OLAMIDE AND ASAKE: A COMPARISON OF THEIR TOP 5 SONGS

Olamide and Asake: The street vibes that have taken over.

OLAMIDE: Who is Olamide?

Olamide Gbenga Adedeji, born on March 15, 1989, is a Nigerian rapper, singer, songwriter, and record executive. With his significant influence, he has played a crucial role in launching the careers of several Afrobeats music stars in Africa.

He creates music in both Yoruba and English languages.

In 2011, he released his first studio album, titled “Rapsodi,” while being signed to Coded Tunes.

His subsequent album, “YBNL,” was released under his own label called “Yahoo Boy No Laptop,” also known as YBNL Nation.

This album featured hit singles such as “First of All,” “Voice of the Street,” “Stupid Love,” and “Ilefo Illuminati.”

On November 7, 2013, Olamide released his third studio album, “Baddest Guy Ever Liveth,” which included popular singles like “Durosoke” and “Yemi My Lover.”

On July 17, 2013, he achieved the distinction of being the first Nigerian to secure an endorsement deal with Ciroc.

Olamide – Lagos Boys Lyrics: This song incorporates repetitive phrases and a blend of English and Yoruba language elements. It showcases the artist’s identity as “Baddo” and explores themes of Lagos boys, celebratory gatherings, and embracing a vibrant lifestyle.

The composition features an infectious rhythm and prominently includes the phrase “Ske ske robo ske robo ske ske robo” throughout. Performed by Olamide also known as “Baddo” or “Eyan Nla” (meaning a significant individual in Yoruba), the lyrics exude an energetic and upbeat ambiance, highlighting the allure of parties and joyful experiences associated with the Lagos lifestyle.

Additionally, specific references to locations like Agege, Mushin, and Bariga within Lagos enhance the song’s local essence, evoking a connection to the city’s dynamic street culture and thriving music scene.

Olamide – Melo Melo: The song portrays Olamide’s genuine satisfaction and sincere approach to his relationship. He expressed his longing for love and recognition from his partner(unnamed), underscoring the positive influence his partner has had on their life.

Through the recurring question, “Melo melo, melo melo la fe wi? Melo melo, melo melo la fe so?” the Olamide ponders the depth of his partner’s affection and the level of mutual understanding they share.

The lyrics also explore the themes of dedication and loyalty, affirming the couple’s unwavering support for one another and their commitment to cherishing their bond.

Both the Olamide and his partner acknowledge past mistakes, expressing remorse while vowing to cherish their relationship. By incorporating Yoruba language elements, the lyrics infuse cultural nuances and local essence into the song.

The repeated phrase “I no dey denge, denge, I no dey pose” emphasizes the speaker’s authenticity and refusal to put on a facade. Overall, the song conveys deep appreciation, unwavering commitment, and a profound longing for a genuine and meaningful connection within the relationship.

Olamide – Eleda Mi: The song reflects a strong sense of self-assurance and unwavering resolve. In the initial lines, Olamide expresses gratitude towards his fate (“Eleda mi”) and acknowledges the influence of his mother (“Ori iya mi”). He assert his resilience and proclaim his invincibility, declaring that no one can undermine his spirit (“Ma ma je kan ja mi o”).

The repetition of “ma ko le, ma ra le” emphasizes his steadfast refusal to be hindered or disheartened. Through its lyrics, the song conveys a message of triumphing over obstacles and striving for success. Olamide references his journey from a challenging past when they couldn’t even afford shoes (“Them don forget the time wey me and my guys no get shoes”) to their present state of flourishing (“Say my belle, e don dey come up”).

The recurring phrase “Ma lo wo se, ma ni motor” can be interpreted as a symbolic representation of progress and a refusal to be burdened by negativity. The mention of Port Harcourt alludes to a connection with the city and its vibrant atmosphere.

Overall, the song exudes confidence, resilience, and an unwavering determination to surmount challenges while cherishing the journey and embracing the happiness that life brings.

Olamide – Goons Mi: The song pays tribute to Olamide’s inner circle, affectionately referred to as “goons,” expressing gratitude for their loyalty and composed demeanor (“Awon eruku mi,” “Awon loni ki n ma para toni keep cool mi”).

It conveys a strong sense of togetherness and solidarity within their community. The lyrics underscore Olamide’s unwavering resolve and unwavering commitment to triumph, drawing parallels to difficult circumstances in their local area (“So bi gobe sele ninu hood mi”).

The phrase “T’eba gbo bajinotu e ma r’awon goons mi” suggests that when others become aware of their achievements, they will acknowledge the steadfastness and backing of their goons. The song incorporates allusions to renowned personalities and symbols of success, such as Emmanuel Omokachi, Jesus Christ, and Samson.

These references are employed to illustrate the artist’s ambition and longing for greatness. The lyrics also showcase Olamide’s impressive lyrical prowess and his ability to captivate an audience with their rap skills. He asserts his dominance and capacity to intimidate others through his talent and confidence.

Overall, the song conveys a deep sense of pride in their community, an unyielding determination to surmount challenges, and a celebration of their accomplishments. It underscores the significance of loyalty and unity while highlighting the artist’s ambition and talent.

Olamide – Durosoke: The song exudes confidence and self-assuredness, expressing Olamide’s elevated status and accomplishments. The repeated phrases like “Se kowale ko durosoke” and “Se kowale ooo ko duro soke ooo” infuse the track with a lively and captivating rhythm.

The lyrics emphasize Olamide’s ability to attract admiration and attention, as evidenced by the line “Them be feeling us, Now dem dey famz just to be with us.” There is a strong sense of pride in his achievements, underscored by references to wealth and a proclamation of no longer needing to count it.

The lyrics showcase Olamide’s exceptional skill in wordplay and rhyming, captivating the audience with his lyrical prowess. The song maintains a playful tone throughout, skillfully blending Yoruba and English languages in its lines.

Overall, the song radiates a confident and celebratory ambiance, underscoring Olamide’s triumphs, popularity, and talent through an infectious and energetic approach.

ASAKE

Who is Asake?

Asake, born Ahmed Ololade also known as Mr. Money, born on 13 January 1995, is a talented Nigerian Afrobeat singer and songwriter. He is currently signed to both YBNL Nation and Empire Distribution, showcasing his growing prominence in the music industry.

Interestingly, his stage name “Asake” is derived from his mother’s name, adding a personal touch to his artistic identity. Notably, Asake’s rising popularity was recognized on 3 February 2023 when Audiomack announced him, alongside Kizz Daniel, Snazzy the Optimist, and 1ucid, as one of the top trending and most streamed artists of the time.

This acknowledgment underscores Asake’s growing influence and the reception his music has garnered from audiences. Asake frequently incorporates lively Afro and Amapiano-inspired production in his music. His style has been likened to Fuji, partly attributed to his Yoruba singing and the inclusion of slang in his songs, according to some listeners.

Asake – Terminator: The lyrics express a desire for connection, rejecting violence and exploitation. They find meaning in love and search for a lighter. “Colour” symbolizes authenticity, while “omo mummy” conveys endearment. “Banana” metaphorically suggests sensual desire.

Asake admires the person’s power and captivating presence with terms like “Elemi l’oma last” and “Eji malaika.” Urging punctuality, he emphasizes on avoiding procrastination and use “Terminator” to suggest decisiveness. Repetitive vocalizations and playful interjections create a catchy rhythm. Expressing self-awareness, Asake shows caution about minor matters and gratitude for rising. Playfully referencing “Mr. Money,” he compares himself to a reliable service like Gokada.

The lyrics reaffirm the invitation, admiration, and significance of “Elemi l’oma last” and “Eji malaika.” Asake highlights his amazing qualities, urging against lateness and procrastination. The agreement signifies understanding and continuation.

Overall, the lyrics exude a playful, confident, and flirtatious tone celebrating desire and admiration

Asake – Joha: The lyrics incorporate a blend of languages such as French, Spanish, and English. The initial lines convey a sense of brotherhood and mention money. Asake inquires about the listener’s well-being and presents a challenge to embrace a new style.

He pose questions about the strength of individuals and the power of authority. The reference to “Mr. Money” implies efficiency and a disregard for wasting time. The phrases “Ogaranya” and “Ebelesu” are repeated, potentially indicating status or wealth.

Asake expresses a desire to continue with enthusiasm and emphasizes the allure of a voluptuous figure. The lyrics highlight the team’s strength and the size of their engine, juxtaposing it with his small physique. The mention of Apala and soca draws attention to different music genres. The lyrics persist with repetitive phrases and expressions of avoiding trouble.

Overall, the lyrics exude a self-assured and boastful tone, celebrating personal accomplishments while issuing challenges to others.

Asake – Peace Be unto You (PBUY): The lyrics portray a story of determination and ambition. Asake motivates his friend to persist and focus, disregarding others’ opinions. He adopts a carefree attitude, enjoying life without judgment. He asserts his fulfillment and acknowledge others’ desire for his success. Despite fame, he remains self-aware and rely on his intelligence.

Various greetings in the lyrics suggest a diverse following. He expresses gratitude for blessings and ask for double from God. Nigerian slang adds personality. References to “Anita,” “Range rover,” and skin tones hint at fascination with women and material wealth. Asake acknowledges challenges and highlights his confidence.

Mentions of Sallah, adaptability, and wealth boast add flavor. Gratitude to God and determination to maintain success prevail. Overall, the lyrics exude confidence, celebrating achievements and thanking God. Nigerian slang enriches cultural authenticity.

Asake – Organise: The lyrics convey a sense of wisdom and orderliness, with Asake highlighting their consistent ability to stay organized. He acknowledges varying levels of intelligence among people, including his own. The lyrics touch on the presence of confusion and disorder, dismissing those who behave unruly as lacking wisdom.

Asake asserts his own clarity and understanding, indicating his superiority. The lyrics refer to a chaotic situation represented by “polopolo,” and Asake expresses a strong determination to avoid being controlled by others. He confidently asserts his autonomy and freedom to act as he please, taking charge of his own decisions.

The overall tone of the lyrics is confident and assertive, celebrating personal organization and wisdom, while positioning Asake as someone in control of his choices. The repetition of key phrases adds emphasis to the message conveyed.

Asake – Ototo: The repetition of “Iya won, iya won” and “Ati baba won” emphasizes the importance of family and parental figures. The mention of “Mr. Money” suggests wealth or financial success. References to praying to Jah and being celestial indicate a spiritual inclination.

The phrase “Go high” symbolizes ambition and striving for success. “Carry your own, I no get stamina” highlights self-reliance and the consequences of lacking support. The lyrics express a desire for prosperity and acknowledge the need for effort and divine intervention. “Omo ologo” represents a child of wealth or a precious child, emphasizing the pursuit of affluence. Themes include family, spirituality, ambition, self-reliance, and financial success.