Tag: US Music

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New Music Saturday!

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It’s Saturday so that means more new music has been released this weekend. Here are a list of a few new releases I’m loving at the moment.

1. Zayn – Fingers

It’s been a while since Zayn has released new music and it’s clear that in his time away he has spent it perfecting his sound. This R&B vibe song is about a failed love that has affected Zayn from using his fingers properly to message. It is clear in the song further on that the the fingers are used as a metaphors for his heart as he sings “Cause my fingers ain’t broken, but my heart is”. I’m a fan of this song and I hope his next album is filled with more songs like this.

2. CE – On & On

CE debuts another sensual track this time in the form of his new single “On & On”. I feel this song could be the song that demonstrates his versatility, uniqueness. and huge potential. The catchy hook “on and on” is a standout line throughout the song that hopefully people will be singing for a while. Personally I’ve had this song on repeat since its release and while you’re at it, check out the video too!

3. Brent Faiyaz – Lost (EP)

Someone introduced me to Brent’s music a couple years ago and I am forever grateful. Brent has just released a new EP called ‘Lost’ and it is everything I expected and more. My favourite songs have to be;

-‘Came Right Back‘; Standout line for me is “Why do I feel cursed if I’m so blessed now?” he sings in the second verse. I get the impression Brent is talking about the downfalls of his success in this song but I mostly like how his voice just has you gripped throughout.

– ‘Trust’; The best thing about this song are the adlibs. Brent uses his inner thoughts as backing vocals which you can hear throughout. You get the impression the song is him thinking out loud and questioning himself which I feel is a unique way of portraying a song.

-‘Target on My Chest’; The beat on this song is great and the way Brent transitions to singing from rapping is the best part too. The middle of the song cuts to some kind of instrument solo possibly from a brass instrument which further reiterates the feeling Brent’s songs can put you in. As a listener you feel invested in whatever he is singing.

Have a listen to the EP below:

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Throwback Thursday (US Style)

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Today’s throwback entry is from the legendary Destiny’s Child called ‘Emotion’. The song released in 2001 explores song of the emotions associated with a breakup; betrayal, loss and loneliness to name a few. The first line of the song “Its over and done but the heart ache lives on inside”, reminds us that even though the relationship is over, the pain is just getting started. Anyone who has gone through a breakup or had their heart broken will relate to this song unfortunately. The idea that when you break up with someone you love, you can never find better 8/ expressed; “Don’t you know there’s no (no body left in this world to hold me tight)”. One of my favourite lines is “Cry me a river that leads to your ocean” The symbolism in that line is overlooked. The idea that she wants him to be as sad as she is as long as it means they can be together again one day.

Overall although the song is not written by the girls or originally sang by them, I love the emotion (No pun intended, haha) they exude from the song. It also reminds us that sometimes our emotions are out of our control. The song is a beautifully presented song about the negative symptoms of the drug we call love.

https://open.spotify.com/track/0v1FiNbsrogBpgITmV9qTG?si=BcJgyqM3Sc2Lsx352H9u6w

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Lil Wayne – ‘Tha Carter V’ Review

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Lil Wayne finally dropped his highly anticipated twelfth studio album last week. Lil Wayne is one of the two scenes legends and it’s wonder to here him get back to doing what he does best. It’s taken me a few days to digest the music and there has been a lot of mixed reactions. Personally I liked the album, the music scene has missed Wayne and his metaphors and this album for me was a good piece of work. I am going to talk about my favourite songs on the album below and digest some of his infamous lyrics.

Track 1 – I love you Dwayne – This first track is a heartfelt spoken word from Wayne’s mum. She speaks about her love for her son and how proud she is of him. I believe that this track was necessary for the beginning of his album. This indicates a new direction in Wayne’s life where family is what matters most to him. It also shows a vulnerable side to him that I belive is a key reason why this tape is alot more deep, as it is very personal and honest.

Track 4 – Uproar Ft. Swizz Beatz – This is the latest song that has started a new dance challenge and you can see why! Swizz Beatz has the ability to change a whole song with his signature sounds and he certainly did. My favourite line is the simple “Where the love go? Five, four, three, two, I let one go”, the song is a feel good song. However let it not be overlooked, Wayne is warning his enemies and haters that he is ready for battle! Check out some of the dance challenges online and even 1 from the main man himself!

Track 6 – Dark side of the Moon Ft. Nicki Minaj –

Wow!! This is one of my favourite Lil Wayne and Nicki songs and my favourite song on the album. Nicki really surprised me with her vocals and her voice with Wayne make some perfect harmonies. Again, you get a glimpse of Wayne’s vulnerable side and Nicki’s compassion with lyrics such as “The sky is falling down, I am falling for her quicker” and “High above the ground but I’m under her charisma”. These lyrics are classic Lil Wayne metaphors and I like the juxtaposition in his words. Another beautiful thing about this song is the way the beat compliments the words and the harmonies. I have personally been replaying this song since the release and I’m sure it will be a fan favourite for both fan bases.

Track 7 – Mona Lisa Ft Kendrick Lamar

This is probably one of the best songs on the album. The storytelling talents of Kendrick and Wayne are amazing. The song is based on a woman who sets her boyfriend to get robbed and the way the story is told is very creative. Just as you get used to Wayne and his storytelling, Kendrick comes in with his equally powerful verse! The two of these rappers together is a match made in lyrical heaven. The beat and tone change in Kendrick’s verse is genius! The whole song grips you and you feel the point of views from the characters they are talking about.

Track 9 – Open Letter

This song is pretty personal where Wayne speaks to his family and friends about his fears about life. He opens up about his depression and low points. The song fits with the personal theme/touch of the whole album.

Track 10 – Famous Ft Reginae Carter

Another family affair as this song features his first daughter Reginae. Reginae sings the chorus so well and the song contains typical Wayne lyrics such as “Can’t talk to myself, ’cause mama said don’t talk to strangers” and “And you can’t spell fame, without me” which stick out throughout the song. The song touches on the highs and lows of Wayne’s rise to fame and how it has affected his lifestyle. It’s great to see Wayne collaborating with his daughter and I hope this is the first of many more.

Track 23 – Let it all Work Out

The outro track of the album finishes of where the intro began. Wayne talks about the frustration he felt waiting to drop this album; “I’m in this bitch, Yeah, was on the outside, looking in this bitch” but also reassures us that he is back and here to stay; “I’mma sit in this throne so long, ‘Till it’s a fucking rocking chair, nigga”. I like the fact that despite all the trials and tribulations Wayne had to endure he still shows us that he prevailed and made it through. The ending lines “Let it all work out” (yeah)” resonates and makes you think about life as a whole.

Overall, I really enjoyed listening to this album, rap may have changed but Lil Wayne is still consistent in terms of his content. I like the personal touch to the album as I belive it makes it more authentic and more effortless. It was a long wait for this album but I’m definitely satisfied!

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 14-20

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Day 14: (A song played at my wedding);

I love today’s challenge!!! As a Nigerian, music is very important to our culture so song choice is very vital. the song I will be picking is by Nigerian Superstar D’Banj. The song is D’Banj singing about how he has fallen for a woman who has changed him in the best way possible. I have loved this song from the beginning of time and I can guarantee this song will be played.

D’Banj – Fall in Love (2009)

Day 15: A song that is a cover by another Artist;

It’s crazy to think that some covers of songs sometimes sound even better than the original versions. The first song that came to my head would have to be the late Aretha Franklin’s song ‘Respect‘ ( 1965). Most people probably have not even heard the original version of this song by Otis Redding. Needles to say it was Aretha’s version that propelled this song into the hall of fame.

Day 16: One of my favourite songs from a movie;

I’m feeling very motivational at the moment so the first song that comes to mind is an upbeat song! The song is called “Believe” from the film Honey and is from US artist Yolanda Adams, released in 2003. I used to play this song every morning before my exams when I was in school and is still one of my favourite songs. With lyrics such as “You can never give up, you can reach your goals, just talk to your soul and say…
I believe I can (I can)”. This song is beautiful and the lyrics and sentiments that you should always believe in yourself and keep going are lessons everyone needs to be reminded of.

Day 17: A song that features my favourite artist;

I have more than one favourite artist so I will pick a song that features some of my favourites. Rick Ross and Jay Z are two of my favourite rappers alive. This song is amazing enough to feature the both of them. The common theme between Hov and Ross is that they both have the ability to rap and tell stories that you want to listen to. Both rappers remind me of Biggie and his rapping style. Have a listen below.

Day 18:A song from the year I was born (1993);

Day 19: A song that makes me think about Life;

Again this is hard to pinpoint. Most songs I love make me think about life in different aspects. It could be about love, heartbreak, happiness, sadness, God, family…all aspects of life. A song by Gospel group The Walls Group called ‘Satisfied‘ is an example of a song that made me think about life. The song made me question my priorities in chasing materialstic things when I should be chasing my relationship with God.

Day 20: A song that reminds me of my mum;

Wow!! My mum loves music as much as me so this is hard to pin to one song! My mum always told me whatever you go through in life, know someone else has gone through it already and has a song about it. Any Motown song reminds me of my mum but this song in particular is one her favourites!

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 12; (Songs that I love from 2011)

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2011 was an incredible year for Hip-Hop and music as a whole. As you can probably tell by now I can never seem to stick to one song for these challenges so here’s a few songs released in 2011 that I love;

1. Big Sean Ft Chris Brown – My Last (2011)

Wow! I remember exactly where I was when I first heard this song! It was being premiered on the old BET hit show ‘106 & Park’. I remember it being the day I fell in love with Big Sean and his music. The song definitely was the song that propelled Sean into stardom. We can’t forget the impact Chris Brown’s vocals have in this song, I’m sure Chris Brown can slay every feature.

2. Drake – Headlines (2011)

This was the first song to be released from Drake’s legendary “Take Care” album. To be honest, the whole album could be in this post but I’ll stick to one for now. The song gave us the impression that Drake was developing a lot of confidence from his success and was ready to share it with the world. The song was produced by ‘Boi-1da’ and ‘Noah “40″ Shebib’ and the production is incredible especially towards the end of the song. Favourite line has to be ; “I guess it really is just me, myself and all my millions”! What a line!!!

3. Wretch 32 Ft Josh Kumra – Don’t Go (2011)

UK music was big in 2011 and this song in particular was a popular one. Wretch 32 could be argued to be one of the country’s great rappers. Wretch 32’s clever wordplay and Josh Kumra’s soothing voice make a match made in heaven.

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 10; (Sad)

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Today is the 10th which means it’s time for Day 10 of the challenge! As I gave 12 songs that make me happy it’s only right I give a few songs that make me sad.

1. Jennifer Lopez Ft. LL Cool J – All I have (2002)

Something about this song that can just put you in your feelings. “Be easy don’t make decisions when you’re mad”…that quote stuck with me throughout the song. The video is memorable too with the snow and the fur and the pinkness!

2. Fantasia – Lose to Win (2013)

“if it makes you cry, cry, cry”, Fantasia has the ability to demonstrate her emotions perfectly in a song. This song implies that in life sometimes you have to take a loss in order to win / be happy again. The song also shows how no matter how hard you try with someone, sometimes it’s not enough for them & you have to accept it.

3. Chris Brown – The Breakup (2015)

This song wasn’t released officially but it was on Chris Brown’s “Before the Party” Mixtape. The song resonates with me because I believe it’s a vulnerable side to Chris. He talks about how he was stuck between being happy about the fact he was due to be a father but also sad about the fact he has hurt his girlfriend at the time. The song reminds me of Usher – Confessions to an extent.

4. Rihanna Ft. Ne-Yo- Hate that I Love you (2007)

Love this song but the content gives me an element of sadness. That feeling when you can’t let go of something and you hate that you don’t have that control!

5. Diddy Ft Faith Evans & 112 – I’ll Be Missing You (1997)

This song was released as a tribute to the late Notirious B.I.G & is such a beautiful tribute at that. The blending of Faith Evans and Diddy with 112 makes this song the perfect classic. The song will have you missing people yourself.

6. Brandy & Ray J – Another Day in Paradise (2002)

7. Aretha Franklin – Bridge over troubled water (1971)

8. K-Ci & JoJo – All My Life (1997)

9. Nas – Dance (2002)

10. Maxwell – This Woman’s Work (2001)

This song was originally by Kate Bush but Maxwell’s version was featured in the classic film “Love & Basketball“. The high notes in this song are enough to pull at your heartstrings.

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 9

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As today is the 9th…I will include 12 different songs that make me happy & explain my reasoning behind the choices.

1. Notorious B.I.G – Juicy (1994)

Okkkkkkkk!!! I am a HUGE Biggie fan but this song does things to me! Whatever my mood, as long as I hear “IT’S ALL GOOD BABY BABY. IT WAS ALL A DREAM”, I’m sold! This song is probably already in the hall of fame for one of the most iconic songs of the past few decades.

2. Notorious B.I.G – Mo Money Mo Problems Ft.Mase & Diddy (1997)

Another Biggie entry!!! The video in particular for this song was released after his death and is probably why people have a sense of love for this song! The nostalgic feel of Diana Ross’ song “I’m coming Out” also provides the track with a unique feel. “B.I.G. P.O.P.P.A”….another legendary and memorable intro to a Biggie verse! Eugh! This song to me is the definition of happiness!

3. Blue – U make Me Wanna (2002)

My music preference is very wild I’m aware. I was a huge fan of Blue when I was younger and this song in particular has such a positive feel. The video is of them on a yacht and it used to make me so happy to watch when I was younger.

4. Westlife – World of Our Own. (2001)

Another pop classic! Another song I remember memorising when I was younger! The lyrics are beautiful and I love how pop music was just about happiness and love in those days. The harmonies in this song were also way ahead of their time! Even listening now, I am amazed! Have a listen below!

5. S Club 7 – Bring it all Back (1999)

I was also a huge fan of S Club 7 when I was younger & even now listening to this song I believe the message is relevant. “Don’t stop, never give up
Hold your head high and reach the top”…such an inspirational song.

6. Cam’Ron Ft Juelz Santana – Hey Ma (2002)

A CLASSIC! How can you NOT be happy listening to this song!? Even the beat makes me smile! Reminds me of simpler times when rappers were polite….when bandannas were in fashion, people used to crip walk, when men used to wear oversized clothes! Good times.

7. Bow Wow Ft Chris Brown – Shortie Like Mine (2006)

I was a huge Bow Wow fan for a very long time. I have all of his old albums and this particular song was huge when it came out! Chris Brown was just becoming big and this collaboration definitely had every girl in love! This song definitely makes me happy.

8. Ja Rule Ft Ashanti – Mesmerize (2002)

The video for this was a parody of Grease and I will never forget it! The blending of Ja Rule and Ashanti’s voices will always sound beautiful. They always has hits but listening to this song again makes me feel nostalgic and that will always bring out my happiness.

9. Drake Ft Young Thug – Ice Melts (2017)

A more recent song from Drake featuring Young Thug. This song makes me happy due to the fact the beats is wonderful, the drop is wonderful and Drake’s harmonies are a wonderful sound. The lyrics are also pretty sweet and all in all, this song definitely makes me feel a sense of happiness when listening.

10. Kanye West Ft. Chris Brown – Waves (2016)

“Sun don’t shine in the shade….A bird can’t fly in the cage”. Those intro lines resonate with me. This is definitely a song that needs to be played out loud to appreciate the beat!

11. Jay Z Ft. J Cole – A Star is Born (2009)

This song is so amazing to listen to now because Jay Z really predicted a lot of greats. “Drake’s up next…see what he do with it”…amazing to hear.

12. Keri Hilson Ft Kanye West – Knock You Down (2009)

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30 Day Music Challenge 1-8

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I recently posted a challenge that I am now going to backtrack.

Day 1 – A song with a colour in the title:

Love this song by Bonkaz on one of his EPs. Check it out below ;

Day 2 – A song with a number in the title:

I’ve posted this song before. It’s a track by British rapper Tinie Tempah from his “Junk Food” Mixtape. The song features UK Sensation J Hus. This in my opinion is one of the best J Hus feature verses he has produced.

Day 3 -A song that reminds me of Summertime:

Any 90s song reminds me of Summertime due to the fact I feel happy and free when I listen to a song from that era. However, if I had to pick a more recent one it would have to be Kano – “T-shirt weather in the Manor”. Anytime the sun is out and the temperature is high, this is one of the songs that comes to mind.

Day 4 – A song that reminds me of someone you’d rather forget about:

This is a funny one….for me anyone that’s had a part in my life usually has a song I associate with them. If I had to pick, I would choose K Camp – Money Baby. That song reminds me of all the mysoginistic people I have met in my life.

Day 5 – A song that needs to be played loud:

Every song needs to be played loud! If I had to pick one (of many) I would say J Hus – Did you See.

Day 6 – A song that makes you want to dance:

It’s hard to go all the way back but at the moment it has to be song of the moment “In my Feelings” by Drake. I dare anyone to listen to that song without busting out their Shiggy moves.

Day 7 – A song to drive to:

The best songs to drive to have to contain a big amount of bass. Not too hyped up so you can concentrate on the road but enough to make you want to bop your head. I would have to recommend two songs that will have you in your feelings. One by 169 and Dave – Got You & the second by Yo Trane – High Off You.

Day 8 – A song about drugs or alcohol:

First artist that comes to head is Eminem. Eminem released an album called Relapse in 2009 where he rapped about alcohol and drugs among other issues. One of the songs titled “My Mom” documents how Eminem blames his mum’s drug taking for the reason he is also an addict.

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“They don’t make them like this anymore”. (Album) – Mario

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I have always been an avid music lover and every month I will try and give you a review from an old album that I still love. Back in the days when physical copies of CDs were the only way to play music and albums were really important.

This month’s entry is from US R&B singer Mario and his album “Turning Point” which was released in 2004.

Mario became well known for his 2002 song “Just a Friend” featured on his first album and which is also added here.

My favourite tracks on this album have to be:

18: This is the first track on the album and I feel it was very necessary to start off the project. Most people would still see Mario as the young boy in his “Just a Friend” song and so this intro track reminds us that’s he’s “grown up”.

Stand out Line: “Next time y’all underestimate me (Don’t do that)”

Let Me Love You: Classic throwback. This song was so big when it came out and rightly so and is still probably Mario’s biggest hit. The song, which was written by Ne-Yo had a beautiful sentiment behind it and I’m sure everyone remembers the baggy clothes Mario wore in the video! The song is based in Mario pleading with a woman to leave her unhappy relationship and be with him as he would treat her like the Queen she is.

Stand out Line: “You’re a dime plus 99 and it’s a shame, don’t even know what you’re worth”

Couldn’t say No: The tone of the album changes with this song as we start to see Mario isn’t as innocent as we think. This song is Mario asking for forgiveness and trying to explain why he cheated on his girl (“Couldn’t say No”). The production on this song is really good too.

Stand out Line: “I got bad news that I gotta break to you. I know you gonna act a fool but I gotta let her know”.

Boom: This song features Juvenile and from the first few seconds you can tell how upbeat the song is going to be. This song for me embodies a classic early 00’s song. Listening to it now, you can’t help but feel a little nostalgic. There are many references to lyrics from old 90s songs too which help.

Stand out Line: “Represent yo town” (When the beat changes and he names some places)

How Could You: This song is like the opposite of “Couldn’t Say No”. We get the impression his girl has cheated on him and here he sings about hurt. The songs feels like a typical R&B song with the slow melody, the frequent harmonies and Mario singing his heart out.

Stand out Line: “How could you put him on to the Ghetto Kama Sutra??”

Girl I Need: The song featuring Cham has a reggae feel that fits so well. Mario sings about the qualities he wants in a potential girl and with his harmonies make this song one of my favourites. Cham’s verse is also a great addition.

Stand out Line: “I need a girl that smart (and really intelligent) a girl with heart somebody who dont take no shit”

Here I Go Again: This song is about Mario who keeps going back to an ex despite the negative things she does. He begins to question his strength seeing as he keeps going back to the stress and aggro. Probably a very relatable situation with some people.

Stand out Line: “Am I crazy? Have I lost myself? Is this a sin?”

Nikes Fresh Out The Box: Here Mario compares his woman to a fresh pair of Nike Air Forces! Sneakerheads will see the connection..the idea that he will treat her as something precious like he does with his trainers. I’ve yet to hear an analogy like this and it is quite a compliment to compare a woman to something he cares about the most. The sentiment reminds me of a different version of metaphysical poetry where lovers are compared to unusual objects.

Stand out Line: “I see her, I want her, Got to have her like (Nikes fresh out the box)”

Like Me Real Hard: I love the vulnerability in this song. Mario is singing as a man who has suffered heartbreak in the past and is trying to convince a woman he likes, who also has suffered, that she should take a risk with him. He encourages her to take it slow explains that he does not want to rush into anything serious. I like how he sings about reassuring the woman who is obviously having doubts.

Stand out Line: “We’ve been broken by love and we both need time to heal”

C’Mon: This song is such a feel good song from the beginning to the end. The production is also great.

Stand out Line: “Where did you come from, I wanna thank your moms for bringin’ u into this life, and makin u my type”

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New Music!

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OK so there’s been a few new releases the past week! I am going to put my 3 favourites below.

1. City Girls – In my Feelings (Remix)

OK so this version (of Drake’s hit “In My Feelings” featuring the City Girls) contains the full version of the ladies’ verses. I really like these girls and I’m so glad they are finally getting the recognition they deserved. It’s such a shame that one of the members JT is I’m jail but it’s nice to see that Reesha is still keeping it going. Im sure these girls are going to go far.

2. Nicki Minaj – Barbie Dreams

OK OK! So Nicki Minaj finally released her highly anticipated album “Queen”. This song in particular got the world talking. The song name drops a number of male rappers in a roast kind of style. For me what is more exciting is that the song pays homage to Biggie’s song “Just Playing (Dreams)”. As a big Biggie fan I could instantly hear the similarly in the flow delivered by Nicki and the one by Biggie. In addition we are used to hearing songs from male rappers dissing females or female celebs and it is refreshing to hear a female rapper call out men without sugar coating. The song shows why Nicki is one of the best female rappers about as her unique punchlines and flow stand out throughout the song.

Have a listen to Nicki’s song and the original by Biggie below;

3. Travis Scott – Sicko Mode Ft Drake.

“Sun is down, freezin’ cold, that’s how we already know, winter’s here”. As soon as you hear Drake you know the song is about to be good! This is one of the tracks from Travis Scott’s new album and one of my favourites. The switch in flow after the 3 minute mark is incredible, you could think it was two songs in one!

Have a listen below;

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Queen Naija

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Queen became popular as part of a couple with her now ex partner Chris Sails on YouTube. After the end of the relationship she began to publicly work more on her music and we were gifted with her song ‘Medicine’. Queen is definitely talented and her voice can be argued to be a sound we are missing at the moment. She released her first EP titled “Queen Naija” and the EP is filled with 5 beautiful R&B songs. The songs featured are based on her life and what she has experienced; being heartbreak, love and also being a mother.

For me R&B is definitely a genre that can be argued to be dying down unfortunately. This EP is simply classic R&B and reignites the feel for the genre. The songs are very personal and you can feel the emotion in every single song. A sign of a good song is when the listener can either relate or get a good sense of what the singer is feeling or has felt. I believe this EP does everything…raw emotion, great melodies and all the while keeping us entertained.

I really hope she is here to stay because her voice is definitely a beauty to hear.