Could the increasing prevalence of melancholy in street music establish it as Nigeria’s primary music genre?

The Nigerian street music scene undeniably carries a powerful wave of raw emotions. Although the overarching theme of this genre remains consistent, there’s a noticeable surge in the infusion of melancholy and heightened emotions, contributing to its evolving significance.
In essence, , Naija Music, with its sonic elements, presents itself as an art form designed for entertainment, much like mainstream Nigerian Pop records in the Afropop genre. Even when delving into themes of societal injustice and pain, as seen in songs like Timaya’s ‘True Story’ or African China’s ‘Mr President,’ there is a noticeable absence of palpable melancholy in the artist’s voice or melody. This lack of somberness is largely attributed to the overpowering influence of percussions and the confident, swaggering delivery that characterizes Nigerian street music.

As early as 2008, the late Street Hop star and indigenous rapper, Da Grin, delved into the reflective awareness of his own mortality with ‘If I Die.’ This particular track gained significant attention, especially after the artist’s untimely demise.
The lyrics of the song unmistakably convey Da Grin’s contemplation of his own mortality, but it’s the palpable emotions embedded in the melodies and delivery that evoke the necessary pathos for listeners to emotionally connect with it.

Street Music during the 2000s, 2010s, and even in the present is primarily crafted to deliver party-starting gratification. Artists like Neo-Fuji pioneer 9ice, Lord of Ajasa, and contemporary street music stars such as Terry G, Small Doctor, Q Dot, Slim Case, Idowest, Zlatan, and Naira Marley contribute to the dominant groovy nature of Street music.

However, there’s currently a noticeable shift in Street music, with younger artists incorporating melancholy into their works, sharing the struggles of everyday life in the inner cities.

For instance, 9ice’s hit single ‘Living Things’ expresses his desire for wealth with a groovy sonic structure. In comparison, Rybeena’s ‘ID.ME’ and TI Blaze’s ‘Try,’ two songs from younger artists exploring similar themes, adopt a more reflective and somber approach. This departure from the traditionally celebratory mood signifies a growing emotional depth in Street music.

This emotional evolution is particularly evident in a subgenre labeled “Afro Adura” or “Afro Prayer.” Unlike Gospel music, Afro Adura songs focus on earnest supplication, expressing the soul’s outpouring in search of comfort amid life’s harsh realities in a challenging country. These songs carry the artist’s emotions, deviating from the typical party-starting effects associated with Street music.

Street songs under the “Afro Adura” tag, such as Ayox’s ‘Humble Cry,’ Mohbad’s Street Gospel in ‘Blessings,’ Seyi Vibez’s message of hope in ‘Dejavu,’ and Zinoleesky’s reflection on his journey in ‘Many Things,’ feature mid-tempo arrangements that allow the artists’ emotions to resonate and connect with listeners.

The growing presence of emotions in Street music can be attributed to both social and musical influences. Socio-economic realities shape the daily lives of these artists, prompting them to document their experiences through introspection and emotional exploration.

Musically, contemporary Western genres like Swing, Emo rap, and Mumble rap contribute to the shift in Street music. Artists like Balloranking, Bahd Man Niko, Otega, TI Blaze, and Damo K offer a modern take on the Konto sound, influenced by these mainstream genres.

Street artists are also drawn to the themes found in Emo rap and Trap, sharing common ground with rappers who navigate struggles to escape the hood, seek solace in psychedelics, and address subjects like fraud. Notable Emo rap figures like Juice WRLD, Lil Uzi Vert, XXXTentacion, and Trippie Redd resonate with Street artists and young Hip Hop consumers in inner cities, influencing their musical styles.

The global popularity of Lil Durk in Nigeria and Kodak Black acknowledging Mohbad’s passing during an Instagram live session further exemplify the cross-cultural appeal. Eccentric rappers like Trippie Redd find resonance in Portable’s music and personality.

For decades, Street music has provided a diverse view of Nigerian music, and this evolution toward a more emotionally resonant style may position it as Nigeria’s foremost genre in the future.