Joeboy is back with a hot new single, “Contour,” marking another high note for the Nigerian singer.
We caught up with the Headie award-winning star in an exclusive iMullar chat, talking about the Tempoe-produced track, his soulful sound, and how “Contour” explores the nonlinear nature of relationships.
A contour is something that’s not straightforward,” Joeboy said. “This song deals with the contour of a relationship. It’s a heartbreak song but a ‘feelgood’ heartbreak song.
“Contour” features an infectious and danceable bluesy guitar riff by the talented Kemena, emphasizing Joeboy’s affinity for strings, which longtime fans of his music will appreciate. The new single is the latest successful collaboration between Joeboy and Tempoe, after smash hit “Sip (Alcohol)”, and a popular remix of CKay’s massive “Love, Nwantiti”.
Since Joeboy took the African music scene by storm with “Baby” in 2019, he has maintained his place at the top by staying authentic to his own sound.
I’m definitely aware,” Joeboy said, of how the African music industry moves and changes. “But I’m just focused on doing what I want to do. I’m focused on my journey and my process.
Despite gaining popularity at a time when there was no shortage of talented Nigerian singers, Joeboy has managed to forge his own path – creating his own world with fans, and exploring and experimenting with sounds that stir his soul. In fact, he describes his current sound as soulful and promises a sophomore body of work in 2022 that expands on his growth as an artist.
It’s definitely a beautiful album,” Joeboy said, “it’s more personalized, more musical, and there’s a bit of edginess to it. Some things that people won’t actually believe that I would say, but I can’t wait for them to hear.
Joeboy’s debut album, “Somewhere Between Beauty and Magic” was widely heralded as one of the best releases from Nigeria in 2021. The project featured several hit singles, including “Focus,” “Lonely,” and “Door”, which has a stellar remix featuring Ghanaian rapper Kwesi Arthur.
Speaking of Kwesi Arthur, Joeboy told us the rapper is one of his all-time favourite Ghanaian artists. In no particular order, his Ghana top 5 also includes Black Sherif, Amaarae, King Promise, and Gyakie.
