In 2020, Wizkid soared to global acclaim with Made in Lagos, a career defining masterpiece that set an almost insurmountable benchmark 11 years into his career. The 2022 follow up, More Love, Less Ego, while a solid effort, seemed overshadowed by the monumental success of its predecessor.  Now, in 2024, Wizkid returns with Morayo, an album steeped in personal significance, named after his late mother, who passed away in 2023.

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Morayo is released amid a year fraught with controversy, placing the star in the crosshairs of debates about his choice to distance himself from Afrobeats, a genre he helped catapult into global consciousness as well as reigniting long-standing rivalries. These moments, seemingly alien to the composed image he’s cultivated in recent years, may reflect the turmoil of navigating grief after the loss of his mother, a central figure in his life. The album channels this emotional complexity, blending introspection with resilience, offering a glimpse into an artiste reconciling public pressures with personal pain.

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This 16-track project kicks off with ‘Troubled Mind’ which features the vocals of the Nigerian Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde popularly known as K1 De Ultimate giving reverence to Wizkid at his mother’s funeral. This record opens a window into the singer's mind as he wrestles with loss. While it doesn’t plunge deeply into raw vulnerability, it presents a measured reflection of his emotional journey.

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From the infectious rhythms of ‘Karamo’ to the undeniable groove of pre-released single ‘Kese’, Morayo seamlessly entwines party anthems that reignite Wizkid’s celebrated artistry. Tracks like ‘Bad Girl’, featuring Asake, ‘Bend’, and ‘Soji’ channel a nostalgic soundscape reminiscent of his earlier hits. For fans questioning his ability to craft dancefloor records, Wizkid silences doubters with a masterclass in feel-good music. This is vintage Wizkid at his most confident, the sound that first captured ears and hearts.

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Wizkid’s signature blend of Afrobeats and R&B shines brightly on Morayo, with tracks like ‘Time’ and the Brent Faiyaz-assisted ‘Piece Of My Heart’ offering a nod to the Made in Lagos era. The latter evolves into a two-part masterpiece, with its second half pulsating with soothing melodies and thumping percussion. On ‘Break Me Down’, Wizkid effortlessly merges R&B, dancehall, and Afrobeats, his understated vocals gliding over lush production and bolstered backing vocals by female producer duo DAMEDAME.

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French act Tiakola and R&B veteran Jazmine Sullivan steal the show on ‘Après Minuit’ and ‘Bad For You’ respectively, delivering noteworthy performances. ‘A Million Blessings’ might just be the strongest record on the album, he reflects on his journey and success and he reaffirms his position as one of afrobeats’ greatest. Anaïs Cardots joins Wizkid on ‘Slow’ as they deliver a sultry soothing record, underpinned by a moody, atmospheric production. He reflects on his carefree way of life on ‘Don’t Care’ with profound songwriting. Morayo comes to an end on a strong note with ‘Lose’ and ‘Pray’ as we get a little more introspection from the singer.

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No matter which version of Wizkid resonates most with you, Morayo offers something to satisfy. While the album may lack a cohesive overarching theme, it compensates with standout tracks that explore the spectrum of human experience, touching on loss, love, ambition, and desire. Morayo serves as a testament to his ability to create music that moves both the heart and the body with irresistible rhythms, reaffirming his place as a maestro of modern soundscapes.

Unruly Rating: 8/10

Listen to Morayo Below: