sense of celebration and encourages listeners to manifest their own success.
Asake’s debut album, “Mr. Money With the Vibe,” became a chart-topping success, firmly establishing him as a star in the Nigerian music scene. While fellow artists were embracing the amapiano sound, Asake distinguished himself by infusing his Afrofusion style with choral harmonies, string arrangements, and elements of Indigenous Yoruba music, fújì.
This audacious blend was exemplified by the interpolation of fújì pioneer Ayinde Barrister’s “Oke Agba” in the opening track of his debut album.
With his latest album, “Work of Art,” Asake remains true to his winning formula. Wistful strings add depth to his music, while the characteristic log-drum loops of amapiano create a captivating beat. Asake effortlessly switches between vocal rhythms and inflections, showcasing the many dimensions of his wealth.
Asake’s songs embody his mindset of manifestation, presenting a proposition that anyone can achieve the success and blessings he has experienced through hard work and hustle.
The communal nature of celebration is a recurring theme, evident in the group chants and joyous atmosphere in his music. Influenced by the amapiano genre, which embraces radical Black joy, songs like “Sunshine” and “Awodi” capture the warmth of togetherness and offer encouragement to rise above adversity.
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His storytelling is marked by a constant pursuit of innovation. He skillfully incorporates amapiano into bite-sized pop songs, using it as a platform for intimate storytelling and personal expression.
While paying homage to Nigerian musical legends such as Fela Kuti, Ayinla Omowura, and Wande Coal, Asake infuses his music with cross-generational and intercontinental influences.
From the rumbling bass synths in “Great Guy” to the resonance of talking drums in “2:30,” Asake’s music pushes boundaries while honouring the rich heritage of Nigerian and African music.
“Work of Art,” solidifies his position as a Nigerian music star pushing the boundaries of contemporary African music. His fusion of amapiano, Afrofusion, and Yoruba influences creates a captivating sound that showcases both his introspective storytelling.
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