ALBUM: Teni – Tears of the Sun
Teniola Apata, sometimes known as Teni the Entertainer, is a well-known national personality who performs, sings, composes, acts, and tells stories. She has produced an album with a collection of different stories on it. A unique medley of various sounds and civilizations was composed and performed by her. She starts with amazing music and shares a glimpse into her life. “Tears of the Sun,” with Teni’s distinct sound and a dynamic twist, is primarily an exploration of Afro-pop. November 17, 2023 saw the debut of the project, which with its colorful array of sounds demonstrates the artist’s versatility. With joyful highs and introspective lows, the album’s general tone is one of emotional rollercoasters. Teni’s engaging performance and memorable tunes create the ideal atmosphere for an engrossing musical encounter.
Teni’s album cover shows her looking up with her eyes closed, the sun shining on her face. Even if the background is filled with calligraphy and Egyptian patterns, the artwork may have been less simple and more creative. Still, Teni’s real and open story throughout the record offers a personal window into her thoughts and perspective. The title of the album, “Tears of the Sun,” alludes to the complexity of life and love. Additionally, Teni’s ability to combine artistic flair with a variety of skills is demonstrated by the album’s catchy choruses, which entice listeners to join her on a melodious voyage. A track-by-track review of Teni’s “TEARS OF THE SUN” album may be found by reading on.
YBGFA
The first track, “YBGFA,” stands for “Young Black Girl from Africa,” and while many may misunderstand it, it appears to be a response to those who assume Teni isn’t capable of singing because of their preconceived notions. This song is the perfect way to start the album because it’s a tribute to all the young women who are pursuing their dreams and having identity issues. In a subtle way, Teni implies that people don’t know much about her and that she isn’t who they think she is with her remarks. Her nonconformity to social conventions is implied, at least partially, in the lyrics. It certainly seems to suggest that she is sexual, at least when she states that it doesn’t matter who she sleeps with as long as it feels right.
POPO
“Popo” showcases Teni’s ability to depict love in a unique way. Unlike traditional love ballads, it emphasizes the reconfirmation of love. For those who have the courage to give their significant other a gift they won’t soon forget, this endearing song is perfect. It concerns her unrequited affection for her spouse in a relationship. The song features a lot of musical elements, but the lyrics aren’t particularly memorable.
CAPRICORN & TAURUS
The third track, “Capricorn and Taurus,” makes you smile. This song is a stunning display of passion. It is devoted to all Capricorns and Tauruses who appreciate Teni’s musical ability. The tone even reminds me of Amaarae’s delivery. The production of this song is excellent. The chorus is as vicious as the lyrics. It’s the perfect romance melody.
JALINGO
Teni’s rendition of “Jalingo” showcases her exceptional ability to blend multiple storylines into a single song, all of which add to the song’s title meaning. Given that the story was developed during her dramatic visit to Buguma in Port Harcourt, the plot is intriguing. The song has strong percussion, juju elements, and fuji melodies. It’s really well-rehearsed and delivered. There’s also a nice mix of music that’s suitable for dancing and relaxing listening.
HOLY MATRIMONY
“Holy Matrimony,” the fifth song on Teni’s most recent album, “TEARS OF THE SUN,” is a testament to her extraordinary talent and range as a performer. With a total of 16 tracks on the album, this record stands out as one of the project’s highlights. Daniel Williams, a gifted music producer, produced “Holy Matrimony” with skill. Teni’s engaging vocals are expertly matched by his masterful production, which makes the song come to life.
LANKE
Among the album’s first six tracks, “Lanke” stands out as an anthem, therefore it makes sense that it was released as a single prior to the album’s official release. The song has a lot of repeat potential and is likely to stay in your memory because of its memorable chorus. Teni blends multiple stories into a single song in about two minutes and thirty-two seconds. It should come as no surprise that the song is on the charts given how well the beat complements the song.
YAYA TOURE
The degree to which Teni’s lifestyle is revealed in “Yaya Toure” may surprise listeners. Fans will always be enthralled by Teni’s track names since she consistently chooses them to highlight the depth of her story.
BANGA
The eighth song, “Banga,” has a great title and a cute premise, but many people don’t think you should sing another song for your “baby.” There are many fascinating stories from Nigerian culture and daily life that might be included in an amazing song. Still, the music makes sense.
CONTROL
“Control” presents another love story. It’s reasonable to conclude that this song is explicit because it delves into love and imagination while taking place behind closed doors. Maybe it shouldn’t have made the album since, despite its attempt to be a great dancehall song and 90s afro-instrumentation, it doesn’t sound all that special or stand out, nor does it fit the track’s sexy vibe.
INO Ft Made Kuti
The outstanding composition “Ino,” which features Teni and Màdè Kuti, bluntly addresses the current situation of events in Nigeria. With a gripping storyline that effectively conveys the core of the issue, it is the epitome of how a song should be composed. Màdè’s influence is clearly audible on the song, which is said to have been inspired by the ideas present in early Afrobeat tracks. His contribution to the song is therefore unabated despite the fact that his voice isn’t heard as much.
NO DAYS OF
The song “No Days Off,” which was also released as a single prior to the album’s release, daringly deviates into funky sounds, surprising a lot of listeners while still telling a fantastic story with lines like “from Atlanta to Lagos,” which consider the singer’s past, present, and future. It will create fantastic videos for Instagram reels and appeal to Tik-Tokers with its catchy music.
DEVIL DANCE Ft ODUMODUBLVCK
“Devil Dance,” which features Teni’s contribution, keeps up Odumodublvck’s steady delivery in an enjoyable and lively song. As a pair, they get along well. Rap and afrobeats are combined in a way that gives the song the vibe of a societal critique.
MALAIKA
In the song “Malakia,” Teni thanks God and her supporters for being there for her ever since she became well-known in the Nigerian music industry. Teni is thanking God for saving her from a life-threatening disease and for guiding her so far.
APATA
Teni has elevated the Apata name to unprecedented levels, as “Apata” eloquently displays by reminding everyone of her identity and addressing those who had doubts about her ability to carry the name. Teni’s heritage is celebrated in this song, which also makes reference to his last name. Tayc appears on the lovely love ballad
MERCREDI Ft TAYC
“Mercredi,” which belongs significantly higher on the record. It distinguishes itself from the other tracks thanks to its superb production and sound. They coo and groove to the relaxed afrobeat, and Tayc’s amazing voice has always come through. Their chemistry is clearly evident.
HOW
Teni’s outstanding talent is evident in the album’s last tune, “How,” which shines out. From the opening track to the finale, she skillfully combines a variety of soundscapes to demonstrate her diversity as an artist while continually upholding the highest caliber of performance. The lyrics of the song combine a sensitive request for help from a higher power with Teni’s unwavering spirit and intense resolve to succeed. An amazing album comes to a fitting end with “How,” a stunning demonstration of Teni’s creativity.
Rating
Delivery: 1.8/2 Lyricism: 1.7/2 Relatability: 1.7/2 Mixing and Production: 1.8/2 Replay Value: 1.8/2
