Afrobeats megastar Wizkid continues to assert his dominance in the global music landscape with his fifth studio album, Morayo. The album’s 16 tracks take listeners on a deeply personal journey, blending Afrobeat, R&B, and soul to create a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, Jane Dolapo Balogun, who passed away in 2023. This project is more than just music; it’s an intimate reflection of Wizkid’s life, artistic growth, and ability to craft stories that resonate globally.
Track-by-Track Breakdown
- Troubled Mind
Opening with “Troubled Mind,” Wizkid sets a contemplative tone. The track explores themes of mental strain and introspection, layered over a minimalist Afrobeat rhythm. His delivery is vulnerable, inviting listeners into his emotional world. - Karamo
A lighter track, “Karamo“ (translated as “joyful” in Yoruba), brings celebratory vibes. The upbeat tempo and infectious melodies feel like a nod to the happiness he still cherishes amidst grief. - Kese (Dance)
This single, released ahead of the album, is a dance floor anthem. Its pulsating beats and catchy hook make it a quintessential Afrobeat track, showcasing Wizkid’s knack for blending rhythm with simplicity. - Bad Girl (featuring Asake)
In this collaboration with Asake, the fusion of their distinct styles creates magic. The track boasts an engaging call-and-response dynamic, with Asake’s energetic delivery complementing Wizkid’s smoother tones. The song balances flirtation with bold beats. - Time
“Time” is reflective and poignant, focusing on life’s fleeting nature. Wizkid’s lyrical depth shines, supported by a lush, laid-back instrumental arrangement that amplifies the emotional weight. - Piece of My Heart (featuring Brent Faiyaz)
This collaboration with Brent Faiyaz is a standout moment on the album. The fusion of Afrobeat and R&B creates a transcendent atmosphere, with the two artists exchanging heartfelt lyrics over a smooth production. - Break Me Down
A self-reflective anthem, “Break Me Down” explores resilience in the face of adversity. Wizkid’s emotive delivery, paired with the track’s driving rhythm, makes it both relatable and empowering. - Bend
With “Bend,” Wizkid steps into playful territory. The song is a sultry Afrobeat number, blending flirtation with pulsating basslines, showcasing his versatility. - A Million Blessings
Optimistic and uplifting, “A Million Blessings” is a gratitude-filled anthem. Its vibrant production mirrors the message of abundance and joy, providing a much-needed balance to the album’s heavier themes. - Après Minuit (featuring Tiakola)
Tiakola brings a French Afro-pop influence to “Après Minuit” (After Midnight). The collaboration feels like a cross-cultural celebration, with the duo harmonizing seamlessly over a mid-tempo beat. - Bad For You (featuring Jazmine Sullivan)
Jazmine Sullivan’s rich vocals elevate “Bad For You” into a soulful exploration of toxic love. The synergy between her powerful delivery and Wizkid’s understated approach creates a beautifully haunting track. - Soji
“Soji” is a motivational anthem urging listeners to stay alert and ready for opportunities. The vibrant percussion and clever wordplay highlight Wizkid’s skill in creating songs with universal appeal. - Don’t Care
At just over two minutes, “Don’t Care” is a concise declaration of self-assurance. Its stripped-back production lets Wizkid’s voice take center stage, delivering a powerful message of individuality. - Slow (featuring Anaïs Cardot)
This duet with Anaïs Cardot is a slow-burning ballad, blending Afrobeat with French chanson. The chemistry between their voices creates a romantic, ethereal atmosphere that lingers long after the song ends. - Lose
Short and sweet, “Lose” captures the pain of loss with minimalist instrumentation. Wizkid’s voice conveys raw emotion, making it one of the album’s most impactful tracks. - Pray
Closing with “Pray,” Wizkid ends the album on a hopeful note. The track is a spiritual homage, blending traditional Afrobeat percussion with gospel-like harmonies. It serves as a heartfelt conclusion, tying together the themes of love, faith, and resilience.
Themes and Production
The album’s overarching theme is clear: Morayo is a deeply personal exploration of love, legacy, and healing. Wizkid deftly balances moments of introspection with tracks that celebrate life and connection. The diverse range of collaborators enhances this narrative, bringing in international influences while staying rooted in Afrobeat.
Production-wise, Morayo strikes a fine balance between traditional Afrobeat rhythms and contemporary global sounds. Producers such as P2J, Juls, and Kel-P ensure that each track feels cohesive yet distinct, highlighting Wizkid’s ability to navigate multiple genres effortlessly.
Highlights and Standout Moments
The Brent Faiyaz-assisted “Piece of My Heart” and Jazmine Sullivan’s feature on “Bad For You” stand out as the album’s most ambitious tracks. These collaborations push Wizkid’s sound into new territory while maintaining his Afrobeat roots. “Pray” serves as an emotional anchor, bringing the album full circle.
With Morayo, Wizkid solidifies his status as a global ambassador for Afrobeat. The album is a testament to his growth as an artist and a person, showcasing his ability to blend deeply personal storytelling with sounds that resonate worldwide. Whether you’re drawn to his soulful ballads, infectious dance tracks, or thought-provoking lyrics, Morayo offers something for everyone. This project not only honors his late mother but also cements his legacy in the pantheon of Afrobeat greats.
