Introduction
Ahmed Ololade, professionally known
as Asake, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer who has become a
global sensation in the Afrobeats scene. Born on January 13, 1995, in Lagos,
Nigeria, Asake’s journey from a theatre arts student to a chart-topping artist
is a story of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride. His unique Afrofusion
sound, blending Afrobeats, Amapiano, Fuji, and street pop, has redefined
contemporary African music and captivated audiences worldwide.
Asake’s musical odyssey began in his
formative years, influenced by the vibrant cultural landscape of Lagos and his
Yoruba heritage. While studying Theatre and Dramatic Arts at Obafemi Awolowo
University, he honed his performance skills, initially exploring dance and
acting before fully embracing music. His early career included freestyles and
backup vocals for comedian Broda Shaggi, laying the foundation for his
distinctive style. In 2020, his freestyle “Lady” went viral on social media,
marking his breakthrough and catching the attention of Nigerian music icon
Olamide, who signed him to YBNL Records in February 2022. This pivotal moment
propelled Asake to stardom, with his debut EP, Ololade Asake, and hit
singles like “Omo Ope” and “Sungba” dominating charts.
His debut album, Mr. Money with
the Vibe (2022), broke records as the biggest opening day for an African
album on Apple Music and debuted at number 66 on the Billboard 200. Subsequent
albums, Work of Art (2023) and Lungu Boy (2024), solidified his
global influence, featuring collaborations with artists like Wizkid and Travis
Scott. In 2025, Asake launched his independent label, Giran Republic, marking a
new chapter in his career. His journey, marked by sold-out shows at venues like
London’s O2 Arena and a Grammy nomination, reflects his dedication to blending
Yoruba culture with modern sounds, making him a trailblazer in Afrobeats.
The Role of Yoruba Language in
Asake’s Lyrics
Cultural Authenticity and Identity
Asake’s predominant use of Yoruba in
his lyrics is a deliberate choice that reflects his commitment to cultural
authenticity. In interviews, he has emphasized that Yoruba is integral to his
identity, stating, “I am more comfortable singing in Yoruba, it’s not that I
can’t sing in English... If you fvck with me, fvck with me with my Yoruba. If
not, then don’t”. This stance underscores his dedication to showcasing his
roots, aligning with a broader movement among Nigerian artists to celebrate
indigenous languages in a globalized music industry. Yoruba, one of Nigeria’s
major languages, is known for its tonal quality and poetic expressions, which
Asake masterfully incorporates to infuse his music with cultural depth.
In tracks like “Organize” from his
album Mr. Money with the Vibe, Asake uses Yoruba to weave narratives
that resonate with cultural and historical significance. For instance, the
alliteration “o gbọ́n gbọ́n … gbọ́n gbọ́n” in “Organize” not only highlights
the rhythmic versatility of Yoruba but also serves as a commentary on the
intelligence (“Ọgbọ́n”) of the Yoruba people and the consequences of misusing
it, such as trading cultural heritage for minimal gain. This lyrical choice
reflects a critique of cultural commodification, connecting modern Yoruba
identity to historical narratives like the fall of the Ọ̀yọ́ Empire
(1500–1837). By embedding such themes, Asake positions Yoruba as a vehicle for
cultural storytelling, preserving and promoting Yoruba heritage on a global
stage.
Emotional Resonance and Transcending
Language Barriers
Asake’s use of Yoruba transcends
mere linguistic communication, emphasizing the emotional and universal appeal of
music. He has articulated that “music is like a feeling. Sometimes you don’t
even need to understand it”. This perspective is evident in his ability to
connect with diverse audiences, as demonstrated by the global success of his
Yoruba-heavy track “Amapiano,” which earned a nomination for the Best African
Music Performance at the 66th Grammy Awards. The song’s infectious melodies and
Yoruba lyrics resonate with listeners regardless of their linguistic
background, highlighting music’s ability to evoke emotions beyond words.
The tonal nature of Yoruba enhances
this emotional resonance. As a tonal language, Yoruba uses pitch variations to
distinguish meaning, which aligns seamlessly with the melodic structures of
Asake’s Afrofusion style. For example, in “Mr. Money,” the repetition of
phrases like “Hmm hmm hmm hmm” and “Kilẹ to mọ” creates a rhythmic and melodic
flow that amplifies the song’s emotional impact. These phonological choices,
combined with Yoruba’s poetic cadence, allow Asake to craft lyrics that are
both musically compelling and emotionally evocative, making his music
accessible to a global audience despite the language barrier.
Phonological Artistry and Linguistic
Versatility
Asake’s lyrics demonstrate a
sophisticated use of phonological elements, which are central to his artistic
expression. A phonographological analysis of his work, particularly in Mr.
Money with the Vibe, reveals his strategic use of end rhymes, alliteration,
and repetition to enhance the rhythmic and melodic dimensions of his music. For
instance, in “Mr Money,” the chorus features end rhymes like “2:30 fẹlu” and
“Oya ka turn up,” which create a cohesive rhythmic pattern. Similarly,
alliterative phrases such as “Mo da aso-ẹbi for my country” employ repeated
sounds (“d” and “s”) to add a lyrical texture that complements the instrumental
arrangement.
Yoruba’s inherent rhythmic qualities
are further exploited in Asake’s work to create a seamless blend of colloquial
and formal linguistic elements. His lyrics often incorporate Yoruba proverbs
and idioms, blending traditional wisdom with contemporary themes. This
linguistic versatility allows Asake to appeal to both native Yoruba speakers
and a broader audience, as the proverbs carry universal truths while
maintaining cultural specificity. For example, his reference to Yoruba deities
like Sàngó, Ọ̀sun, Yemọja, and Ẹlẹ́gúāá in “Organize” uses color symbolism and
cultural imagery to pay homage to Yoruba mythology, enriching the lyrical
content with layers of meaning that resonate with those familiar with the
culture.
Socio-Cultural Commentary and Global
Impact
Asake’s use of Yoruba also serves as
a platform for socio-cultural commentary, addressing issues like cultural
erosion and identity in a globalized world. In “Organize,” the visual and
lyrical elements critique the trading of Yoruba cultural artifacts, symbolized
by a masked thief selling an ancient art piece, which reflects the broader
exploitation of African heritage. The use of Yoruba in this context amplifies
the critique, as the language itself becomes a symbol of resistance against
cultural commodification. By singing predominantly in Yoruba, Asake challenges
the dominance of English in global music markets, asserting the validity and
richness of indigenous languages.
This approach has contributed to
Asake’s international acclaim, as his music resonates with the African diaspora
and global audiences seeking authentic cultural expressions. His albums,
including Mr. Money with the Vibe (2022), Work of Art (2023), and
Lungu Boy (2024), consistently feature Yoruba lyrics, yet have achieved
widespread popularity, demonstrating that linguistic authenticity can coexist
with global appeal. His collaborations with international artists and
performances at global venues, such as the sold-out O2 Brixton in London,
further underscore the universal appeal of his Yoruba-infused music.
Yoruba Language and Its Global
Influence
The Demographic Reach
Yoruba is spoken by over 40 million
people, primarily in Southwestern, Nigeria (Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti, Osun
and parts of Kwara and Kogi States) and parts of Benin and Togo. It is one of
Nigeria’s major languages, alongside Hausa and Igbo. The languages have a
standardized form, based on the Oyo dialect, used in education, media and
literature, which has helped its spread and preservation.
The Diaspora and Transatlantic
Influence
The
Transatlantic slave trade (16th-19th centuries) brought
Yoruba people and their language to the Americas particularly Brazil, Cuba,
Trinidad, and the United States. This diaspora led to the integration of Yoruba
linguistic and cultural elements into New World societies. In Brazil, Yoruba (locally
called Nago or Lukumi) influenced by the Candomblé religion, with Yoruba words and
phrases preserved in rituals, songs, and oral traditions. For example, terms
like orisá (deity) and axé (spiritual energy) are widely used.
The Santería adherent in Cuba incorporates Yoruba language in chants, prayers,
and names of deities e.g. Orunmila and Shango. Yoruba linguistic elements are
also evident in Afro-Cuban music genres like salsa and batá drumming. Also, in
the United States, Yoruba language and culture influence African-American
religious practices, such as the Oyotunji Village in South Carolina, where
Yoruba is taught and used in rituals.
The Cultural and Artistic
Contributions
Yoruba
literature, both oral and written, has gained global recognition. Oral
traditions like Oriki (praise
poetry), ese ifa (divination verses),
and folktales have inspired global literary and performance arts.
Written Yoruba literature, pioneered
by figures like D.O. Fagunwa (Ogboju Ode
ninu Igbo Irunmole) and Amos Tutuola (The Palm-Wine Drinkard), has been
translated into English and other languages, influencing world literature.
Yoruba music, including genres like juju and Fuji, incorporates Yoruba lyrics and has a global following, with
artists like King Sunny Adé and Fela Kuti (whose Afrobeat draws partly from
Yoruba rhythms) achieving international fame.
Yoruba visual arts, such as
sculpture and beadwork, often tied to spiritual practices, are celebrated in
global museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the British Museum.
The Religious and Philosophical
Impact
The
Yoruba religion, centered on the worship of orisas
(deities), has spread globally, influencing African diasporic religions like
Santería, Candomblé, and Umbanda. Yoruba terms and concepts, such as Ifá (divination system), are integral to
these practices. The Ifá corpus, a
vast body of oral literature, is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural
Heritage, highlighting its global philosophical significance.
The Academic and Linguistic Influence
Yoruba
is studied in universities worldwide, including in the United States (e.g.,
Harvard, Yale), the UK, and Brazil, often as part of African language and
diaspora studies programs. The language’s tonal nature and complex grammar have
attracted linguistic research, contributing to studies in phonology,
morphology, and syntax. Also, Yoruba’s orthography, developed by Samuel Ajayi
Crowther in the 19th century, is a model for standardizing African languages.
The Contemporary and Its Challenges
Currently, Yoruba is prominent in
Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry, with many films produced in Yoruba, gaining
viewership across Africa and the diaspora via platforms like YouTube and
Netflix. The people propagate Yoruba content across different media apps with
users sharing proverbs, poetry, and cultural discussions, amplifying its global
reach and in efforts to digitize Yoruba, including online dictionaries (e.g.,
YorubaName.com) and language apps, have made it accessible to learners
worldwide. Despite its influence, Yoruba faces challenges like language shift
among younger generations in urban areas and the diaspora, where English or
other dominant languages are prioritized.
Thematic Elements in Asake’s
Upcoming Album
Being the Afrobeats sensation, Asake
announced his fourth studio album, Money, on June 5, 2026 via his X (formerly
known Twitter) account, sparking significant anticipation among fans. The
thematic elements of this upcoming album can be inferred from Asake’s musical
trajectory, his recent singles, public statements, and the cultural context of
his work.
Ambition and Material Wealth
The album’s title, Money, explicitly ties into Asake’s
nickname, “Mr. Money,” which has been a cornerstone of his brand since his
debut album, Mr. Money With The Vibe
(2022). This suggests a thematic focus on ambition, financial success, and the
pursuit of wealth, which are recurring motifs in Afrobeats. A teaser image
shared with the announcement, featuring “shimmering gold motifs” and the phrase
“Everything cost, everything na Money,” points to a narrative that explores the
value and cost of success, both materially and emotionally. This theme aligns
with Asake’s previous work, where he blends aspirational lyrics with cultural
commentary, as seen in hits like “Sungba” and “PBUY” from his debut album. The
emphasis on wealth may reflect the hustle culture prevalent in Nigeria, but it
could also critique the societal obsession with money, a duality Asake has
subtly navigated in tracks like “Lonely at the Top” from Work of Art (2023), which reflects on the isolation that
accompanies success.
Love and Emotional Vulnerability
Asake’s recent single, “Why Love”
(released February 2025), offers a glimpse into the emotional terrain Money might explore. Described as a
“sizzling fusion” of Afrobeats and Amapiano with “raw vocals” and lyrics about
“the complexities of love, connection, and living in the moment,” the track
suggests that love—romantic, situational, or fleeting—will be a significant
theme. The music video for “Why Love” emphasizes carefree enjoyment and
connection, featuring Asake and model India Love Westbrooks in luxurious yet
relatable settings. This indicates a continuation of Asake’s ability to weave
emotional vulnerability into his upbeat sound, as seen in tracks like
“Amapiano” from Work of Art. The
single’s focus on “navigating relationships, situationships, or simply enjoying
life” suggests Money may explore love
as a counterbalance to material ambition, possibly examining the tension
between emotional fulfillment and financial success.
Cultural Hybridity and Genre
Experimentation
Asake’s previous album, Lungu Boy (2024), was praised for its
“expansive, experimental palette,” featuring collaborations with global artists
like Wizkid, Travis Scott, and Stormzy, and blending Afrobeats with Fuji,
street pop, and Amapiano. The announcement of *Money* hints at a continuation
of this genre-bending approach, with rumors of collaborations with local
artists like Olamide and Fireboy DML, as well as potential international
crossovers. The single “Why Love” already showcases Amapiano influences, and
his recent collaboration with Tiakola on “BADMAN GANGSTA” signals a “bold
evolution” in his sound, incorporating global musical elements. This suggests
*Money* will further explore cultural hybridity, reflecting Asake’s Yoruba
roots while engaging with global music trends. His use of Yoruba-infused lyrics
and spiritual undertones, as noted in previous works, may also anchor the
album’s identity in Nigerian cultural narratives while appealing to a global
audience.
Spiritual and Philosophical
Introspection
Asake’s music often incorporates
spiritual undertones, drawing from Fuji music’s reflective and philosophical
traditions. Tracks like “Yoga” from Work
of Art and “Lonely at the Top” showcase his ability to infuse spiritual and
existential themes into his work. The teaser for Money suggests a potential focus on the “price of fame,” which
could lead to introspective explorations of success’s personal and spiritual
costs. Asake’s move to his independent label, Giran Republic, in 2025, and his
recent aesthetic changes (e.g., full-body tattoos and a “military mindset”
post-Grammy) indicate a deeper personal transformation that may manifest in the
album’s themes. This could involve reflections on identity, purpose, and the
sacrifices required for success, aligning with his history of delivering
“spiritually introspective anthems.”
Independence and Creative Control
The
establishment of Giran Republic marks a significant shift for Asake, as Money will be his first album under this
independent label. This move suggests a theme of artistic freedom and
self-determination, potentially reflected in the album’s content and production
choices. The success of “Why Love,” released under Giran Republic, and Asake’s
expansion into fashion with his unisex clothing line, GIRAN, indicate a broader
vision of creative control. The album may explore themes of breaking free from
industry constraints, a narrative that resonates with his departure from YBNL
Nation and his bold stylistic choices in 2025.
Asake’s Impact on Afrobeats and
Global Music Trends
Asake has emerged as a
transformative force in Afrobeats, blending traditional Nigerian sounds with
global influences to create a unique, boundary-pushing style. His meteoric rise
since 2018 has not only redefined Afrobeats but also contributed significantly
to its global mainstream appeal.
Music Innovation and Genre Fusion
His
ability to merge these elements with global genres like soul, jazz, and R&B
has created a sound that is both deeply African and universally accessible. His
2022 debut album, Mr. Money With The Vibe, featuring hits like
“Organise,” “Sungba (Remix)” with Burna Boy, and “Terminator,” broke streaming
records and showcased his innovative approach. His 2025 single “Why Love?”
exemplifies this fusion, combining Fuji vibes with soulful saxophone and jazz
harmonies, creating an emotional and cross-cultural appeal.
His
music often incorporates Yoruba proverbs and call-and-response hooks, rooted in
Lagos street culture, which resonate with local audiences while appealing
globally due to their infectious rhythms and relatable narratives. This has
positioned Asake as a key figure in evolving Afrobeats into a genre that
transcends regional boundaries.
Global Reach and Cultural Exchange
Asake’s
performances have played a pivotal role in expanding Afrobeats’ global
footprint. His sold-out shows at venues like London’s O2 Arena (2023) and New
York’s Barclays Center (2023) demonstrate his ability to captivate diverse
audiences. His Boston concert at Agganis Arena in 2025, attended by over 7,000
fans, highlighted Afrobeats’ growing popularity in the U.S., fostering cultural
exchange between Nigeria and international audiences. These performances, often
accompanied by vibrant live bands and traditional Yoruba attire, bring Lagos
street energy to global stages, making them cultural experiences rather than
mere concerts.
Social
media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have amplified Asake’s reach, with
his songs inspiring viral dance challenges and trends. This organic engagement
has cemented Afrobeats’ place in global pop culture, particularly among Gen Z
and millennials, who drive digital trends. His music’s presence on editorial
playlists across Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube has further boosted his
global visibility, with tracks consistently breaking into charts like Spotify’s
Global Top 50 and the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs Chart, where he became the
first artist to secure 50 entries.
Shifting Afrobeats’s Sound and Identity
Asake’s
third album, Lungu Boy (2024), marked a shift toward a more global
sound, reducing Amapiano and Fuji elements in favor of influences palatable to
international audiences, such as his collaboration with French artist Tiakola
on “BADMAN GANSTA.” While this move sparked discussions about whether he is
prioritizing foreign audiences, his lyrics in Yoruba and references to Nigerian
identity maintain a strong cultural tether. This evolution reflects a broader
trend in Afrobeats, where artists balance authenticity with global appeal,
navigating the tension between local roots and international aspirations.
Commercial and Cultural Influence
Asake’s
commercial success underscores Afrobeats’ growing economic power. His ability
to sell out major venues, coupled with brand partnerships and sync licensing
opportunities, highlights the genre’s marketability. His music videos, often
infused with Afrofuturist aesthetics and Nigerian cultural motifs like the
green-and-white color scheme of “Why Love?” serve as visual extensions of his
artistry, influencing global fashion and cultural trends. His launch of a
marijuana strain, Giran, in the U.S. further exemplifies his role in shaping
lifestyle-driven cultural movements.
Cultural Preservation Through Music
Asake,
a Nigerian Afrobeats artist whose music serves as a vibrant vehicle for
preserving and promoting Yoruba cultural heritage. His work seamlessly blends
traditional Yoruba elements with contemporary sounds, creating a unique
narrative that resonated globally while staying deeply rooted in his cultural
identity.
Incorporation of Yoruba Language and Proverbs
Asake’s
music is characterized by his deliberate use of the Yoruba language, proverbs,
and idiomatic expressions, which are central to preserving linguistic heritage.
By singing predominantly in Yoruba, he ensures the language remains vibrant and
accessible, especially to younger audiences. His lyrics often weave in Yoruba
proverbs, which carry cultural wisdom and moral lessons, making them relatable
to his Nigerian audience while educating global listeners. For instance, in his
track “Organize,” Asake uses the phrase “o
gbọ́n gbọ́n jù, o gbọ́n, à gbọ́n gbọ́n jù ọgbọ́n,” an alliteration that
showcases the rhythmic versatility of the Yoruba language. This phrase,
combined with the song’s narrative, reflects the cultural theme of wisdom “ọgbọ́n” and its potential pitfalls, a
nod to Yoruba philosophical teachings about balance and consequence.
Femi
Kuti, a Nigerian music legend, has praised Asake’s dedication to cultural
preservation through his use of Yoruba, noting that he is “doing something very
important for the Yoruba culture.” This linguistic focus not only preserves the
Yoruba language but also elevates its global presence, fostering cultural pride
among Yoruba-speaking communities.
Visual Storytelling and Historical References
Asake’s
music videos are rich with cultural symbolism, drawing on Yoruba history,
mythology, and aesthetics to tell stories that resonate with cultural significance.
His video for “Organize” is a prime example, narrating the fall of the Ọ̀yọ́
Empire (1500–1837) while showcasing Yoruba cultural uniqueness. The video
features a tribal-marked masked thief, symbolizing the trade of Yoruba art and
customs, and references the Ọ̀yọ́ Ìwàrẹ̀fà,
a historical council of wise men who maintained checks and balances in the
Yoruba kingdom.
Additionally,
Asake pays homage to Yoruba deities and historical figures. In the “Organize”
video, he dons a red outfit reminiscent of Aláàfin Sàngó, a revered Yoruba king
and deity, complete with Sàngó’s signature braided hairstyle. The use of colors
like golden yellow (symbolizing the goddess Ọ̀sun) and blue (representing
Yemọja, the goddess of the ocean) further ties his work to Yoruba spirituality
and cosmology. These visual elements serve as a bridge between past and
present, educating viewers about Yoruba heritage while keeping it relevant in
modern contexts.
Fusion of Traditional and Contemporary Sounds
Asake’s
music blends traditional Yoruba musical forms, such as Fuji, with modern
Afrobeats, Amapiano, and pop elements, creating a sound that appeals to global
audiences while preserving cultural roots. Fuji, a genre rooted in Yoruba
Islamic traditions, is a cornerstone of his sound, evident in tracks like
“Sungba” and “Joha.” This fusion ensures that traditional Yoruba music remains
relevant, introducing its rhythms and melodies to new generations and
international listeners. His debut album, *Mr. Money with the Vibe* (2022),
exemplifies this blend, breaking records as the biggest opening day for an
African album on Apple Music at the time. The album’s success highlights how
Asake’s culturally rich music can achieve global reach without diluting its
Yoruba essence.
Spiritual and Cultural Narratives
Asake’s
music often reflects his spiritual inclinations, incorporating themes from
Yoruba traditional religion, Christianity, and Islam. In his song “Yoga,” the
accompanying video features him practicing yoga, symbolizing mindfulness and a connection
to spiritual practices rooted in Yoruba culture. Tracks like “Dupe” and
“Blessings” blend religious references, showcasing the syncretism common in
Yoruba spirituality. This spiritual depth adds layers to his music, preserving
the Yoruba worldview that integrates the sacred and the secular.
Cultural Identity and Global Influence
Asake’s
rise reflects a broader cultural movement to elevate African identities on the
global stage. His music captures the “chaos, energy, and culture” of Lagos,
often likened to the frenetic experience of a Danfo bus ride, embedding Yoruba urban life into his sound. By
collaborating with artists like Tiakola, he engages in cultural
cross-pollination, introducing Yoruba elements to French and European audiences
while maintaining his linguistic and cultural authenticity.
His
sophomore album, *Work of Art* (2023), further explores themes of fame and
human experience through a Yoruba lens, drawing inspiration from figures like
Jean-Michel Basquiat to create a global yet culturally grounded narrative. This
balance of local authenticity and global appeal ensures that Yoruba culture is
not only preserved but also celebrated worldwide.
Community and Identity Formation
Asake’s
music emphasizes the role of community in shaping cultural identity. His
journey from performing at small Lagos shows to global stardom embodies the
collective spirit of Yoruba culture, where community support is vital. His
affiliation with YBNL Nation, under Olamide’s mentorship, underscores the
importance of cultural and communal networks in his success. By rooting his
music in Yoruba traditions, Asake fosters a sense of pride and belonging among
his audience, reinforcing cultural identity.
Fans
have consistently praised Asake for his unapologetic use of Yoruba, celebrating
his authenticity and commitment to showcasing his cultural roots. His single Military (2025) sparked significant
online discussions, with fans lauding his Yoruba lyricism as a bold statement
of identity. For instance, the lyric “Oyinbo
ko ro l’enu mi” (“English is not sweet in my mouth”) resonated strongly,
with fans appreciating his rejection of linguistic conformity in favor of
Yoruba. Similarly, his album Lungu Boy
(2024), particularly tracks like Fuji
Vibe, has been noted for its infectious quality, with fans feeling
compelled to engage with the music through dance even if they don’t fully
understand the Yoruba lyrics. Fans have also highlighted his honesty and
dedication to promoting Yoruba culture, especially after he addressed critics
during an Instagram Live session, emphasizing his comfort in singing in Yoruba.
His collaboration with J Hus on Gold
further amplified this praise, with fans on platforms like X (formerly known Twitter)
calling it a “meeting of kings” for its authentic representation of African
linguistic and cultural elements.
Critical Reception
Critics
have largely celebrated Asake’s Yoruba lyricism for its cultural significance
and artistic innovation. His debut album, Mr.
Money With The Vibe (2022), was critically acclaimed for blending
traditional Yoruba rhythms with modern Afrobeats, establishing him as a unique
voice in the industry. The track Organize
from this album was particularly noted for weaving complex narratives about the
historical Oyo Empire (1500–1837) into a pop culture framework, showcasing the
versatility and depth of Yoruba language and culture. Critics praised how
Asake’s use of Yoruba alliteration, such as “o gbọ́n gbọ́n jù,” added rhythmic and thematic richness,
communicating deeper messages about heritage and identity.
In
Military, critics highlighted Asake’s
defiant response to those who criticize his heavy use of Yoruba, noting that
his lyrics assert artistic autonomy and reject pressure to adopt English for
broader appeal. His Grammy-nominated track Amapiano
(2024), primarily sung in Yoruba, was cited as evidence that music transcends
language barriers, earning critical praise for its global resonance despite its
linguistic specificity. Critics have also commended Asake’s ability to fuse
Yoruba with Fuji, Afrobeat, and pop elements, creating a nostalgic yet
contemporary sound that appeals to both local and international audiences. However,
some critics have expressed concerns. For instance, while Military was praised for its boldness, some questioned whether
Asake’s boastful claims (e.g., being the richest among his peers) were artistic
hyperbole or factual, suggesting that such bravado might alienate some
listeners. Additionally, a few fans and critics have argued that Asake should
incorporate more English to reach a broader global audience, a suggestion he
has firmly rejected, prioritizing comfort and authenticity in Yoruba.
Conclusion
Asake’s
unrelenting commitment to Yoruba lyricism has cemented his legacy as a
trailblazer in globalising Yoruba culture through music. By weaving Yoruba
language, proverbs, and historical references into his Afrobeat, Fuji, and
pop-infused sound, he has brought Yoruba identity to the forefront of the
global music stage. His albums, Mr. Money With The Vibe (2022) and Lungu
Boy (2024), alongside hits like Amapiano and Military,
showcase his ability to craft universally resonant music while staying true to
his linguistic and cultural roots. This authenticity has earned him a Grammy
nomination and a devoted global fanbase, proving that Yoruba’s rhythmic and
narrative richness transcends linguistic barriers. His defiance of pressures to
prioritise English lyrics, as seen in tracks like Military with its
bold declaration “Oyinbo ko ro l’enu mi”
(“English is not sweet in my mouth”), underscores his role as a cultural
ambassador. His music not only celebrates Yoruba heritage but also challenges
the dominance of Western linguistic norms in global music, inspiring other
African artists to embrace their native languages. Collaborations with
international artists like J Hus on Gold further amplify Yoruba’s
global reach, blending African linguistic traditions with diasporic sounds.
Critically, Asake’s work has been lauded for its innovative fusion of Yoruba
alliteration, traditional rhythms, and modern production, creating a nostalgic
yet forward-thinking sound. While some critics argue for more English to
broaden accessibility, Asake’s success—evidenced by sold-out international
tours and widespread acclaim—demonstrates that cultural specificity can coexist
with global appeal. His legacy lies in proving that Yoruba, and by extension
African languages, can command global stages without compromise, paving the way
for future generations to proudly amplify their heritage through music.
Citations
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Asake Biography, Bio-Data, Early Life,
Interesting Career, Major Achievements, Personal Life, and 30 FAQs,
bsgistnews.com
Asake Biography, Early Life,
Career, Album, Songs, Girlfriend, Net Worth, www.gistreel.com.
Think
Yoruba First. 2023. Àsàkẹ́: The Lyrics, The Culture, The Renaissance and
Yorùbá.
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Research Consult. (n.d.). Full Project - The study of Asake’s selected songs -
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Tribune
Online. (n.d.). Why I sing in Yoruba — Asake.
TheCable
Lifestyle. 2023. Lyrics don’t always need to be understood, says Asake on
singing in Yoruba.
Falola, T., & Genova, A. (Eds.).
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(Discusses Yoruba cultural influence in Nigeria and the diaspora.)
Abimbola, W. 1976. Ifá: An
Exposition of Ifá Literary Corpus. Ibadan University Press. (Details the global
significance of Ifá divination and Yoruba philosophy.)
BBC News. 2019. “Yoruba: Nigeria’s
Language of Music and Culture.” Available at:
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-49613482 Accessed August 13, 2025.
Discusses Yoruba’s influence in music and film.
UNESCO. 2005. Ifa Divination
System. Intangible Cultural Heritage. Available at:
https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/ifa-divination-system-00146 Accessed August 13,
2025. Recognizes Ifá’s global cultural value.
Harvard University, Department of
African and African American Studies. (n.d.). Yoruba Language Program.
Available at: https://aaas.fas.harvard.edu/yoruba Accessed August 13, 2025.
Details Yoruba language courses offered globally.
https://dailytimesng.com/asake-announces-fourth-studio-album-money/
https://afrobeatsmagazine.com/asake-kicks-off-2025-with-sizzling-new-single-why-love/
Think Yoruba First, “Àsàkẹ́: The
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https://blog.thinkyorubafirst.org/p/asake-the-lyrics-the-culture-the-renaissance-and-yoruba-ebb1431a10c4
accessed on 15/08/2025
Pulse Nigeria, “Is Asake now making
music for a foreign audience?
https://www.pulse.ng/articles/entertainment/music/is-asake-now-making-music-for-a-foreign-audience-2025072511572296841
accessed on 14/08/2025
Urban Central, “Asake’s Work of Art:
Faith, Fame and Fuji.” https://urbancntrl.co/work-of-art-by-asake-album-review
accessed on 13/08/2025
https://www.talkaboutnigeria.com/2025/02/05/review-in-new-song-military-asake-pays-homage-to-ybnl-boss-olamide/
accessed on 14/08/2025
https://thediscovererng.com/as-asake-proves-the-global-dominance-of-yoruba-music-by-reno-omokori/
accessed on 13/08/2025
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