Global music sensation Ayo Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, has set the music world ablaze with the release of his sixth studio album, Morayo. The deeply personal project, unveiled on streaming platforms in the early hours of Friday, serves as a poignant tribute to his late mother, Jane Dolapo Balogun, who passed away in August 2023.
The 14-track album is a blend of Wizkid’s signature Afrobeat style and diverse global sounds, showcasing his evolution as an artist while reflecting the emotional depth of his journey since the loss of his mother. The title Morayo, derived from the Yoruba language, translates to “I see joy,” a phrase that encapsulates the bittersweet essence of the album.
A Star-Studded Musical Masterpiece
Morayo features an impressive lineup of collaborations with international and Nigerian artists, including Asake, Brent Faiyaz, Jazmine Sullivan, Anaïs, and French artist Tiakola. These partnerships add rich layers to tracks such as “Troubled Mind,” “Karamo,” and the fan-favorite “Piece of My Heart.” The album seamlessly traverses genres, merging Afrobeat with elements of R&B, soul, and amapiano.
The tracklist includes:
- Troubled Mind
- Karamo
- Kese (Dance)
- Bad Girl
- Time
- Piece of My Heart
- Break Me Down
- Bend
- A Million Blessings
- Après Minuit
- Bad for You
- Soji
- Don’t Care
- Pray
Emotional Singles That Captivated Fans
Ahead of the album’s release, Wizkid teased listeners with two singles: “Piece of My Heart” in October and “Kese (Dance)” in November. Both tracks garnered critical acclaim and hinted at the deeply reflective nature of the full album.
Since his breakout in 2011 with Superstar, Wizkid has consistently pushed the boundaries of African music on the global stage. With previous albums such as Made in Lagos, which became the most-streamed Nigerian album on Apple Music, and his Grammy-winning collaboration with Beyoncé on Brown Skin Girl, Wizkid has cemented his place as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
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Wizkid Dominates the Africa Arts Entertainment Awards
In addition to the album release, Wizkid has been nominated for seven awards at the Africa Arts Entertainment Awards, further solidifying his impact on the industry.
Fans React to the Emotional Tribute
The album’s release has sparked a wave of emotions among fans and industry peers, with many praising Wizkid for channeling his grief into a body of work that celebrates love, resilience, and artistry. Social media platforms are buzzing with tributes to the artist and his late mother, highlighting how Morayo resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level.
