Medically known as Indian Hemp and on the streets as Weed, among a million other names such as Indo, Igbo, Oja, ganja, etc, no plant has racked up a reputation as deeply contrived as Marijuana has, having been universally illegal for centuries and now gradually being legalised in different countries all over the world. In Nigeria however, it remains an illegal substance but the story dovetails once more as it thrives in a unique space of legal illegality, being that it is commonly and publicly indulged in by members of the populace and deeply glorified by its many users.

This glorification is no small feat as, with the rest of the world, musicians and the entertainment world at large have given rise to its glamourisation, with the former underscoring its influence by openly indulging in it and singing about its effects and feel. In fact, for every Nigerian song about the intoxicating effects of love, we’re sure to hear a comparison between that feeling and that of puffing on some weed in the following line.

Many musicians have also attributed its euphoria and feel to being a strong source of inspiration for their artistry and it seems the Nigerian airwaves just might be spinning on invisible clouds of weed smoke. As a result of its seemingly inestimable influence on the music scene, in this list, we take a walk through music archives to draw up 14 popular Nigerian songs which go beyond a mere mention of the plant but are wholly dedicated to indulgence in the vastly wedded Marijuana plant AKA, weed: 

In the Spirit of '420' Here are Popular Nigerian Songs Dedicated to Weed

1. Sensimilla by Mad Melon and Mountain Black (Danfo Drivers), 2003

Sensimilla by Mad Melon and Mountain Black may not be popular in a room filled with younger Nigerians or members of the Gen Z demographic, this however doesn’t diminish its prestige but instead adds to it, making it the foremost OG before IG record where this list is concerned. Sang by iconic duo, Danfo Drivers who had gone from plying the Ojoto Mile 2 Route to becoming globally recognised music stars, the title, ‘Sensimilla’ also referenced marijuana. 

ALSO READ: 12 Nigerian Songs that Reference 'Internet Fraud' aka Yahoo-Yahoo

Starting off with their call ‘Efrebo efrebo, you go wound o!’ Sensimilla is a song that touches on the legal risks of indulging in marijuana as they go ‘Who dey, dey knock on my door, the rude boys they dey take the indo, you be army na you be policeman, I swear we no go open that door.’ With a chorus that then makes use of a hyperfeminine call and response, popularised by Fela Kuti, the duo goes ahead to talk about people’s undying love for the substance, centering men from different parts of the federation. 

While Mad Melon had passed on in September, the tragedy surrounding his largely unacknowledged death has now turned them into something of a legend, with Sensimilla as a result, becoming even more respected in a circle of discerning music lovers. 

2. Jogodo by Prof Linkin ft. Franco Tia Tia, 2004

Another early 2000s song, it is doubly iconic due to its popularity and its significance to marihuana lovers as it starts up with Franco Tia Tia singing ‘Nooo, no let my daddy know, cause if them no them go flog me koboko,’ a situation which weed lovers would find highly relatable, before the song segues into less unpleasant situations on the chorus that goes ‘Pass me the rizla and the ganja, me I wan feel high ray.’

A song juxtaposing the legal and societal implications of marijuana indulgence, Prof Linkin also speaks on the vigilance required even while under the influence, singing, ‘Look your front because baba dem they can come at any time cause if they catch you, straight to Kirikiri.’

The video of Jogodo had also largely displayed the Ajegunle-originated Galala dance, serving to further popularise it as the movement of the moment. 

3. Ganja Man by 9ice ft Jah Bless, 2007

A weed lover, or stoner’ anthem, 9ice’s Ganja Man had been utterly and blatantly about marijuana usage, its influence, he and Jah Bless’ love for it and the many questions on morality that surrounded it, even when the substance was less popular, and its users, heavily disparaged. 

With ‘Gimme the light, pass, me the ganja, quickly roll up the rizla, let the smoke pump, let the smoke pump ina the air’ as the introduction, with a dragging sound and coughs laced underneath, the theme of 9ice’s Ganja Man was as plain as day, with the singer boldly asking for the plant to be legalised while also addressing God, stating that Marijuana was a gift from him; ‘Baba iwo lo da ewe ate'gbo fun lilo awa omo enia, shey lati maa fa'gbo baba, daun, daun, daun, daun.’ (Father you made the leaves and the roots for man’s use, not to smoke weed, answer?) 

The featured Jah Bless who dedicated the song to Fela Kuti and referenced his shrine which is a popular hub for stoners to date while he also made a case for its users, stating that coke was crap and that weed even trumped being with a woman.

ALSO READ: Here Are the 10 Most Followed African Musicians on Instagram in 2021

4. Choko by Sean Tero, 2009

Sean Tero’s Choko was a hit back in 2009, but due to marijuana’s popularity which then was on the rise, not many were privy to the actual significance of the song which had been an ode to the plant and was titled after another of its many monikers. From the chorus on which Tero had brazenly said ‘Call me the choko the choko, choko, I light up the choko’ to the very first verse where he expanded on his love for it saying, ‘Every morning, every night on my knees I pray. Chei! thank God for Mary jay,’ it had been a classic case of hiding in plain sight as many sang along but few knew the actual meaning of the song. 

In fact, Choko was such a hit, if played at a gathering of 90s babies, a party is sure to go down. Ironically, when interviewed on the core of the song, Tero had hinged the meaning of his record on a less maligned substance, referring to it as a sweet he enjoyed, signifying the less woke mindset that had been prevalent back in the 2000s when weed users had been heavily maligned. 

5. Mary Jane by Vector, 2010

‘I met this girl one time, Mary Jane, she was introduced to me by my best friend, she goes around and all of us no complain, and after we kiss her, we complain, we tell the truth as we laff over anything.’ Vector raps on Mary Jane, his second single off his debut album, State of Surprise.

A Literature class level output on extended metaphors, a guileless mind, would not have caught on to Vector’s well-guarded connotation as his lines weave in the similarity of the nickname for Marijuana with that of a girl’s named thus to show his love for the former, saying, ‘She’s a clean girl in a white dress, her body feels good in her tight dress. She keeps me focused, my inspiration. I marry Juana she gives me inspirations!’

6. Smoke Some Weed by Burna Boy ft Onos, 2011

On this song, Burna Boy asks a simple question, however, it’s one that only has a simple reply for stoners as he asks on soft reggae-hinged guitar strings, ‘How would you like to smoke some weed? Me have some Marijuana in my house that I would like to smoke with you.’ A question he posed to his love interest, on this record, Burna Boy outlines marijuana’s touted benefits as an aphrodisiac and a plant that creates bond, highlighting the THC-based substance’s commonly related link to love. 

Four years after this, Burna Boy put out another stoner’s anthem, this time titled after rolling papers used in smoking weed, Rizzla, and in this case, the song was simply built around the act of rolling with the papers, smoking up and then getting high. The two songs displayed the brazenness of the singer who didn’t leave anything in terms of connotation to the imagination but put it all out in the open, an act he’s since owned and established further given his megastardom.

7. Gimme Dat (Extended Version) by Ice Prince ft Burna Boy, Yung L & Olamide, 2013

To an uninformed listener, this record could as well have simply been titled ‘Kush’ or ‘Gimmer Dat Kush’ as the word was frequently said in that sentence, with kush, which is a synonym for marijuana, being largely sung about. 

Burna Boy had taken the first verse and started off by saying, ‘Gimme light and a spliff I don’t care, no one can compare’ and then Yung L had followed after in the next verse, stating, ‘Give me the kush on the fire that gat me going higher, that green white green that gat me haywire.’ Turning in a line on the often explored trope of love and marijuana, Yung L also sang saying, ‘Let's get high, I love you, pose for me like the bad girls do, I heard you like high grade, well me too.’ While for Olamide, he outlined the die-hard love users of the substance hold for it, amidst paying respects to popular musicians slash marijuana activists; ‘Baddo, respect to Bob Marley, all the girls in Jamaica won wa mi, respect to Fela kuti, me nor play with my claro na my duty.’ 

Ice Prince’s Gimme Dat was a hit and was also a subtle signifier of the acceptance that marijuana usage was beginning to get not just in the music industry but the public eye. 

8. Burning Bush by Jesse Jagz, 2013

In 2013, Jesse Jagz put out his second album, Jagz Nation Vol.1, Thy Kingdom Come, the second track being Burning Bush, which comes after an intro that started up with a rustle, a spark and some coughs, it is however a differently spirited type of stoner’s anthem done up on sombre piano keys and violin riffs dedicated to the memory of a certain Hadiza Aboki. In it, he raps about a lover whose morning ritual was to ‘wake and bake,’ an act that typifies smoking some weed in the morning. He also paints the lover as one who indulged in Marijuana to numb herself to the pains of life and held the belief that it also revealed a lot of life truths that exist beneath the surface of the ordinary; ‘She said she like to burn bush, said that’s the only way that I can learn the truth, so I listen to her when she slowly roll the kush.’ 

Soon enough, the wake and bake ritual is rapped about in the first person, passing across the fact that Jagz himself had inculcated the habit from his lover; ‘Early when I wake up, some say a prayer but Jesse Jagger gonna bake up.’

Jagz Nation Vol.1 also had Sativa featuring Lindsey on the vocals on track 14, another sombre rap record, here he raps about a childhood of lack and a deeply nurturing mother which he romanticises into a healing and spiritually healing mother figure he calls ‘Mama Sativa,’ the latter biologically being one out of two major types of cannabis, stated to give an energizing effect that can help reduce anxiety or stress and increase creativity and focus. It goes; ‘Mama Sativa, my fire and my fever, Mama Africa, spiritual freer and healer, Mama Sativa, my valley and my river.’

9. Marry Juana by Naira Marley and Max Twigz, 2014

Before Naira Marley became a big deal in Nigeria, he was already making waves in Britain as an Afroswing rapper and Marry Juana especially had been a standout track. Ironically, back home, he’s now known as Igbolabi (We birthed weed), a play on Afolabi. 

On the record, he’d sang of his deep love for Marijuana, taking advantage of it’s name to spin a pun that is also the title, saying; ‘I just wanna marry juana, please let me marry juana, cannabis in the rizla, so high I can’t get higher.’

Popular for his racy lines and weed-happy ones as well, Naira Marley’s Oja off his Lord of Lamba album released in 2019 had a surprisingly different appeal to the substance and this time it was for him to not ever completely lose himself to marijuana but continue to enjoy its influence, highlighting the thing line between usage and overindulgence into addiction, he sang; ‘Baba ma ya mi ni were, oja ma je mi, don’t dare my best friend, je ki n le gbese, je kin ro wo gbe.’

10. Bad Man Lighter (B.M.L) by Seun Kuti ft. Egypt 80, 2018

A purely Afrobeats affair off his Black Times, on Bad Man Lighter, Seun Kuti sings with backup and responses to his calls from his Egypt 80 band, about smoking weed everywhere with his bad man lighter and urges everyone with similar affinity, to do same, stating that even the most unexpected members of society indulge in the substance (Army man get e bad man lighter, APC man get e bad man lighter, PDP man get e bad man lighter/ Enough bad man lighter in the church, enough bad man lighter in the mosque.)

While on the opening verse that starts up after the jazz-doused Afrobeats instrumentals, he goes; Who’s got the bad man lighter? (Smoke up!) Smoke up the place. Anywhere I dey, feel funky, anywhere my people dey feel funky. Anywhere I dey dem say no smoking, I know they joking.’

11. Mojo by Shawarma, 2018

On this uptempo jazz-infused record, new school rapper, Mojo likens rolled up marijuana, a blunt to a large wrap of shawarma, explicitly speaking of its effects. And so on the chorus he goes; ‘Ese mi o bale mo, shawarma ni mo lo fa ti ese mi o bale mo/ Okan mi bale but ese o bale mo, Gala meji ni mo fa ti ese mi o bale mo.’  (My legs aren’t settled anymore, the shawarma I smoked is why. My mind is at peace but not my legs, the Gala I smoked is the reason why.)

12. Arizona by Blaq Jerzee and Wizkid 

On the long list of Nigerian musicians that openly indulge in marijuana and thusly glamourise it, Wizkid sits pretty on the top of that list and on Arizona with Blaq Jerzee, he lays the weed-inspired intro with the words, ‘Say the vibes Kalaku eh, make me high, parachute eh, make me smoke kalaku eh.’

Soon after, Blaq Jerzee adds, singing about a popular strain of cannabis and the freedom of usage at Fela’s Shrine, otherwise known as Kalakuta; ​​’Kalakuta na the place, wey dem legalize Arizona, dey legalize Arizona’

13. Rasta by Yung L ft. Seun Kuti

‘Rasta! Who tiff my lighter, my herbs and ganja? I smell am for outside, Kalakuta!/ Rasta say e tiff my indo, who I go call no fit call popo, on a low, boys dem baza pon de low.’ 

What do you do when an illegal substance is stolen from you? Well with these lines and more, Yung L had flipped this conundrum into a tune, touching on one of the many risks marijuana lovers face, amidst saxophone riffs from Seun Kuti, making the record itself a collab between two popular weed lovers. 

14. Yard by Poco Lee ft Black, Bella Shmurda & Alpha P

"This is how we roll in this country, we smoke, we get high..." Black Sherif alludes on Yard. A cultural confluence of new age sensations from Nigeria and Blacko from Ghana, this song highlights another similarity the two countries share beyond the jollof wars and it's a love for weed.

Today being the 20th of April, 4:20, this certified stoners' anthem is sure to get a lot of rotation not only in Nigeria as well, but also in Ghana.

While some may be more popular than others, that’s all on our list of popular Nigerian songs dedicated to weed. We also have no answer to the standing question of whether the people influence the culture or the culture has influenced the people, but we do know what the reports say and that is the fact that Nigeria is one of the countries with the highest number of weed smokers, and a long list of musicians dedicated to the lifestyle, despite its illegality and the nation’s seemingly religious background.

So which one of the songs on the list took you by surprise with the breakdown and what songs do you think deserves to be on the list?

What is special about 420?

April 20, a day celebrated by marijuana enthusiasts, is also recognized as a time to advocate for the de-stigmatization of cannabis in society.

How did the term 420 came about?

In the 1970s when a group of teenagers from San Rafael High School in Marian County would ritualistically smoke marijuana at 4:20 each day. The number 420 became their code for marijuana. The five students called themselves the "Waldos," which referenced the wall they would sit on at their school.

What is 420 alternative name for?

420 is a code name for Marihuana (and offshoots: maría, mariana, mari juana, marinola, maripepa, etc.), doña juana, ganja, grifa, yerba, hierba, yerbasanta, césped/pasto/zacate, orégano, 420, joint, etc.

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The post '420 Day': 14 Popular Nigerian Songs dedicated to weed appeared first on NotjustOk.

The official lyrics for Wizkid's 2019-released hit song, Thankful, featuring Blaq Jerzee are available below.

Wizkid & Blaq Jerzee - Thankful Lyrics

Intro
(Blaq Jerzee on the beat)
Eyyy, e je e je e je
Blaq Jerzee, legend
O sam belebe, (e le kulele)
Brother mi (brother)
Kuele, robodo robo singer
No fit kili the ginger
Wo wo wo wo wo

Chorus
Odun yi o
Shayo go dey flow
Lowo yi o
Your aza go dey blow blow blow
L'odun yi o
Everybody go dey ta-pio-pio-pio-pio
Lowo yi o
Money go dey circulate o

Verse 1
Who no know, make e come dey know o
Sapa dey kill person o
Who no know, make e come dey know o
Owu dey kill person o
Early in the morning when i wake up o
When I wake up o
Say a little prayer and I thank God o
I dey thank God o
Yeah
Omo, owo ni mo ji ri (mo ji ri o)
And the blessing of baba dey cover me (yeahhh)

Chorus
L'odun yi o
Shayo go dey flow
Lowo yi o
Your aza go dey blow blow blow
L'odun yi o
Everybody go dey ta-pio-pio-pio-pio
Lowo yi o
Money go dey circulate o

Bridge
Ahhhhhhh
Yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah
Eruku yapa o yapa o
Baby yapa o yapa o
Omo yapa o yapa o
Awan demo o
Eruku yapa o yapa o
Baby yapa o yapa o
Omo yapa o yapa o
Awan demo o
O ohh oh o
Who no know, make e come dey know o
Sapa dey kill person o
Who no know, make e come dey know o
Owu dey kill person o
Owo ni mo ji ri (mo ji ri o)
And I dey thank baba wey dey cover me (yeahhh)

Chorus
Odun yi o
Shayo go dey flow
Lowo yi o
Your aza go dey blow blow blow
L'odun yi o
Everybody go dey ta-pio-pio-pio-pio
Lowo yi o
Money go dey circulate o

Outro
E je e je e je
Blaq Jerzee, legend
Ahhhhh

Explore Other Latest Music Lyrics Here

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The post 'Thankful' Lyrics by Wizkid Ft Blaq Jerzee appeared first on NotjustOk.

'No Stress' is co-produced by Trbl and Blaq Jerzee. It serves as the first-ever collaboration between both acts, Blaq Jerzee and 1da Banton.

Listen to No Stress here.

The post Blaq Jerzee Features 1da Banton on 'No Stress': Listen appeared first on NotjustOk.

Nigerian singer and music producer Blaq Jerzee teamed up with Ghanaian sensational singer Gyakie on 'Right Here' read the song's official lyrics below.

Blaq Jerzee & Gyakie - Right Here Lyrics

Gyakie
I want to know your name
I want to know the things that drives you insane
Look me in the eye, don't be shy I want this to stay
'Cause this love is all right here
I want to be the one you know that
I want to know all of your flaws
Ignore the rest, I want you all round
Baby don't leave, you know I won't
If you try that with me, I no go greee boy
Cause it's all I got right here

Blaq Jerzee
Girl you my major swear you my savior
And you know say me leave you for you
And I gat you for real
There's no major break up
'Cause we must make up
And you know say me live for you and I gat you for real

Gyakie & Blaq Jerzee
I can't tell it's like I'm loosing me
Baby you do things that brings me here
This one love I won't let go so free
'Cause it's all I got right here
I can tell is like am loosing me
Baby you do things that that brings me here
This one love I won't let go so free
'Cause is all I gat right here

Blaq Jerzee
Girl you my major swear you my savior
And you know say me leave for you
And I wanna gat you for real
There's no major break up
'Cause we must make up
And you know say me leave for you and I gat you for real

Blaq Jerzee
If you gat blames on me
Make you no stress on me
All your problems on me
No body else
If you gat blames on me
All your problems on me
Mami make you no stress on me
No body else baby call me

Gyakie & Blaq Jerzee
I can tell is like am loosing me
Baby you do things that that brings me here
This one love I won't let go so free
Cause is all I gat right here

Gyakie
I got you feeling something nice
I got you feeling slow
If you want to take it, something right
I got you feeling slow
Something I know I can't deny
I want you feeling so lit
Cause it's all I gat right here

Blaq Jerzee
I gat you feeling something right
I gat you feeling slow
Baby you came into my life
Baby you take my soul
Something that I can't deny
U gat me feeling so deep
This is all I gat right here

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The post Right Here Lyrics by Blaq Jerzee & Gyakie | Official Lyrics appeared first on NotjustOk.

Renowned beatmaker cum singer, Blaq Jerzee has released a new single titled 'BAGS' featuring one of the finest rappers in the game, Phyno. The new piece further portrays the beauty of a producer-rapper/singer collaboration in the music industry.

RELATED: Skales feat. 1da Banton - Say You Bad (Remix)

Produced by Blaq Jerzee himself, 'BAGS' serves as the singer's first output for 2022. It is a follow-up to his previous single 'Right Here' which features Gyakie.

Listen here.

The post Blaq Jerzee and Phyno Join Forces on new Single 'BAGS' | Listen appeared first on NotjustOk.

A rundown of some of the best new music by Nigerian and Ghanaian acts including ‘Lagos Anthem (remix)’ by Zlatan

Best New Music is our weekly roundup of some of the hottest music releases. It's time to update your playlist.

Follow NotJustOk’s specially curated playlist on Spotify - Afrobeats Hits.

Zlatan x Oberz x Frescool x Trod x Oladips - Lagos Anthem remix

For the remix of the street anthem, Zlatan taps Zanku Records' Oberz, alongside Frescool, Oladips, Kabex and Da Grin's younger brother, Trod to deliver this masterpiece as they remind you that ‘Money no dey Lagos’.

Vector x MI - Crown of Clay

Nigerian veteran rappers, Vector and MI finally squash their beef to collaborate on this track that showcases why the rappers can be seen as legends in the rap game and mentors to the next generation of Nigerian lyrical assassins.

Laycon - Wagwan

BBNaija 2020 winner, Laycon offers us this fresh joint as he makes us aware the money will look good on him.

Ruger - Abu Dhabi

Jonzing World act, Ruger dishes out this banging tune ‘Abu Dhabi’ off his debut EP titled ‘Pandemic’. Ruger shows his emotional side on this track as he cries out “Lord, I need my woman with me in my room make I no mad”.

Peep EP.

Lyta x Naira Marley x Emo Grae x Zinoleesky - Are you Sure

We have a full Marlian house on this one as Lyta recruits label honcho, Naira Marley alongside fellow Marlian soldiers, Emo Grae and Zinoleesky as they throw a question “Are You Sure” at their baby.

Ice Prince x Oxlade - kolo

Nigerian veteran rapper, Ice Prince links up with Nigerian singer, Oxlade on this brand new single dubbed “Kolo”.

Watch Video.

Legendary Styles x Falz - Looseguard (I See, I Saw) Remix

Fast-rising rapper, Legendary Styles teams up with Falz (which for me is a perfect pick for this remix) as they take turns to serve us this thrilling remix of “Looseguard.”

Mz kiss x Niniola - Scopa Tu Mana

Nigerian female rapper, Mz Kizz taps queen of Afro-house, Niniola for this banging collab dubbed ”Scopa Tu Mana” produced by seasoned beatsmith, Kukbeat.

Idahams x Falz - Man on Fire (remix)

The remix shines a light on the misconception placed on people as a result of their work of choice, style and behaviour. Idahams throws in some advice as Falz sprinkles his charm of witty lyrics on the tune.

Blaq Jerzee x Mr Eazi x Harmonize - Falling For U

Blaq Jerzee links up with Mr Eazi, alongside Tanzanian raving singer, Harmonize to deliver this smashing joint.

Di’ja - My Baby

Mavin Records songtress, Di'Ja serves us a brand new single dubbed "My Baby," produced by Tklex.

Pappy Kojo x Phyno x RJZ - Green Means Go

Ghanaian music star, Pappy Kojo links up with RJZ and Nigerian rapper, Phyno on this jam off his new album, “LOGOS II”.

And there you have it for this week...

Stream and Follow NotJustOk's Afrobeats Hitsplaylist on Spotify. It's got some of the best new afrobeats music out there. Updated daily.

The post Best New Music: Zlatan - Laycon - Ruger - Lyta - Vector - Pappy Kojo appeared first on NotjustOk.

Jokingly expressing his displeasure at the kind of beats being produced by Blaq Jerzee, Mr Eazi made a post on his social page on the 9th of March. He stated that he was going to baptize the music producer in a nearby beach because he wasn’t feeling the beats produced by Blaq Jerzee during their studio session. He wrote;

“Guys e be like say I go carry @blaqjerzee_ go baptise am for the Barbeach wey dey our back cos I no understand the kyn beats e dey nack for me ?”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Don Eazi (@mreazi)

The ‘Miss you bad’ crooner is currently working on new songs that will make up his forthcoming album. Also, he recently released his EP titled ‘Something Else’.

The post Mr Eazi Offers To ‘Baptize’ Blaq Jerzee, Here's Why! appeared first on NotjustOk.

The 20 Hottest Nigerian Songs Of 2020 (So Far)

An Overview: The 20 Hottest Songs Of 2020 so far

Last year ended well, with Fireboy DML and Davido delivering the biggest albums all year (Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps and A Good Time), in November.

A month later, the Party celebrations were up, with the December parties and all. Nothing suggested that barely months after, gathering like we once did, would be illegal.

With the lockdown (effected in response to the COVID-19 pandemic) came unwritten rules. They were no nightclubs and so music wasn't distributed as it once was. Rather, artists and teams suite content to have some sort of virtual experience. Almost all songs on this list has a sort of connection with an online challenge or trend.

Two songs from the aforementioned albums make it to this half-year list; 18 other records, which have been declared "the hottest" by our revered team of music heads, complete it.

Not best –obviously, because, objectivity is impossible– but no one can deny the popularity of our twenty songs. Dig in!

DJ Neptune, Joeboy, Mr. Eazi – Nobody

Possibly the biggest song of the year. So far no song has matched the buzz of this record which features, alongside the best voices in Eazi and Joeboy, the intelligent brain of DJ Neptune, who makes it all come together.

Simi – Duduke

"Duduke" was connected to Simi and hubby Adekunle Gold, and when visuals emerged (featuring a visibly pregnant Simi), people loved the record even more. Such a warm song which has captivated many, sitting on top of the Apple Music Nigeria charts for a long time.

Falz ft. Ms. Banks – Bop Daddy 

For a while, people couldn't do much to watch videos of beautiful women being beautiful, Falz's "Bop Daddy" playing in the background. The song, which features UK rapper Ms. Banks, is undoubtedly one of the biggest songs of the year and preceded the wave of Nigerian artists adapting to the increasing influence of platforms like TikTok.

Ladipoe ft. Simi – Know You 

At the height of its popularity, I wrote about how Ladipoe scored his first number one single with "Know You." It's a fitting song on the alluring nature of distanced love interests and the world it was released to –that will always be recalled when this song comes on.

Mayorkun – Geng 

"Geng" is arguably one of the biggest records of 2020, and went on to be made into an EP which features rappers from Nigeria, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. Mayorkun has never strayed far from his rap tendencies and on "Geng," he relishes the opportunity to pull cultural relevance with lines like "one Hennessey twenty men geng."

Omah Lay – Bad Influence 

Meet Omah Lay: The Brazen Bad Boy of New School Afrobeats

When we included Omah Lay on our 20 Artists to watch in 2020, we knew he was bound to excite with his Afro Fusion sound. "Bad Influence" is one such record: a song that's almost impossible to dislike, and boasts some of the most impeccable songwriting in Nigerian Pop.

Wande Coal – Again

We continue to be served splices of Wande Coal's genius and "Again" continues to be a sweet pain – we need new WC, and this record, one of the year's best, only stirs our longing. "Again" is a great jam and everyone knows that.

Oxlade – AWAY

OXYGENE, Oxlade's debut project, saw him record a great rise in profile. "AWAY," the Spax-produced song is the first and only single off that tape and is its undeniable hit record. With a video shot in Ghana by TG Omori, it soon shot the young artist into several charts, where he's been a fixture ever since.

Fireboy DML – Vibration 

Off Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps (which has been hailed as one of the best albums of the last decade) comes this selection. "Vibration" might have fallen second to "Scatter" when LTG was released (for the role of the party anthem) but since the turn of the year, things have changed and "Vibration" is a more enduring record. Till this day, it still bangs in a way very few songs of its time do.

Kizz Daniel – Jaho

When Vado put out his third project King of Love, it was opened with "Jaho," a single he'd released some months earlier. Actually in 2019. But "Jaho," an anecdote-styled record yet achieves sonic and thematic relevance –meaning it still sounds nice and hasn't had its message stunted over time.

Starboy ft. Wizkid & Blaq Jerzee – Blow

Soundman Vol. 1 was a great showing from Wizkid and the rest of his Starboy Entertainment imprint. On "Blow," the superstar connects with Blaq Jerzee for a song with racy intent, and was made popular by its subtle channeling of that in its chorus.

Davido ft. Naira Marley, WurlD & Zlatan Ibile – Sweet in the Middle 

Barely has a modern Nigerian song combined artists as diverse as "Sweet in the Middle." And it's to the toast of the producer, sound engineers, and the artists that it comes together beautifully. Released late into 2019, the record naturally crossed over and is yet one of the hottest Nigerian songs of 2020 so far.

Omah Lay – You

"You" is one of the great songs of its time: a love song remarkably done by a young man who's gone on to become the revelation of the year. Omah Lay announced his presence with "You" (which was released on February 14) and has never looked back ever since.

Adekunle Gold – Something Different 

Adekunle Gold was seguing into something different and we took notice. Just then, his latest record off his forthcoming third album was released. Months later, it's perhaps one of the hottest Nigerian songs of 2020 (as the charts show) and reflects AG Baby's nifty craft for picking the soul of a record and making it appeal to millions of listeners all over the world.

Burna Boy – Odogwu 

Produced by Kel. P, "Odogwu" came off Burna Boy's much lauded Grammy showing. This record, which tapped into the grandness of Highlife, was a victory strut from the African Giant.

Bad Boy Timz – MJ 

Undoubtedly the most resonant record of the year. Bad Boy Timz made sweet breakthrough with this lovable song which would have dominated the speakers were the hang out spots open. With months of riding its wave, Timz has now featured Mayorkun and Teni in a duo of remixes.

Rema & Rvssian – Beamer (Bad Boys) 

The Cool Bad Boy act is one Rema frequently taps into. "Beamer," his first release of the year, certainly did. With production coming from Jamaican act Rvssian, Remy Boy bounced. It's worth mentioning that "Beamer" features one of the best-known hooks of 2020.

Yemi Alade ft. Angélique Kidjo – Shekere 

A Shekere is an exciting handheld instrument. As this record between two African queens. Performed by Ms. Alade recently for the Global Goal: Unite for Our Future concert, its great international standing was even solidified. Locally, it was played on stations more keenly and has (also) been a regular sighting on the charts.

Naira Marley – Aye 

The Chief Marlian might be famed for his explicit worded bangers. But "Aye," a bubbly record, is cut from a different cloth. Over Owambe drums and swooning keys, Naira Marley makes a case for the good life.

Terri – Ojoro 

A while ago, Terri put out his debut tape Afro Series. Anticipation was stoked with the release of "Ojoro" and even after the release of the project, this song still ascended popularity, becoming a fan favorite and has been received lovingly by the streets. Certified banger.

Safe to say these are the 20 hottest Nigerian songs of 2020 so far. Have we missed any hit? Please let us know.

The post The 20 Hottest Nigerian Songs Of 2020 (So Far) appeared first on NotjustOk.

A run down of the best new releases, including a song off Terri's new EP, Afro Series.

Best New Music: Show Dem Camp – Tekno – Alpha Ojini – Starboy Terri

The past week was attended by a host of releases, especially yesterday. These are the songs we're feeling at the moment; some of these, though, was put out a while back. But promise: it's definitely still fresh.

Terri – Ojoro 

Terri has since trended as the anticipated Afro Series tape is released. "Ojoro", is an obvious standout, a vibrant afrobeats cut that spells out Terri's frustrations about a love interest.

E Kelly ft. Boybreed & Minz – Confetti

Super producer E Kelly has an EP (No Secrets) out on May 8th. The second single off that tape, "Confetti", is a mid-tempo vibe and features the talented trio of Boybreed and Minz. 

Mut4y & Elhi – Eu4ria

Elhi, on Twitter, recalled how he met the Starboy crew after he got an invite to an hotel where they were recording. He'd impressed DJ Tunez with a cover of "Causing Trouble". Months later, he's working extensively with one half of the Legendury Beatz duo Mut4y, and their 5-track EP is a sonorous affair, Elhi's sweet vocals matching the laid back Afro Pop groove of the production. The titular track is a standout.

Show Dem Camp – That Year 

After an Instagram live that saw them play music off their unreleased stash, Show Dem Camp was urged to put out those records. They listened. "That Year", a reflective number, takes on memory and appreciation, as the duo, helped by a Sir Dauda assist, do not hesitate to tell you they've put in the work.

Barzini – Rush 

The opener to rapper Barzini's superb Beloved Vol. 1. "Rush" is soft rap layered on a beat that makes for easy bops of the head. The hook, BOJ–esque, interpolates a Fela song and is one of the strongest points of this solid project. Do well to check it out.

DRB Lasgidi ft. Teezee, BOJ, Fresh L & Tems – Trouble

Off the Alté pioneering group DRB Lasgidi's debut album Pioneers comes standout, featuring Tems. A melodic affair, its percussion-heavy production inspires the vocal wonders from everybody on this song, especially Tems, who takes its hook and chorus.

Juls ft. Jah Cure – Wishes 

Prominent Ghanaian producer Juls, earlier today, released his project Happy Place. "Wishes", a ragga affair, features the brilliant Jah Cure, who delivers a most enjoyable performance.

Alpha Ojini – INDABOSKEE  

By now, the title of this song brings a certain prophet to mind, and yes, on his latest song, Alpha Ojini – a most creative rapper – takes that person to court. The song peels into the conventions of modern day religious extremism. With beautiful production and mixing done by Alpha himself, "Indaboskee" is just perfect, lyricism and everything else.

INDABOSKEE

On "INDABOSKEE", Alpha Ojini draws inspiration from the antics of now-viral Nigerian clergyman, Prophet Odumeje "Indaboski" Ohanaemere, to humorously weigh in on the proliferation of Nigerian churches.

WurlD – Ghost Town

Off a forthcoming EP, WurlD's latest song finds him in the terrain of his truest music: electro fusion. "Ghost Town" is produced by the legendary Spax and features intricate verses from WurlD who flexes his writing while telling a declarative message that reads all too perfect for the times.

Adekunle Gold – Something Different 

AG baby is your baby, Mr. Adekunle tells you. His latest single, is literally something different, from whatever you've heard in recent times, as the Afro Pop sound given a twist, the signature vocals of the artist and the groovy production marking this one from the bunch.

King Perryy – Jigga

The talented Afro Dancehall act King Perryy returns with his latest, a declarative cut that boasts of his place within his industry, while touching on personal relationships and calling the audience to dance, all in a little over two minutes. The Blaise Beatz production is top notch, too.

Tekno – Sudden

The Afro Pop giant Tekno has a penchant for expressing sociopolitical concerns in groovy music and "Sudden" is another thread that path. This emotive number is produced by Spax, who evokes drums and keys, and Tekno speaks the truth of the nation, how poorly funds supposed to ease the effect of the pandemic has been handled. Thieves, these politicians.

Blaq Jerzee – Onome

"Onome" taps into the laid back vibe channeled on Wizkid's "Blow" and "Arizona". Blaq Jerzee's new song speaks of a love interest as weed, and it takes this artist and producer higher. Jerzee's voice is refreshing and moves this song as well as the production does, a perfect marriage really.

TOMË ft. Wavy the Creator – Magical Fruits 

Off a forthcoming project, this song features two immaculate voices, as they lead you down a sensual world where all is calm and beautiful.

Sean Tizzle – Oreke 

Pay no heed to anyone who tells you Sean Tizzle hasn't been doing the work. His latest song, "Oreke", is a warm Afro Pop vibe, and features the crooning and delicate songwriting we associate Tizzle with.

D-Truce, 3rty & Tyleriddim – Omoge 

This trio of super talented artists join forces for this single, an afrobeats-influenced cut that features powerful vocals from all three – watch out for that hook by Tyleriddim. The sultry undertone of the song moves to the beautiful production, making for a very enjoyable listen.

So, there goes. Enjoy.

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Just in time for our independence day, Wizkid delivers an ensemble of danceable melodies.
Fever is a mid-tempo track with a steady kick that would place you in a calm mood. Fever is just one of the tunes Starboy has decided to drop today. Check out the other one on our next post.

Listen to Fever below and share your thoughts below.

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Kcee - Akonuche (Prod. By Blaq Jerzee)

Five Star Music General, Kcee is going back to back with steady and consistent music this year.

Barely two weeks after he broke the internet with his monster hit song 'Bullion Squad', he teams up with producer, Blaq Jerzee to deliver yet another smashing sound titled 'Akonuche'.

Listen below....

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Anola – Love Don't Cost (Prod. by Blaq Jerzee)

Anola’s interest is weaved around music. Her interest in music was sparked at an early age, while coming across a biopic of a 60's rock star. The music had energy, feel, and beautiful melodies whilst still being tremendously simple. She described it as instantly grabbing her imagination and from that moment on she was transfixed with music.

To her, music has been more than a hobby. It is a serious passion. She understands the importance of developing her vocal techniques and skills but also want to have an in-depth knowledge of music and the way in which it has evolved over the years.

She is fascinated by aspects such as the history of music and music theory. Music to her has no genre, therefore, she sing her emotions as experienced. Her style of music can be categorized as NEO-SOUL, R&B, SOUL, BLUES, and POP. She has various musical influences such as, Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Micheal Jackson, Whitney Houston, Beyonce Knowles and many more.

In 2006, Anola had the opportunity to sing background for a huge African Mega super star going by the name Tuface "2baba" Idibia who sang the sound track to the movie Phat girlz staring comedian Mo’nique titled “African Queen”. In 2008, her first single titled " Miss Me" alongside "Music in Me" was released. In 2010 she had her first performance as an opening act for a well known African singer songwriter Wande Coal. In 2011 she dropped another soulful single titled Biography
t al.

In the year 2013, she had the opportunity to perform at a few more African superstar mega concerts such as Bracket, Wizkid, Banky W and Skales and more. In 2014 she took part in the biggest Midwest Afrobeat festival in Chicago featuring Psquare, the Biggest Super Star Duos in Africa. In 2016, she was an opening act for Wande Coal and Tiwa Savage.

Anola's musical Journey has been a beautiful one thus far. She has developed her sound throughout the years, and her experiences makes her a force to be reckoned with. Her style of music is captivating but yet versatile.

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Kcee ft. Sarkodie - Burn (Prod. by Blaq Jerzee)

Kcee kicked off the year with new scintillating and WET photos which trended on blogs and social media. The photos were in anticipation of his new fire tune, 'Burn' featuring Ghanaian King of Rap, Sarkodie.

The song is classic Naija-Ghana fusion as both artists combine beautifully on it. This song is HOT!. . Listen to Burn below and feel the heat.

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Styl Plus - Aso Ibora (Prod. by Blaq Jerzee)

Styl Plus are back with a bang! Albeit without a member (Tundey) who has since gone solo.  Zeal and Shifi are now the flagbearers of the Styl Plus group and have just released a new song 'Aso Ibora' which simply means blanket in English. Check it out below and let us know your thoughts.

Styl-Plus, who have just been signed to Eskimo Records, are ready to release a new single titled "Aso Ibora (Blanket)"; this serenading tune depicts the essence of the brand and band that we have always come to know - "Aso Ibora," as produced by Blaq Jerzee, is set to rock the airwaves this Valentine's season and beyond, and give Nigerians a taste of the new and better Styl-Plus.

 

In Zeal's words,

"This song tells the story of an everyday person who is appreciative of the love shown to him/her; this song is also a message to Styl-Plus fans to thank them for their support through the years."

Having graced the musical scene with timeless classics, Eskimo Records presents the Blaq Jerzee produced tune, with mixed and mastering credits going to Zeeno Foster, alongside the electric Fiokee on the strings; this is sure to give you a perfect blend of ingenuity and Contemporary vibe - listen up and share your thoughts. | ENJOY!!!

ABOUT Styl-Plus
Just about 15 years ago, the Nigerian music industry began it's journey of expressiveness and started being a beacon of joy for the Nigerian people; one of the groups of artistes/bands that contributed to the phenomenal growth and acceptance of Nigerian music worldwide was Styl-Plus. With their unique sounds and blend of harmonies, they captured imaginations and never failed to deliver whenever the time came; particularly impressive, was their début single, "Olufunmi," which rocked airwaves both in Nigeria and abroad. It was such a success that other artistes in Africa followed suit by making good music and the rest is history; Styl-Plus' career has been filled with glitz and glamour as they've won multiple awards both home and away.

ABOUT Eskimo Records
Eskimo Records is a record label providing the platform for development of the potentials of budding artistes and professionals alike; it is only but a part of the Eskimo Groups that also includes Eskimo Suits, Eskimo Lounge & Restaurant - it is not news that Nigeria has lots of talent and Eskimo Records aims to uncover, polish and project these talented individuals. Boasting of the services of ace record producers D'Tunes and Blaq Jerzee, who have worked with various artistes and have produced various hit tracks, the quality of music Eskimo Records produces is high class, pace-setting and spell-binding; Eskimo Records today is announcing the signing of 4 new members into the family, among who, are the famous Nigerian Boy Band, Styl-Plus.

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David Grey - Do My Dance (Prod. by Blaq Jerzee)

David Grey debuts on our platform in style with this lovely tune titled 'Do My Dance'. Listen below and let us know what you think.

Super talented rising star 'David Grey' is making his grand entrance into the music scene with a brand new single 'Do My Dance'

'Do My Dance' is an Afro pop single written by David Grey & produced by the hitmaker 'Blaq Jerzee.

David grey is not just a pretty face but also a very talented music artiste, dancer and a guitar genie. 

Enjoy the song and watch out for the official video dropping soon. 

- Lalaboiy

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