Ololade Ahmed, widely known by his stage name Asake, has opened up about his preference for singing in Yoruba, the language that dominates his chart-topping hits. The Grammy-nominated Nigerian artist, who has captured the hearts of millions with his unique blend of Afrobeats, recently shared his thoughts during an interactive session with fans on Instagram.
Asake, whose discography includes the acclaimed albums Mr Money With The Vibes (2022), Work of Art (2023), and the latest Lungu Boy, explained that while he has the ability to sing in English, he feels a deeper connection to his music when performing in Yoruba. “I am more comfortable singing in Yoruba,” Asake stated. “It’s not that I can’t sing in English, but if you fvck with me, fvck with me with my Yoruba. If not, then don’t.”
His comments reflect a broader theme in his music, where the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba language plays a central role. Despite being predominantly sung in Yoruba, Asake’s work has transcended linguistic barriers, resonating with a global audience and earning him a nomination in the inaugural Best African Music Performance category at the 66th Grammy Awards. His hit song Amapiano, which was up for the prestigious award, highlighted his commitment to his roots, even though it ultimately lost to South African singer Tyla’s viral track Water.
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Asake’s decision to stick to his linguistic heritage is a testament to his authenticity and dedication to his craft. By choosing to express himself in Yoruba, he not only preserves the essence of his cultural identity but also introduces the richness of the language to a broader audience. His message to fans was clear: embrace the music in its most authentic form or move on.
In a music industry where artists often feel pressured to conform to global standards, Asake’s unapologetic stance on singing in Yoruba sets him apart as an artist who remains true to his roots, regardless of external expectations. As his popularity continues to soar, Asake’s Yoruba lyrics are likely to remain a defining feature of his music, solidifying his place in the pantheon of contemporary African music stars.
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