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Tag: Yemi Alade

  • Yemi Alade releases highly anticipated self-titled album, ‘It’s Yemi Alade’

    Yemi Alade releases highly anticipated self-titled album, ‘It’s Yemi Alade’

    Afro-Pop queen unveils 16-track album featuring Bien, Don Jazzy, Ferre Gola, Sofiya Nzau, Njerae, Spyro, Singuila, Teni, Jeriq & Fave

    Global Afro-pop superstar Yemi Alade has released her highly anticipated self-titled studio album, ‘IT’S YEMI ALADE’ – a celebration of her identity, heritage and the ever-evolving sound of Africa.

    The 16-track project from one of Africa’s most celebrated musical exports brings together Yemi Alade’s signature Afropop sound with elements of Highlife, Afrobeats, R&B, Lingala, Dancehall and Afro House. True to its title, it’s her most personal body of work yet – an authentic reflection of her artistic evolution, experiences and influences, while transcending genre boundaries. At once reflective and fearless, the album honours her musical roots while embracing new sonic possibilities, creating a nostalgic yet forward-facing experience that showcases an artist continually evolving without losing sight of the sounds and stories that shaped her.

    At a pivotal point in her career, IT’S YEMI ALADE offers fans an intimate window into her personal journey and artistic evolution, reflecting the experiences, growth and influences that have shaped her sound.

    Speaking about the album and the inspiration behind it, Yemi Alade says, IT’S YEMI ALADE is a love letter to my core fans. It is an ode to my Highlife roots, a celebration of where I come from, and an exploration of where I am going. The album is a mixture of new, old, and borrowed sounds. I wanted to experiment, to explore different textures and bring together genres and influences that feel both familiar and unexpected. This mixology of sounds is not simply about redefining Highlife. It is about elevating it, introducing it to new spaces while still honouring the spirit and foundation that made me fall in love with it in the first place.”

    Featuring an acclaimed roster of pan-African music superstars including Kenya’s Bien, Njerae and Sofiya Nzau; French artist Singuila, Nigeria’s Spyro, Don Jazzy and Jeriq; and DRC Congo’s Ferre Gola – ‘IT’S YEMI ALADE’ brings together distinctive voices and sounds from across the continent, underscoring Yemi Alade’s commitment to musical diversity and cross-continental unity. Each track on ‘IT’S YEMI ALADE’ serves as a chapter in an intimate musical diary, taking listeners through a rich spectrum of genres, emotions, moods and experiences. From infectious songs like “Owa” made to light up dancefloors, bangers like “Minister of Enjoyment” and some made for reflective moments like “Earth Song”, “Titanium” and “Paradise”; the album explores love, celebration, resilience, identity, spirituality, culture, everyday enjoyment and the experience of being an African.

    Yemi Alade has a new 16-track album

    The album has already made an impact with a series of singles, including “Ala Bekee” featuring Nigerian Afrobeats heavyweight and respected music executive Don Jazzy and “Don’t Be Shy” featuring Bien, which has emerged as one of Kenya and East Africa’s biggest charting songs of the moment. Other early offerings that gave a glimpse into the album’s diverse sonic world include “Yemi Mi Lova” featuring Spyro, “Don’t Worry” featuring Fave and “Shawa Shawa (Ashawo).”

    ‘IT’S YEMI ALADE’ ALBUM TRACKLIST:

    Alhaja

    General Market

    Coco Na Yam ft. Ferre Gola

    Little Kiss (E Good)

    Yemi Mi Lova ft. Spyro

    Ala Bekee ft. Don Jazzy

    Owa

    Minister of Enjoyment

    Don’t Be Shy ft. Bien

    Titanium

    Earth Song ft. Sofiya Nzau & Njerae

    Paradise ft. Singuila

    Away ft. Teni

    Overtake ft. Jeriq

    BONUS TRACKS:

    Worry ft. Fave

    Ashawo (Sawa Sawa)

    With ‘IT’S YEMI ALADE’, Yemi Alade builds on a career defined by global success, cultural pride and an unwavering commitment to African music. The album captures an artist embracing evolution while remaining firmly rooted in the sounds, stories, heritage and communities that have shaped her journey. Her distinctive artistry and deep respect for African culture continue to resonate with audiences around the world, reinforcing her standing as one of Africa’s most influential music icons and cultural ambassadors.

    YEMI ALADE ALBUM STATEMENT:

    For the first time ever, I decided to randomly seek the help of my fans. I put the question out online and asked them what they thought my next album should be called. The response was overwhelming. I received so many suggestions, but one title kept coming up again and again: ‘It’s Yemi Alade.’ So, in many ways, this is a fan-picked album title, even though it is also self-named. I love that distinction. It feels refreshing to do something different, to give the people I make music for a voice in something as personal and important as naming the album. This time, I allowed my community to make that decision with me.

    At its heart, this album is a reminder to the people who have been listening since day one of the journey and a warm introduction to the new members of my community. It is a celebration of evolution without losing identity, a body of work that says, after all these years, this is still me. This is still my sound. This is still Yemi Alade. And this time, my fans helped give it a name.

    ‘IT’S YEMI ALADE’ is out worldwide via Effyzzie Music.

  • Yemi Alade releases “Mbali” – an Ode to peace, escape & self preservation

    Yemi Alade releases “Mbali” – an Ode to peace, escape & self preservation

    Award-winning global music powerhouse Yemi Alade is back with a refreshing and uplifting new single “Mbali” — which means “Far” in Swahili. The feel-good track is a sonic exhale – light, breezy and deeply resonant with fans navigating a fast-paced world. Released via Effyzie Music, “Mbali” marks her second solo drop of the year and sees the Nigerian superstar embracing the need for distance from stress, pressure and negativity, while inviting listeners to unwind, recharge and dance.

    Yemi Alade, shared the track’s inspiration and vibe, “Mbali is the song you play to live your life  – after a long day’s job, when you’re starting your morning or when it’s time to party the African way. It’s about choosing joy, claiming your space and protecting your mental peace.”

    A smooth blend of afro-pop rhythms and soul-soothing melodies, “Mbali” is produced by Yasso, same hit producer of Yemi’s GRAMMY-nominated single “Tomorrow” off her Rebel Queen album (2024). In “Mbali”, the two collaborators don’t shy away from similar themes inspired by the universal desire to escape and reconnect with one’s peace of mind.

    “Mbali” follows the success of Yemi Alade’s previous release, “My Padi” and continues to build anticipation for her forthcoming album, currently in the works. With “Mbali”, she reminds fans why she remains at the forefront of contemporary African music, boldly defining joy, identity and resilience on her own terms.

    Having performed at AFCON opening ceremony to iconic stages set by the United Nations and Global Citizen to the British Royal Family, Yemi Alade’s consistent global rise has cemented her as one of Africa’s most celebrated and influential voices. With “Mbali”, she once again demonstrates her versatility and unmatched ability to blend meaningful messages with feel-good sounds that cross borders and cultures.

    Stream “Mbali” now on all major platforms.

  • Yemi Alade releases “Baddie Remix” featuring Femi One (Kenya) & Konshens (Jamaica)

    Yemi Alade releases “Baddie Remix” featuring Femi One (Kenya) & Konshens (Jamaica)

    Grammy-nominated Afropop sensation Yemi Alade has released the highly anticipated remix of her hit single “Baddie” featuring Femi One from Kenya and Konshens from Jamaica. The cross-continental collaboration released under Effyzzie Music Group unites Africa and the Caribbean, through a fusion of Afrobeats, Hip Hop and Dancehall.

    Shot in Kenya and Miami, the music video, directed by award-winning filmmaker Ovie, amplifies the song’s global appeal, perfectly capturing the essence of Yemi Alade’s international aura. Ovie’s creative vision brings the track to life, blending cityscapes with cultural elements and modern aesthetics. The video highlights the superstars’ undeniable chemistry, unique style and influence in music and culture.

    Yemi Alade

    Yemi Alade, known for her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence, delivers yet another electrifying remix, reinforcing her position as one of Africa’s top music exports. Femi One, Kenya’s trailblazing rapper adds her signature fierce lyricism in the track while dancehall heavyweight Konshens injects his unmistakable Jamaican flavour to the remix.

    Speaking on the collaboration transcending borders Yemi Alade said, “I’m a huge fan of Konshens, and we connected via Instagram DM and made good music. Femi one has always been one of my favorite female MCs. I’m happy we made this remix.” Femi One added, “Being part of ‘Baddie Remix’ is a milestone. Collaborating with Yemi and Konshens has been a dream and I’m excited for the world to hear what we’ve created. This is more than a song; it’s a vibe!” Konshens echoed the excitement, stating, “This remix is fire! It’s an honour for me to be in one track with two of Africa’s baddies. Yemi and Femi brought their A-game and together we’ve created a banger that represents the best of Africa and the Caribbean.”

    This release follows closely on the heels of Yemi Alade’s first solo Grammy nomination for her hit single “Tomorrow” off her album ‘Rebel Queen’ from which the single “Baddie Remix” is taken. Yemi Alade says, “Tomorrow is about my inner thoughts, desires and prayers, and it goes to show that the gift of tomorrow is the number desire and need for every human on the face of the earth.”

    ‘Rebel Queen’ album has received critical acclaim for its bold themes and innovative sound, further cementing Yemi’s place in the global music scene. The 2025 GRAMMYs will take place on Sunday, Feb. 2, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, where Yemi will compete in the Best African Music Performance category.

    Yemi Alade x Femi One x Mammito

    Yemi sums it up, “Rebel queen album is an album that keeps giving, each song is a piece of my life’s journey in melody and rhythm. It gives me unfathomable joy when I see my people connect with any of the songs. Thank you for rocking with me over the years. I promise to keep it coming.”

  • Yemi Alade named Spotify EQUAL Africa’s Artiste for September

    Yemi Alade named Spotify EQUAL Africa’s Artiste for September

    Spotify has announced Afropop sensation Yemi Alade as the EQUAL Artist for September 2024. The multi-award-winning singer, popularly known as “Mama Africa” by fans for her dedication to championing African culture and music, continues to make her mark on the global stage.

    Yemi Alade’s electrifying performances and powerful voice have earned her recognition worldwide allowing her to represent African music on international platforms. Her undeniable talent and powerful voice have captivated audiences across continents. She has collaborated with global superstars such as Beyoncé, Angélique Kidjo, and Awilo Longomba to name a few. She has also toured the world, showcasing the richness and beauty of African music, captivating audiences across continents and cultures.

    “Spotify’s EQUAL Africa program is dedicated to empowering female voices in Africa, spotlighting artists who continue to push boundaries with their artistry,” says Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu.

    “Yemi Alade exemplifies the calibre of talent the program aims to support. Spotify is proud to be associated with Yemi Alade and will continue to use the EQUAL Africa program to provide support for women in music, amplifying their voices and helping to showcase their incredible talents to a global audience”.

    With a career that has spanned over a decade, Yemi Alade has undoubtedly established herself as one of the most prominent and influential female artists in the Nigerian music industry, earning a dedicated fanbase both at home and internationally.

    We sat down with Yemi Alade to learn more about her and her music:
    What is that one surprising thing your fans might not know about you?
    One surprising thing my fans don’t know about me is that despite this energy I exude I’m actually an introvert. Some would say I’m an introvert who likes to go out just to eat food! How would we call that? A “food-trovert” maybe?

    When did you realise that making music was in your destiny and what is your WHY for pursuing
    this craft?

    I have always loved music but I realised that I always knew that my voice had an effect on people and I loved that effect because it meant that I could connect with them even without touching them, without speaking directly to them. I felt a vibration that I enjoyed. It became a career after I won a talent show in 2010 and since then my life has been on the road chasing music and making music.

    Which African songs or artists did you grow up listening to?
    As a kid, I was really blessed to grow up in a big family and the age ranges of the family members were far and wide so I got the opportunity to listen to music that was even older than my age range. I fell in love with music from the likes of Sunny Adé King, Shina Peters, Onyeka Onwenu, and Christy Essien. There’s a long list of African artists I was listening to at a very young age and that really opened my palette to the huge range of music that we have.

    To someone who has never heard your music, how would you describe the sound, tone, and style?
    My music is a perfect blend of a high-life pop, R’n’B, and afrobeat. It’s a beautiful blend that is inspired by a bit of jazz or blues here and there. If you listen closely you’ll pick the tones. I don’t like to be in a box but I know that my music is a fusion of African sounds, and the core of my music is African rhythm.

    Any advice for someone dreading following their dreams?
    The beautiful thing about dreams is that you envision them in your sleep, but the crazy part is that you have to dream while awake to achieve them. It is an unending journey so if you dread following your dreams, then maybe that dream is not yours. You need to go back to bed and dream another dream because it’s not going to work. That’s what I would say.

  • Yemi Alade’s new single “Tomorrow” ushering her upcoming new album

    Yemi Alade’s new single “Tomorrow” ushering her upcoming new album

    Global Afropop superstar Yemi Alade has released a new single “Tomorrow”— a lead up to her upcoming tenth body of work titled ‘Rebel Queen’, set for release in 2024.

    “Tomorrow” is an uplifting and up-beat track produced by Yasso. The new single showcases Yemi’s vocal range on different levels. She sang lead and all the backing vocals that made up the choir in the background.

    Ahead of the release Yemi Alade reveals, “Tomorrow is a timeless piece that honors the aspirations of the future and the ongoing pursuit of turning them into achievements. This is a dedication to all those envisioning brighter days, serving as an anthem for champions.”

    The single speaks on the importance of the gift of tomorrow and its promise for a better day. It’s about having another opportunity to achieve things we couldn’t today. It encourages one to place their trust in the divine guidance from God despite the uncertainty of the future.

    Yemi Alade is excited to present a wholesome body of work with the new album. She revealed that ‘Rebel Queen’ album will be a cocktail of different genres with multiple flavours designed to appeal to every single music lover from any corner in the world. She says, “I created this album with the sole purpose of creating music I grew up loving and the variety I have grown to love now. I was inspired by the core African music of Highlife and different genres that got us excited as Africans.”

    ‘Rebel Queen’ album represents Yemi Alade’s originality, bold spirit and global domination to a great degree. She is revered for her electrifying live music performances not only on big stages and stadiums across the world but also for exclusive audiences such as the United Nations, Global Citizen and the British Royal Family to name a few.

    Having started the year 2024 on a big note – performing at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opening ceremony, Yemi Alade is now set to headline her solo show in Zenith, Paris – La Villete, France on 21st September 2024 alongside her African Train Band, as part of 2024 tour series.

  • Yemi Alade releases surprise Amapiano EP ‘Mamapiano’

    Yemi Alade releases surprise Amapiano EP ‘Mamapiano’

    Global Afropop superstar Yemi Alade asserts her renowned musical prowess in her new EP ‘Mamapiano’ and now ventures into Amapiano.

    She experiments successfully with four brand new tracks. She says, “Mamapiano EP is the soundtrack to set the mood for the rest of the year into 2024. Just press play and I’ll do the rest. These four tracks carry rhythm and melodies that accompany you everywhere regardless of the occasion.”

    She adds, “I just wrapped up my 40 country USA / Europe tour and I decided to end the year on a high with a playlist-gift from me to you. This EP will certainly set the perfect mood and I assure you won’t need to skip a beat.” She flaunts a mesmerizing melody in the self-affirmation and gospel-inspired song titled “Mind Ova Mata (Amazing Grace)”. While at it, she praises God for His love and grace, picking her up whenever she is down, and giving her hope and the ability to conquer.

    “EFCC” is a party song that promises to be an instant Tik Tok success. The lyrics can be likened to lovers’ quarrel composed like an ideal conversation. “Get up” is a cocktail of genres (such as Afrobeat, Dance, Amapiano, Hip hop, Pop) and one can easily see the Michael Jackson flair Yemi Alade delivers this track with. The track is infectious and quite the party favorite.

    On “Ogini” she recounts a night spent with her girlfriends to celebrate her birthday. The song highlights the key elements including partying, extravagant spending and enjoying the moment.

    In 2023, Yemi continues her reign on the continental music charts, with a collection of hits maintaining their dominance like “Lipeka”, “Fear Love”, “Fake Friends (Iró Òre)”, “Pounds & Dollars” feat Phyno, “Baddie”, “Jo Jo” feat. Bisa Kdei and “Bright Future” with Mr Vegas.

  • Afropop Queen Yemi Alade drops ‘Fear Love’ – Groovy Afropop Classic

    Afropop Queen Yemi Alade drops ‘Fear Love’ – Groovy Afropop Classic

    Nigerian global star Yemi Alade prepares fans for new album with ‘Fear Love’ – Brand New single 

    Afropop global music star Yemi Alade is back with a brand new hit record – “Fear Love” – a groovy and Afro-fusion track – released on Friday ! Written by Yemi Alade alongside Kunmi and produced by Hulla; “Fear Love” is a groovy and easy listen track with addictive percussion influences adding onto a rich musical experience.

    Yemi continues to command the world stage in 2023 alongside The African Train Band. Her AFRICAN BADDIE WORLD TOUR ‘23 is currently making stops in America and Europe with electrifying performances to sold out venues. She took some time to reflect on “Fear Love” saying, “This song came to me at a time when I needed to voice these thoughts. It’s like therapy, if you let it sink in.”

    The lyrics and melodies to this song ring a bell for many. Insecurity shows up in different forms like when you find someone to show deep affection for. The new single takes on such moments when you develop feelings for someone or experience love but still remain cautious – safeguarding your heart.

    “Fear Love” follows the success of “Fake Friends (Iró Òre)” – the lead single off Yemi’s upcoming seventh body of work set for release in the last quarter of 2023. She shares more, “My upcoming album is a representation of my thoughts, needs, experiences, stories, ideas and my desire to connect with every listener on each song. Every song is potent with stories.”

    Yemi continues to rule charts in 2023 with fan favorites hits like “Pounds & Dollars” feat Phyno, “Baddie”, “Jojo” feat. Bisa Kdei and “Bright Future” with Mr Vegas. These releases have cumulatively surpassed 20 million views on YouTube – only.

  • Nigerian global star Yemi Alade has released new single Fake Friends – set to feature in her upcoming 7th studio album

    Nigerian global star Yemi Alade has released new single Fake Friends – set to feature in her upcoming 7th studio album

    Afropop reigning monarch Yemi Alade releases “Fake Friends” – brand new single set to feature in her upcoming album. The Afropop and Highlife catchy groove has a deeper meaning, touching on human connections and the result of fake love or friendship.

    With this new relatable single, Yemi celebrates true friendships and puts fake friends at bay. “Fake Friends” (Iro Ore) is the first single off Yemi’s upcoming seventh body of work set for release in 2023. Yemi Alade gives an exclusive glimpse into the project, “This upcoming project is a representation of my thoughts, needs, experiences, stories, ideas and my desire to connect with every listener on each song. Every song is potent with stories.”

    “Fake Friends” lyrics take Yemi back as she reminisces on humble beginnings. She sings, “Shey you go dey..If money no dey my pocket ooo..Back when I dey live my life on a low budget oooo..I no dey pick your call..You dey vex for me..When I dey knock your door you dey form for me..”

    Yemi Alade is a heavy-hitter when it comes to orchestrating global hits that spark viral trends and acclaim. “Fake Friends” follows the success of her 2023 singles “Pounds & Dollars” feat.Phyno, “Baddie”, “Jojo” feat. Bisa Kdei and “Bright Future” with Mr Vegas. These releases have cumulatively surpassed 17 million views on YouTube – only.

    In May 2023, Yemi was featured on the first cover of Nigeria’s Marie Claire magazine. Beyond the studio, Yemi continues to make an impact in the entertainment world, donning titles such as composer, actress, and producer. She recently announced her new role as the first global ambassador of WinFund. She is also a coach and judge on the ongoing season 1 of The Voice Africa.

    Yemi continues to command the stage alongside The African Train Band with electrifying performances , enthralling thousands of revelers and her fans with her extensive AFRICAN BADDIE WORLD TOUR ‘23 making stops in America and Europe.

  • Yemi Alade releases new music video for ‘Pounds & Dollars’ featuring Phyno

    Yemi Alade releases new music video for ‘Pounds & Dollars’ featuring Phyno

    Afropop reigning monarch Yemi Alade releases enthralling visuals for “Pounds & Dollars”. Internationally recognised as ‘African Baddie’, she has set the tone for the year dropping the music video for “Pounds & Dollars” featuring Penthauze rapper Phyno.

    This is one of the hit songs from her highly successful ‘African Baddie’ EP which was released in 2022 and follows the success of “African Baddie” which has surpassed 7.5 million views on YouTube.

    Watch “Pounds & Dollars”

    On the track, the songstress sings, “What’s gon be is gon be, my mama say, do the necessary and get down on your knees. What’s gon be is gon be, pray every day, do the necessary, your hustle go pay.”

    The song, tagged a prayer song by many because of Yemi’s lyrics which harps on the importance of hard work and prayers, became an instant hit with over 2 Million streams, soon after release. Its brand new music video comes with a Clarence Peters directed visual that offers an astute visual portrayal of the theme.

    “Pounds & Dollars” visualizer was released prior in December 2022 perhaps to whet the appetite of her legion of fans who took to social media to express their expectations for a video of the song. Masses have also spoken about how Yemi Alade seems to drop a hit song almost every month, calling her a ‘true musician’.

    Stream ‘African Baddie’ EP HERE

  • Nigerian rising star Guchi features Yemi Alade in new single titled ‘I Swear’

    Nigerian rising star Guchi features Yemi Alade in new single titled ‘I Swear’

    Nairobi, Kenya.. Fast rising star Guchi is back with a new jam “I Swear” featuring the award winning Yemi Alade. 
    For her new single “I Swear”, Nigeria’s purple pop princess Guchi incorporates Yemi Alade’s vocals over a soothingly steady afro-groove produced by ChechDaProducer.
    Guchi, and Yemi’s chemistry is unmatched in this new single as is seen on the video out on YouTube. This release marks the last lap before the delivery of Guchi’s second studio project out soon.
    Speaking about the latest project, Guchi opines. “I am super excited about this song and the fact that i got to work with one of Nigeria’s top female artiste, this just shows hardwork and consistency clearly pays. It has been my dream to work with Yemi Aladr and our stars finally aligned and we have this masterpiece to show for our efforts”.
    While Guchi is the crowned queen of heartbreak pop, this song represents a different phase of the cycle that produced hits like Jennifer and Shattered.
    “I Swear” addresses steadfast love and its calming effect on a satisfied partner. Guchi and Yemi Alade go verse for verse, in the appraisal of a lover who ticks all the boxes. Guchi acknowledges the insanity of this kind of love and Yemi pledges her availability, pleading for the emotional frequency to be maintained.
    The product is a contending fan-favorite, laced with millennial appeal and bursting through the borders of their unique demographics. Killing two birds with one song, Guchi’s fulfillment of working with Yemi Alade also quenches the thirst of fans who have long hoped for the duo to collaborate.
    The Speedometer hit maker has been giving us jam after jam and we cant wait for the next release.