When the undisputed star of Afrobeats chooses to open his heart, the world can't help but listen. Wizkid's sixth studio album, 'Morayo', is more than just a collection of songs—it's an intimate tribute to his late mother, Jane Balogun. This album is more than just music—it's a heartfelt tribute wrapped in beats and melodies that only Wizkid can deliver. Expectations for this album? Astronomical. But Wizkid isn't new to this; he's true to this, and he delivers.
After months of teasing and anticipation, 'Morayo' lands and Big Wiz takes us on a journey that's both personal and universally relatable, blending grief with grooves that make you move.
Here are my top 10 tracks that define this remarkable album:
Troubled Mind
The album kicks off with "Troubled Mind," arguably Wizkid's most profound intro yet. It starts with an eulogy from Fuji legend K1 De Ultimate, honoring Wizkid and acknowledging his loss. As the beat drops, you can literally hear the pain in Wizkid's voice when he sings, "Yeah, one shot for mama / yeah, I miss you." P2J's exquisite production sets the tone, making this a powerful opening that grips the listener from the outset.
Kese
If you're looking for a certified gbedu, "Kese" is it. This track is an instant club anthem, with Wizkid's impeccable flow and energy driving it home. He confidently declares, "Cause anything I drop, them go chop Aje" reminding us why he's the king of making people move. With Kese, you would definitely gbese!
Bad Girl (feat. Asake)
When Big Wiz and Mr. Money link up, you already know what’s up. Following their earlier chart-topping collaboration "MMS," "Bad Girl" continues the momentum. "Bad Girl" is a banger tailored for the girlies. Wizkid's poetic flair shines with lines like "This kele na my kind meat," Afropoetry, and the synergy with Asake is undeniable. It's the kind of track that tears up dance floors and keeps the vibes on 100. La-do-mi-re-mi-re-do.
Time
"Time" brings back the smooth, laid-back R&B vibes reminiscent of Wizkid's Made in Lagos era. Over mellow beats masterfully produced by P2J, Wizkid serenades with a simplicity that's profoundly effective. This is Wizkid in his element, cruising effortlessly and reminding listeners of his ability to convey deep emotion with subtlety.
Break Me Down
Still in R&B territory, "Break Me Down" showcases Wizkid's versatility. His flow is silky, the melody captivating, and the lyrics explore vulnerability. It's a classic R&B vibe that highlights his ability to transcend genres while keeping his signature touch intact.
Bend
"Bend" is all about fun and vibes. An instant club anthem for the ladies, this song is catchy with its repetitive hook that just sticks. While it might not break new ground, it's undeniably a feel-good track that gets the party started.
A Million Blessings
Here, a more introspective side of Wizkid emerges. "A Million Blessings" sees him reflecting on his journey, expressing gratitude for his successes and the lessons learned. He doesn't shy away from acknowledging his blessings—"Blessings dey fall like water for my head"—and uses the opportunity to address his competition: "The competition, omo, where you dey? I stand plaster every day." It's a subtle assertion that while he may be laid-back, he's always ready to define and defend his legacy.
Après Minuit (feat. Tiakola)
Crossing international borders, "Après Minuit" is a gem. Featuring French artist Tiakola, this track is sensual, romantic, and poetic. Wizkid effortlessly blends English and French, showcasing his global appeal. It's smooth and captivating—a standout on the album.
Slow (feat. Anaïs Cardot)
Arguably the best song on the album, "Slow" features the enchanting vocals of Anaïs Cardot. Wizkid muses, "We no fit pay for time while we come dey rush," encapsulating his ethos of living life at his own pace. It's a lo-fi sweet treat that sees Wizkid asserting dominance with his vocals.
Pray
"Pray" is the perfect bookend to the album. Wizkid reflects on his journey and his mother's influence, singing, "I know my mama pray for me, and I know the heavens dey for me." This moment of vulnerability is brief but powerful, reminding us that beneath the superstar persona lies a son who recently lost his mother.
Final Thoughts
On 'Morayo', Wizkid stays true to himself—choosing celebration over sorrow, vibes over melancholy. Unlike its predecessor More Love, Less Ego, we see a more energetic Wizkid on this album and a bit more diversity with different sounds. He's the maestro, cruising comfortably across genres and reaffirming his position at the forefront of Afrobeats.
This album arrives at a pivotal moment, contributing to the Afrobeats reset that has been unfolding, especially following Rema's release of HEIS earlier this year. "Morayo" captures the essence of dancing through pain, blending heartache with harmony, and ultimately celebrating life amidst loss.
Rating: 4/5
