Nigerian singer-songwriter Deobi links with Sierra Leonean artist Incredible JJ on Nakupenda, a cross-border Afrobeats single from Shemen Music.
Nakupenda is Swahili for I love you, and Nigerian artists have used the title before. Iyanya cut one with Diamond Platnumz for Applaudise, while Chike made his with Ric Hassani. Chike’s video plays out as a fashion film, with Hassani cast as a photographer.
Iyanya’s version first leaked as Nakupenda (Remember) before its official release. Chike’s version runs 3:26.
Deobi, also known as Deobi Okoro, put out Everyday Honey before this single. All Over You also has a remix with BoyPee, an Afro-soul and Afro-pop act. TrendyBeatz also gave the song a Song of the Day slot. Incredible JJ adds a punchy rap performance, so the record leans toward street-hop.
Nigerian producer Rappnem_beatż, also known as Rappnem Drummer, handled production. Gran P/Mix Rhythm handled co-production and mixing. The sound sits in Afro-fusion, with gyration energy and street-hop edges. Sierra Leone and Nigeria meet on one record, so each artist gets room for their own style.
It adds another collaboration to Deobi’s catalogue, though this one crosses a border. Blast Nakupenda in the car and tell us in the comments – who should link up with Deobi next?
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