Review: Adekunle Gold’s AfroPop Vol 1

It’s been 5 years since my little sister put me on “Orente” by Adekunle Gold and looking back, AG’s come up is definitely one for the books. Adekunle Gold has many talents. He isn’t just a singer, he is also an accomplished graphic designer, who would then go on to design the logo for YBNL, the Nigerian music label powerhouse that had previously signed him.

Fast forward and AG has released his third album, is currently tackling the challenges and joys of parenthood all while married to Simi; who played a huge role in his emergence, mixing his break out 2014 song “Sade”. A family man, a musician and an all-round creative, AG has grounded himself as a force to be reckoned with.

On the 10 track tape, he experiments sonically on the project which altogether spans for 30 minutes. AG is a master when it comes to urban high life and Afro Pop Vol I is proof. Adekunle smoothly blends it with his signature body swaying Afro-fusion with a number of different genres like dancehall and RnB.

The first song “AG baby” is a solid track, on a Caribbean-Esque slow “dutty wine” production, orchestrated by Trinidadian singer Nailah Blackman, AG manages to bring the focus on his roots,  delivering melodic hooks that make the song a bit of sensual one. “Sabina” draws inspiration from the southern part of Africa, with a mix of Afrobeats and Pop, Seyi’s production blends in a bit of Gqom, an SA electric dance genre that emerged in the early 2010s. Allowing Adekunle’s buoyant vocals to express his level of regret on losing his lover on the record.

“Pretty Girl” is sure to be another fan favourite. Though it’s hard to believe that the song is AG’s first try at dancehall music, “Pretty Girl” showcases just how good Adekunle is at bending musical genres of his choice, creating a fun flirty summer bop in the process. With Patoranking spraying the song with his trademark sound and an infectious chorus, the song is set to stay on our airwaves for a bit. Did someone say a new TikTok anthem?

My personal favourite and peak Adekunle imprint, “Okay” is everything and more. Coordinated with thumping drums and carefully coupled with a high pitched Baritone, showing off the vocal dynamism in AG’s voice. With basic yet raw lines like “Na Craze you dey find, I get times 2”, AG’s details how far he’d go to protect his inner energy, giving us a chill yet relatable song with a message.

Per his interview with Apple Music, one of Adekunle’s goals with the new tape was reportedly making a record that “you can drive to during the summertime”. On the Diplo produced track “Here for Ya”, touched by Pheelz, who boosted the song with wind instruments AG does just that, blending the sounds of EDM and Afro beats together.

The features are pretty exciting, with everyone on the project playing their part to lift up a particular genre, but not to overshadow the others. “Exclusive” is an example of this genius, with Adekunle crooning on about a not too official relationship, whilst Olayinka Ehi colours the song with a unique alternative R&B sound. Another exciting joint is “Firewood” with Tekno, a pure Afrobeat tune that explores the feeling of free-falling in love.

The most chill song on the project and also a single off the project is “Something Different”. Like its name, the track displays exactly what makes Adekunle Gold something special. With a penchant for perfect hooks littered with back up melodies from Reekado Banks, the song is the perfect modern Nigerian love song. Of course, this is expected from AG Baby having one of the most inspiring love stories in the industry. It was inevitable that this singer was going to make a romantic wedding theme song. On “Water Carry Me”, AG’s lyricism is like a shard of clarity, reflecting on the depths of true love and bonds. The song produced by E Kelly breathes a fresh angle on AG’s usually highlife vibe, making it a jam that every wedding DJ should have on his drive.

On “My Ex” which sounds like it was written after some soul searching explores the emotions that come with drunk texting your ex then waking up with heavy regrets in the morning. The record is a mash of Alternative pop and R&B which perfectly accompanies Adekunle’s lyrics as he croons out loud “you know everything is fine when the whiskey is nice”.

To summarize, the first volume of Afro Pop is soft and somnolent, allowing Adekunle Gold’s feelings and thoughts to be heard all over in a variety of different ways. And yes, even though most artistes are blending genres right now, in my opinion, the gauntlet rests solely with AG. All that’s left is to patiently wait (in excitement) and hope that AG continues to bring his own flavour and style to other genres as he grows as a formidable musical talent.

Listen to Adekunle Gold’s Afro Pop, Vol I.