Gobe!
It seems like our Afrobeats artists have been raiding the ancestral sound archives lately, because these days, they’re cooking up tracks so deeply rooted in African rhythms, they’re practically evergreen out of the box! Seriously, these tunes are so good. They make the Gen X folks peek into the playlist of the Gen Zs.
Right now, two songs are dominating the airwaves and social media feeds. One has everyone suddenly digging out their “vintage” lace outfits. They pair perfectly with fresh kicks now – who knew? The other? Well, let’s just say its hook is so ridiculously catchy, it’s practically a global epidemic. You’ve probably already got them stuck in your head, haven’t you? Don’t worry, you’re in good company!
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Superfuji(GOBE) by oSHAMO
This vibrant contemporary Fuji song unfolds with a unique unfolding of call and response, each rhythmic phrase pulsating with dynamic vitality. The lead vocalist, a charismatic suitor, endeavors to captivate his beloved, Olufunmi. Superfuji(GOBE) blossoms beyond its initial “gobe” hook, emerging into a heartfelt declaration of love.
As the melodic narrative deepens, the persona implores Olufunmi not to ever quarrel with him, revealing himself to be utterly enchanted by her, so much so that she’s “bursting his oblongata” (brain) with her charm. Having laid bare his affections, he attempts to serenade her with promises of devotion, offering anything from “designer or Prada”. He astutely recognizes the allure of material tokens in securing and retaining a woman’s affection.
The song’s persona is an erratic yet endearing lover, his emotional landscape a rollercoaster of fervent declarations. He takes us on a slippery ascent through his myriad feelings for Olufunmi, only to abruptly claim he’s concealing his emotions for the sake of composure and “steeze” – a confusing turn to his preceding profuse confessions and offers of luxury.
As the opening hook reprises, the song’s emotional tenor becomes even more enigmatic. It’s likely the persona is so overwhelmed by infatuation that he’s caught in a delightful dilemma: should he maintain his cool, “steeze-filled” demeanor, or should he surrender entirely to the tempest of his love? This is somewhat Shakespearean in a Fuji way.
No Less by Falz
Falz, a maestro of indigenous soundscapes, consistently weaves rich Yoruba heritage into his musical prowess. His track, “No Less,” stands as a prominent anthem from his latest album, “The Feast.” The song’s captivating intro features a skillful sample of Sikiru Ayinde Barrister’s 1988 classic, “Fuji Garbage,” seamlessly integrating its signature melodic motif.
Within this sonic homage, Falz delivers profound lyrical wisdom and intricate rhyming couplets, such as “verse, circumstance.” This particular segment has fueled a viral social media phenomenon, further amplified by the song’s widespread adoption of the distinctive slogan, “Ello mi dia,” a playful mimicry of the Yoruba-accented pronunciation.
