With “REAL, Vol. 1”, Wizkid and Asake are poised to redefine collaboration and raise the bar for the Nigerian music industry.
“REAL Vol. 1” feels like a defining moment for Afrobeats. Wizkid and Asake’s collaborative EP challenges the current trend in the genre, where foreign collaborations have often been pursued, highlighted, and celebrated over homegrown partnerships. This project reflects a willingness to return to our culture and our stories as the source of inspiration driving the genre. It signals a shift toward deeper artistic unity, proving that Afrobeats can continue to evolve through intentional collaboration without losing its core identity.
By bringing their individual strengths into a shared vision, Wizkid and Asake set a new standard for what Nigerian music can look like. “REAL Vol. 1” is refreshing and forward-thinking, showing how creative risk and mutual respect can push the sound forward. The project represents progress, one that expands the possibilities of Afrobeats and points toward a future built on longevity, cohesion, and a willingness to create a lasting impact.
Collaboration is the future of Nigerian music
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When Asake’s first album, “Mr.Money With The Vibe,” dropped in 2022, it immediately captured people’s hearts. Songs like “Joha”, “Terminator”, “Organize” and “Sungba” reached global audiences, propelling him into instant stardom. Though there was scepticism about his longevity in the industry — that he would fade out like many Nigerian acts who leave behind only a track or two. Asake proved himself, his next two albums, “Work of Art” and “Lungu Boy,” cemented his position as one of the finest talents to emerge from the country. This project also featured his first collaboration with Wizkid, “MMS,” from the “Lungu Boy” album.
Wizkid has long been recognised as one of Africa’s most influential and celebrated artists. He made history as the first Nigerian artist to appear on the Billboard Hot 100 with Drake’s “One Dance,” which reached number one and became one of the most-streamed songs of all time. He has also won a Grammy Award, multiple BET Awards, and headlined major global stages, including London’s O2 Arena multiple times. His album “Made in Lagos” further established his legacy, producing globally successful records like “Essence,” featuring Tems became the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. Over the holiday season, his collaboration with rising star Mavo, alongside DJ Tunez and DJ Maphorisa, on “Money Constant” became an instant hit — trending online and dominating every Detty December playlist and event.
At this point, both Wizkid and Asake stand as giants in their own right, each commanding massive audiences and shaping Afrobeats. That two artists of this stature would choose collaboration over competition speaks volumes. It highlights the importance of unity among top-tier acts, reinforcing the idea that Afrobeats grows strongest when its biggest voices come together, not out of necessity, but out of a vision for the future.
Inside the “REAL Vo1. 1” EP
The four-song EP arrives with a level of ease and confidence that only artists of Wizkid and Asake’s calibre can pull off. “REAL Vol. 1” sounds intentional and unrushed, free from the pressure to chase trends or manufacture hits. True to its title, the project feels authentic, built on chemistry, trust, and a shared understanding of their sound. My favourite tracks are “Turbulence” and “Alaye,” which stand out for their mid-tempo mood and depth. On “Turbulence”, they speak about the difficulties of navigating fame and moving through a complicated industry. Lyrics like “I no Dey find wetin no concern me” remind listeners to focus on their path and to block out what isn’t for them.
Track 3 “Iskolodo” taps into pure energy, crafted for movement and late-night dance floors. The previously released single “Jogodo” fits seamlessly into the project, setting the tone and proving the duo’s synergy long before the full EP dropped.
What makes the project especially compelling is how natural it feels. The EP sounds like two artists allowing the music to breathe. The balance between them is what keeps listeners coming back and already calling for a Vol. 2. Rather than feeling like a one-off moment, “REAL Vol.1” sets the tone for the future of collaboration between Nigerian artists. Two Yoruba artists, vibing on a project and making music that reflects who they are, provide the kind of grounding Afrobeats has long needed — a reminder that our music should always mirror our spirits.
A blueprint for the future of Afrobeats
“REAL Vol. 1” EP reminds us of Afrobeats’ potential when collaboration stems from respect and artistic freedom. This isn’t just a successful collaboration — it’s a blueprint, demonstrating how authentic partnerships between artists can elevate the genre and inspire music that reveals a deeper connection to our stories.
