Dancefloor dedication within 'Morayo' album: Wizkid's review unmasked
On **Friday, November 22, 2024**, Nigerian superstar Wizkid unveiled his sixth studio album, 'Morayo', under Starboy Entertainment and RCA Records. The title, which translates to "I see joy" in Yoruba, sets the tone for the record that promises a beautiful tribute and a hedonistic pick-me-up of a journey.
The album opens with the introspective track 'Troubled Mind', where Wizkid expresses a desire for vibes and joy, yet mentions a troubled mind. This emotional tone is further emphasised in 'Pray', a song that carries a more emotional weight compared to other tracks on the album. The lyrics of 'Pray' look towards the future, with lines such as "My mama pray for me / And, I know, the heavens dey for me / And Jah make a way for me."
'Morayo' is not just an anthemic record that keeps the jubilance of Afrobeats alive, but it also honours Wizkid's late mother, Jane Balogun. The album builds on the high-energy yet effortless aura of his previous release, 'More Life, Less Ego', pulling inspiration from various genres including amapiano, dancehall, and highlife.
One of the highlights of the album is 'Bend', characterized by thumping hand drums that compel listeners to "bend your body, ko jo". Another standout track is 'Bad Girl from Barbados', where Wizkid collaborates with Asake. This track is a masterclass on Afro-piano, showcasing the fusion of different genres that Wizkid is known for.
'Bad For You', featuring Jasmine Sullivan, is an ode to love with a neo-soul feel. The album also includes a seductive number titled 'Apres Minuit', featuring French rap heavyweight TiaKola. 'A Million Blessings', featuring gentle pianos, string quartets, and a message of gratitude and resilience, adds a softer touch to the album.
'Break Me Down', which dabbles in pop-garage, adds a unique flavour to the album, demonstrating Wizkid's versatility as an artist. The album concludes with 'Pray', leaving listeners with a sense of hope and optimism.
Overall, 'Morayo' is a testament to Wizkid's ability to create music that resonates with a global audience, while also honouring his roots and personal experiences. The album is a must-listen for fans of Afrobeats and Wizkid alike.
[1] https://www.britannica.com/topic/Yoruba [2] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-48165664
The variety of genres on 'Morayo', including Afrobeats, amapiano, dancehall, and highlife, reflect Wizkid's versatility as an entertainer in the realm of music. 'Bad Girl from Barbados', a collaboration with Asake, showcases the fusion of Afro-piano on the album, adding another highlight to the record's collection.
