Nigerian street pop sensation Zinoleesky continues to ride the wave of success from his critically acclaimed debut album Gen Z, which debuted at #9 on the Billboard World Albums chart, topped the Official Nigerian Top 100 Albums chart for two weeks, and has amassed over 100 million global streams. Today, he unveils the music video for fan-favorite track “Ayamase,” featuring South London rap star MS Banks.
“Ayamase” is an infectious fusion of melodic rap, street pop, and afrobeats that explores themes of love, desire, and mutual respect through a uniquely Nigerian perspective. Produced by Niphkeys — known for work with Stormzy, Rema, and Asake — the track finds Zinoleesky in confessional mode, expressing loyalty and longing to a lover he hopes will reciprocate his feelings. MS Banks counters with a sharp, assertive verse that reclaims the narrative, asserting her worth and setting clear terms.
The accompanying video, shot in Lagos and directed by Mediakid (Tiwa Savage, Shallipopi, Joeboy) with creative direction from Dir. Ley (Jordan Adetunji, Roy Woods), brings the song’s themes to life through a cinematic lens rich in stylized street realism. Set against a sunlit Lagos street corner, the video pays tribute to West African street culture, portraying two crews facing off with silent confidence — Zinoleesky and his crew on one side, MS Banks and her crew on the other.
Named after a beloved Yoruba delicacy, “Ayamase” uses food as a metaphor for romantic desire and commitment, transforming a familiar dish into a layered symbol of passion and emotional truth. Beyond metaphor, the track tackles power dynamics in relationships, vulnerability, and cultural pride, celebrating connection on equal footing with undeniable Lagos energy and flair.
“Ayamase” stands out on Gen Z, an album that has earned praise from Rolling Stone, Billboard, Dazed, and Notion, among others. The project reflects Zinoleesky’s identity, resilience, and reinvention, blending raw street energy with melodic vulnerability and forward-thinking vision. Inspired by his love of gaming and virtual escapism, Gen Z explores afro-futuristic themes while championing African music subgenres like afropiano and afroswing.
With over a billion streams worldwide, Zinoleesky is not only the voice of a generation but also a defining force in Nigerian music today. As he bridges street pop and global stages, Gen Z offers a fresh lens on African youth culture, one filled with passion, creativity, and undeniable swagger.
Stream Below:open.spotify.com/track/193klCVa7
