Ahmed Olalade, popularly known as Asake, released his third album, Lungu Boy, August 9th, which encapsulates the essence of his musical journey. The album, named after the Yoruba term "Lungu," which refers to a hidden, personal space where one is free and confident to be his/her self, is a thematic exploration of Asake’s journey from the streets of Lagos to the international stage.
One thing is clear: Asake didn't write this album for the fans; he wrote it for himself. He has anticipated this moment in his career, often saying, "I just dey blow, but I know my set." Lungu Boy is a manifestation of Asake's vision coming to fruition. This is an album crafted by a global superstar for himself, filled with themes of hustle, resilience, echoes from his past and the realities of his current life.
The album opens with an adlib of Asa’s Ojumo ti mo, setting the tone for what’s to come.
The first track, MMS featuring Starboy Wizkid, sets a reflective tone for the Album. With lyrics like "Oye Olohun" (meaning "God understands"), Asake and Wizkid share stories of gratitude, acknowledging that although the unexpected happens, and tragedies occur, God understands, and they remain thankful. Wizkid's verse is particularly personal, reflecting on the loss of his mother, which adds a layer of emotional depth to the track. The production on this track is exceptional, with rich percussions, trumpets, and an overall vibrant energy.
In Mood, Asake delves into his daily realities: “Some days I'm feeling jovi / Some days I'm feeling gloomy / Some days I'm feeling like I no wan chill with anybody” … “Sometimes I pick my key and drive around, they think I'm cruising / DND no disturbance / Take a new ink to feel normal / Losing my mind with a G face / Ọmọ no reflex when I feel pain / Life is a race, keep it running / Face my fears, keep it solid / Allahu akbar to my maker / Bow my head, I feel so grateful.” He repeats his first verse in Spanish which shows he is willing to experiment and push his sound to even new audiences.
In My Heart, Asake shows his softer side, singing about love and what it means to him. The song reveals the "lover boy" in Asake, offering a refreshing contrast to the rest of the album.
WorldWide needs no introduction. Asake declares his global status, stating the obvious with lyrics like, "Mr. Money Worldwide / E don go oh." His features on the album—Travis Scott, Wizkid, Stormzy, Central Cee, and Ludmilla—are a testament to his international reach. Production brilliance from Sarz, P.prime, Magicsticks, SAK PASE, The Compozers.
Active, which was released shortly before the album and features Travis Scott, is a high-energy track. Asake samples Jazzman Olofin and Adewale Ayuba’s Raise Da Roof, blending Hip Hop, Amapiano, New Orleans Bounce, and Funk into an uptempo party anthem.
Surulere featuring Stormzy mirrors the vibes of MMS. With lyrics like "Ise Oluwala ko seni to ye" (meaning "God works in mysterious ways"), Stormzy’s impeccable storytelling and flow complement Asake’s tempo and vibe. The song touches on advice from Asake's mother, his daily realities, prayers, and giving thanks to God.
Skating is a track where Asake sings about his new found hobby—skating—and manages to turn it into a vibe. This track reinforces that Asake made this album for himself, as his personal interests are front and center.
Mentally delves into Asake’s daily thoughts and the strategies he employs. He blends Afrobeats and Amapiano seamlessly, offering a straightforward narrative about his mental state: “I strategize, I give thanks.”
Ligali switches up the vibe with exquisite production by the legendary Sarz. This track is an instant club anthem, with lyrics like "Blow my trumpet gan, Olohun, uhhn / O den gbe mi de'be gan, Olohun, uhhn" (which translates to "You take me there a lot"). Asake indeed takes us there on this track.
Whine featuring Ludmilla is a standout track that effectively fuses Ludmilla's Brazilian flair with Asake’s signature sound, creating a track that is both playful and energetic. The song’s production leans heavily on percussion, making it a danceable tune that could easily find its way into clubs across multiple continents.
The final track, Fuji Vibe, has been eagerly awaited by fans for years. First teased about 3 years ago, the fully produced track is finally here. This four-minute track is sensational, and its release signifies that Asake has always been that guy, even before his fame.
Lungu Boy is a masterful display of self-expression, a deeply personal project that highlights Asake's unwavering dedication to his craft and his journey. By staying rooted in his origins while embracing his global stature, Asake delivers an album that is both introspective and celebratory. This project isn't about catering to mainstream expectations; it's about creating something authentic and meaningful to him. As a result, those who resonate with Mr. Money's unique sound will undoubtedly connect with this album, appreciating its depth and authenticity.
