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The much-anticipated fifth installation of Davido’s musical repertoire is here. The event, hype, and promotion have led to this defining moment of musical artistry and cultural upheaval—the wait was worthwhile. 5ive represents Davido’s impressive longevity and the sustainability of his musical stardom. It is a testimony of his presence and impact, and more importantly, his manifesto for afrobeats as a global, distinctive sound. Since its release, the reactions have been more than positive, steadily gaining traction, and evidently on its way to local and global critical acclaim.
The 17-track masterpiece is a veritable grandeur of artistic proportions and a musical tour de force. The album is not a dramatic shift from its predecessors. He maintains his distinctive sound and musical flow; however, the differential points exist in what it celebrates, the harmonised features and the multicultural influences. The album is head-bopping, and it completely consumes you, entangling you in its artistic wake. It is an escape, providing relief and eargasmic sensations.
The album starts with “Five by Alhanislam”, which is a proclamation of what the album is about and what it represents. It creates a sense of intrigue and anticipation, piquing your curiosity for more. It is followed by “Anything”, which is an inspirational piece. It maintains a soothing, mid-tempo and melodious flow. “Be There Still”, “CFMF”, and “10 Kilo” are more upbeat, more indicative of Davido’s signature sound. They make you get up and dance—proper gbedu music. “Offa Me” features the incredible Victoria Monet and it is the first international collaboration following the serial sequence. It is a melodious synergy of R&B and Afrobeats, creating enthralling soundscapes.
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In “Holy Water”, collaborates with Victony and Musa Keys. Musa Keys’s Amapiano, vocal chops and atmospheric sounds marry really well with Victony’s Afro-fusion, expressive vocals and trap-inspired hooks. In “Titanium”, Davido shows his vocal chemistry with Chris Brown and further showcases their beautiful relationship as friends and business partners. As with his previous collaborations, Chris Brown brings that R&B factor that serves as a soothing variance. That shift when his voice interjects, that sharp striking difference in vocals while still meaning to the same beat, gives the song depth and fresh layers. “Tek” features the sassy Becky G. It starts with edgy saxophone instrumentals, which are added intermittently through the song. It is energetic and rhythmic, with traces of urban Latin pop and reggaeton tradition. “With You” features the sensational Omah Lay, and he brings those somewhat melancholic, low-tempo sounds with a minimalist tone.
The features in this album are a massive talking point, especially the international collaborations. This year’s features are different. They are carefully curated to radiate and complement each other. There’s a fluidity that seems symbiotic; every feature feels like a duet, a much more organic collaboration. It is a cultural melting pot, showcasing that distinctive genres can blend well together to create something truly incredible. So, you will find Amapiano sounds, Caribbean sounds, Latin sounds and R&B sounds—truly blending our worlds.
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Davido really doesn’t try to be different with this album. It maintains Davido’s vibrant beats, passionate hooks, and his blend of Afrobeats. We’re not confining his music to a bubble, but we stress that the album doesn’t take away his distinctive sound. The album has Davido written over it; powerful beats, high tempos, party vibes, gbedu music. Essentially, he capitalises on his unique sound because it is what he does and he does it well.
5ive is a great album. It is a vibrant and culturally robust piece of art that shows Davido’s dedication and consistency. It maintains Davido-centric musical terrains while still permeating through multicultural soundscapes. It is the album to listen to before you go out to give a speech, it is something to listen to while you’re engaging in your favourite physical activity, it is something to pocket moments and experiences.
5ive is a five out of five.
