Hello! 😊👋
Welcome to a new edition of the Daily Music Picks newsletter!
Today’s music pick is an exceptional sophomore outing from Asake, one of Afrobeat’s brightest stars.
Genre: Afrobeat, Amapiano
Label: Empire
Release Date: June 16, 2023
Vibe: 🔥🔥🔥
If you’re at all familiar with the world of Afrobeat, you’ll know Asake’s name. Following his 2022 debut, the smash-hit Mr. Money with the Vibe, he positioned himself to be a global ambassador for a country (Nigeria) and a genre that’s having a moment right now. His new LP, Work of Art, cements his status as a superstar more than capable of carrying that torch, adding a deeper, more personal touch to his successful sonic blueprint.
Amid the infectious amapiano beats on tracks like “What’s Up My G,” and “2:30,” there’s an implied understanding of responsibility on Asake’s part. He wants to use his music to lift people up, encouraging them to overcome stifling environments or circumstances. Whether it’s the soaring harmonies of a cut like “Sunshine” or the deliberate thoughtfulness of “Awodi,” Asake showcases his considerable talent for staying true to African musical tradition, even as he updates it for a more mainstream, pop-ready sound.
It won’t be long before he hits Burna Boy levels of global fame.
👉 Don’t forget to click the album image to stream the album on your favorite platform 👈
Got thoughts on this album? Did you love it? Sound off in the comments.