Tyler, the Creator continues to embrace his African heritage with his latest single, “NOID,” from his highly anticipated eighth studio album, Chromakopia. In this new track, Tyler dives into the depths of celebrity paranoia while paying tribute to the iconic Zamrock band, Ngozi Family, by sampling their track “Nizaka Panga Ngozi.” This move not only reinforces Tyler’s knack for blending genres but also highlights his growing connection to his African roots.
In recent years, Tyler has become more open about his African identity, tracing his lineage back to Nigeria through his father, who is of Igbo descent. His use of his birth surname, Okonma, on his albums and in public spaces signifies a growing sense of pride in his heritage. His father’s background has sparked numerous references, both subtle and direct, in Tyler’s music and personal life. A memorable instance occurred in 2016, when after a playful race with Kanye West, Tyler proudly exclaimed, “I’m Nigerian!” in celebration of his victory.
With Chromakopia, and especially through “NOID,” Tyler takes this sense of pride a step further, showcasing his appreciation for African music and culture.
“NOID” stands out musically for its heavy sampling of “Nizaka Panga Ngozi” by Ngozi Family, one of the seminal bands in the 1970s Zamrock movement. Zamrock, a blend of traditional Zambian music and Western rock influences, became an iconic genre during Zambia’s post-independence period. By incorporating the grungy intro of the Ngozi Family track and featuring the powerful chant of their lead singer, Paul Ngozi, Tyler fuses contemporary rap with an African soundscape.
Paul Ngozi’s chant, sung in Chewa, a language spoken in Zambia, Mozambique, and Malawi, serves as the backbone for the hook of “NOID,” adding a unique and earthy depth to the track. This inclusion underscores Tyler’s ability to bring global sounds into his own distinct style, while highlighting his respect for African music.
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This isn’t the first time Tyler has sampled African music in his work. Fans may recall “I THINK” from his 2019 album IGOR, which used melodic samples from Nigerian singer Bibi Mascel’s “Special Lady,” a boogie track from the 1980s, as well as a drum loop from Cameroonian Nigerian producer Nkono Teles’ hit, “Get Down.” Teles was instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s pop music in that era, and by drawing on his work, Tyler acknowledged his influence on modern sounds. With “NOID,” Tyler deepens his exploration of African musical influences, turning the spotlight on a different region and genre, continuing his exploration of his roots.
Accompanying the single is a sepia-toned music video that visually complements the track’s themes of isolation and unease. The video also features a notable cameo from actress and comedian Ayo Edebiri, whose father is Nigerian. Her presence in the video reinforces Tyler’s ongoing connection to his heritage and the broader African diaspora, as both the music and visuals weave cultural references into the narrative.
In addition to the musical choices that echo his Nigerian identity, Tyler has expressed his pride in more public and direct ways. Earlier this year, he called out his omission from OkayAfrica’s highlights of African artists at Coachella, humorously commenting, “My last name is OKONMA, I was there lol.” It’s clear that as Tyler’s career progresses, he is increasingly intent on affirming his connection to his African roots, both through his music and in his public persona.
With Chromakopia on the horizon, fans are eager to see how Tyler continues to embrace and celebrate his African heritage. If “NOID” is any indication, the album promises to be a rich, genre-blending project that will further showcase his growing appreciation for African sounds, while cementing his place as a global artist unafraid to explore and honor his origins.
Tyler, the Creator’s latest single, “NOID,” is not only a testament to his creative genius but also a heartfelt nod to his African ancestry. By sampling the Zamrock legends Ngozi Family, Tyler connects generations and cultures, proving once again that his music transcends borders. As Chromakopia nears its release, fans and critics alike are left wondering what other cultural layers Tyler will unravel as he continues his journey of self-discovery and musical evolution.
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