Wizkid “Made In Lagos” Album Review

Made In Lagos

Wizkid

• Genre: Worldwide
• Date: 29 Oct, 2020
• Content: explicit
• Region: NGA
• Track(s): 14
• ℗ 2020 Starboy Entertainment Ltd., under exclusive license to RCA Records

Wizkid’s blockbuster fourth album, “Made In Lagos,” was released on October 30, 2020. This groundbreaking album is a fine blend of Afrobeat with samples, Hip-hop, R&B, Jazz Dancehall, and Caribbean Calypso. They come together in a way that is both cool to the mind and pleasant to the ears. “Made In Lagos” is more than just the name of an album; it’s also a declaration and a movement.

This record played a significant role in the new Afrobeat craze sweeping the world. The album, therefore, has a conceptual meaning. Lagos is to Africa what New York and London are to the United States and the United Kingdom, respectively. On this album, Wizkid has sonically captured the fundamental melodies of Africa and beyond.

The 14-track album has appearances from artists, including Burna Boy, Terri, Tems, Ella Mai, H.E.R., Skepta, and Damian Marley. The typical Nigerian fan may not consider this album a success because it lacks the high-tempo sounds and dance-like feel that Wizkid is known for, but if you are willing to acknowledge that people evolve, you will realize why this album deserves respect.

Album Cover Art

A very chill Wiz dons a grey top tucked into equally grey plain trousers sewn with style and class. He sports simple iced-out chains on his neck while showing off his pricey timepiece and an iced-out pinkie ring that puts his roots on display as that gifted kid Made In Lagos.

Tracks and Features

“Reckless” introduces Made In Lagos and establishes the mood for the remainder of the album with its silky bass and assertive saxophone. Wizkid muses on his privilege and the necessity of not taking such gifts for granted while talking about his doubt in his career and those who “pray for his downfall” in the song.

“Ginger” by Wizkid and Burna Boy, released five years after their previous joint effort, does not disappoint and serves as a reminder of why the two are among the most prominent artists in Nigeria. I’m hoping it won’t be another five years until we see these two collaborate again because of the pitch change in the 30-second outro, which raises the singles’ level even higher.

Warm guitar riffs set the tone for the song “Piece Of Me,” which fits the project’s laid-back vibe while still having a little pop flair. Ella Mai asks her love partner to “come and get a piece” in the repeating chorus, and the result is a catchy melody that will probably be well-liked in both the mainstream and R&B genres.

Then there is “Smile” with H.E. R. It’s a record that blends Dancehall, R&B, and Calypso, and the sound and style of both artists work well together. What lovely chemistry they have, which now makes sense given that the majority of the album’s sound leans in this direction, like in the case of “Sweet One,” a song that is tranquil and laid-back with lots of saxophones and enticing lyrics meant to send a female off to a lovers paradise. For the record, Wizkid performed admirably on his own, just as on the songs with features.

Skepta began the song “Long Time” with a rap. Fans anticipated that the two artists’ next collaboration would rival “Bad Energy” in appeal, but sadly, it fell short. On this album, Wizkid worked with more women than he has in his entire career. One of them is Tems. The song’s “Essence” title reflects how strongly she and Wiz bonded. Like other female collaborations, their on-track chemistry is distinctive. The two were able to flow and produce an upbeat sensation thanks to the combination of Afrobeat, Hip-hop, and Pop.

“True Love” combines Calypso, Afrobeat, and dance hall rhythms. With Tay Iwar and Projexx. A seductive, soothing song with x-rated lyrics and patois that professes love. “Grace,” the project’s closing track, has Wizkid emphasizing that despite hurdles, he will continue to run his race.

Tracklist / Songs

NO	TITLE
1	Reckless
2	Ginger (feat. Burna Boy)
3	Longtime (feat. Skepta)
4	Mighty Wine
5	Blessed (feat. Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley)
6	Smile (feat. H.E.R.)
7	Piece of Me (feat. Ella Mai)
8	No Stress
9	True Love (feat. Tay Iwar & Projexx)
10	Sweet One
11	Essence (feat. Tems)
12	Roma (feat. Terri)
13	Gyrate
14	Grace

Album Theme

With the help of “Made In Lagos,” Wizkid chronicled personal issues and good experiences in a sophisticated and composed way.

Production Credits

Blaq Jerzee, Juls, Kill September, Kofo, Legendury Beatz, London, P2J, SAINT MINO, Sammy Soso & Sarz produced the album.

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