Olamide’s Self-Titled Album Reviewed – Masterclass in Evolution and Legacy
When an artist as accomplished as Olamide names an album after himself this deep into his career, it’s not just a statement – it’s a moment. With over a decade of dominance in Nigerian music, the YBNL boss returns with Olamide, a self-titled project that feels less like a victory lap and more like a reintroduction. This album isn’t about proving himself – it’s about reaffirming his identity, evolving sound, and unmatched influence in the game.
From gritty street anthems to polished Afropop collaborations, Olamide bridges nostalgia with reinvention. The production is textured, the features intentional, and the delivery sharp – Olamide sounds both relaxed and hungry, as if reminding us that he’s still shaping the culture he helped create.
Olamide’s Self-Titled Album Reviewed – Masterclass in Evolution and LegacyTrack-by-Track Breakdown: Olamide – A Journey Through Sound, Spirit & StreetsPrelude ft. Fxrtune – A Soulful Opening NoteHasibunallah – Faith, Fire, and FocusKai! ft. Wizkid – Pure Star Power, Pure VibesLuvaluvah – Rhythmic, Romantic & RadiantBillionaires Club ft. Wizkid & Darkoo – Luxury, Legacy & Lagos Swagger Free ft. Seyi Vibez & Muyeez – Young, Wild & FreeDuro – A Solo Masterclass in Love & PatienceSpecial – Olamide in His Feel-Good ElementIndika ft. Dr. Dre & SPINALL – West Coast Vibes Meet Lagos Heat1 Shot – Raw, Relentless, and All Olamide99 ft. Seyi Vibez, Asake, Young Jonn & Daecolm – An All-Star Cypher of Chaos & BrillianceRuba – Smooth, Spiritual, and Surprisingly RomanticRain ft. Popcaan – A Soulful Storm with Depth and DancehallParis ft. Fadi – A Brief but Beautiful Emotional EscapeHybrid – Olamide in Full Afropop Beast ModeLalakipo – A Certified Fan FavoriteStronger ft. BOJ – Living, Healing & VibingFinal Thoughts: A Legacy Reinforced, A Sound Reimagined
Track-by-Track Breakdown: Olamide – A Journey Through Sound, Spirit & Streets
Olamide – OLAMIDE Tracklist
From introspective anthems to street-certified bangers, Olamide’s self-titled album isn’t just a collection of songs – it’s a statement of legacy, growth, and raw authenticity. With 17 tracks that blend Afrobeats, rap, fuji, and soul, the YBNL boss invites us into his world – one lyric, one beat, one emotion at a time.
Read on as we dive into each track and explore how Olamide captures the heart of a veteran who’s still evolving, still ruling, and still repping the streets that made him.
Prelude ft. Fxrtune – A Soulful Opening Note
Olamide kicks off the album with Prelude, a short yet deeply introspective track featuring the rising talent Fxrtune. The production is mellow and soul-laced, setting a contemplative tone that feels both personal and universal. Olamide doesn’t waste time on flash here – he lets the emotion lead, opening the door to his world with vulnerability.
Fxrtune’s contribution adds a smooth, almost ethereal texture, perfectly complementing Baddo’s grounded voice. Though brief, the track is loaded with purpose. It’s the kind of intro that tells you: this isn’t just an album – it’s a personal statement.
Hasibunallah – Faith, Fire, and Focus
On Hasibunallah, Olamide taps into a deeper spiritual consciousness, fusing his street-rooted lyricism with a message of divine reliance. The title, an Islamic phrase meaning “God is sufficient for us,” reflects the core of the song’s energy – resilience through faith.
Over a haunting, minimalist beat, Olamide raps with intent and clarity, affirming his belief in divine justice while taking subtle jabs at doubters. His delivery is calm but commanding, and every bar drips with the confidence of a man who’s seen storms but never drowned.
Hasibunallah feels like a spiritual checkpoint in the album, reminding listeners that behind Olamide’s fame and power lies an unshakable belief system. It’s reflective, bold, and beautifully raw.
Kai! ft. Wizkid – Pure Star Power, Pure Vibes
Kai! is a standout on the Olamide album, not just because it reunites two Nigerian heavyweights, but because it delivers exactly what fans expect – and then some. First released as a single, this track set the tone for the album’s arrival with a perfect blend of street essence and superstar finesse.
Wizkid opens the track with his smooth, airy melodies that glide effortlessly over the bouncy mid-tempo production. Olamide comes in with his signature blend of Yoruba wordplay, confidence, and laid-back bravado. The chemistry is palpable; it’s not forced, it’s not flashy – it just flows.
The instrumental leans into afro-fusion with subtle log drums, clean percussion, and atmospheric synths, creating a spacious soundscape that allows both artists to shine without stepping on each other. It’s a song built for replay: chill enough for a solo vibe session, yet catchy enough to dominate summer playlists.
Kai! isn’t just a collaboration – it’s a cultural moment. It celebrates longevity, evolution, and the effortless cool that only legends like Olamide and Wizkid can bring to the table.
Luvaluvah – Rhythmic, Romantic & Radiant
Luvaluvah sees Olamide tap into his soft, rhythmic side with a smooth Afropop groove that’s both catchy and charming. The song is a breezy, mid-tempo jam layered with lush percussion, subtle guitar riffs, and warm melodies, delivering a sonic vibe that leans more toward romance than the streets.
Olamide plays the smooth lover boy here, dropping lyrics filled with affection and desire, but still laced with his trademark confidence and Yoruba-toned expressions. His delivery is effortless, riding the beat with ease while maintaining the rhythmic pulse that makes the track danceable without trying too hard.
Luvaluvah might not be the flashiest track on the album, but it’s one of the most feel-good. It’s the kind of tune you catch yourself humming hours later, perfect for slow wine sessions or windows-down evening drives. Olamide proves once again that he can switch lanes – effortlessly weaving between street anthem and lover boy – without losing the core of who he is.
Billionaires Club ft. Wizkid & Darkoo – Luxury, Legacy & Lagos Swagger
Olamide brings out the big guns on Billionaires Club, teaming up with Wizkid and Darkoo for a smooth, confident anthem that oozes wealth, influence, and untouchable status. From the moment the beat drops, the track is laced with premium energy, mid-tempo, laid-back, yet laced with flair.
Wizkid floats effortlessly with his trademark melodic finesse, delivering lines that feel both boastful and breezy. Darkoo adds a punchy London-Nigeria blend, injecting the track with attitude and stylish grit. Olamide, of course, commands with the assurance of a mogul – his bars reaffirming his staying power and relentless hustle in the game.
Billionaires Club doesn’t just celebrate material success – it’s a sonic flex, a cultural export, and a reminder that Nigerian artists are rewriting the rules of global stardom on their own terms.
Free ft. Seyi Vibez & Muyeez – Young, Wild & Free
Free is a vibrant anthem of youthful rebellion and boundless energy. Featuring the raw vocals of Muyeez and the ever-soulful Seyi Vibez, this track captures the exhilarating spirit of being young, fearless, and unapologetically free.
It’s less of a polished reflection and more of a declaration – an ode to those who are living fast, chasing dreams, and embracing every high and low that comes with it. The production blends street-hop grit with melodic Afrobeats polish, making it feel both grounded and catchy.
Seyi Vibez’s rich delivery rides the beat with emotion, while Muyeez’s youthful voice adds a fresh spark that mirrors the song’s message. Olamide comes in with that laid-back wisdom, dropping verses that feel like a veteran talking to the next generation, yet still joining in the celebration.
Free is for the ones who live with no regrets. It’s the soundtrack for late nights, street rides, and moments when the only plan is to enjoy life with no limits.
Duro – A Solo Masterclass in Love & Patience
Duro stands tall as one of the most emotionally resonant and beautifully crafted songs on Olamide. It’s a solo effort from Baddo himself, and he delivers every line with maturity, sincerity, and unmatched soul.
Built on a mellow Afrobeats rhythm that leans into soft percussion and rich melodies, Duro is a love letter to someone from Olamide’s past – an old flame he once asked to wait on him while he chased his dreams. Now standing tall in success, he looks back, reflecting on the promises made and the weight of that request.
There’s no guest feature here, and that’s intentional. It’s personal. Olamide commands the entire track with warmth and vulnerability, his delivery soaked in gratitude and longing. The lyrics speak to every dreamer who’s had to leave love behind for a season, hoping it would still be there when the stars finally align.
Duro is both a reminder of where he came from and a tribute to the people who believed in him before the world did. It’s timeless, it’s heartfelt, and it’s Olamide at his storytelling best.
Special – Olamide in His Feel-Good Element
Specialsees Olamide gliding smoothly over an upbeat Afropop rhythm, embracing bright melodies and infectious vibes. The production is light and bouncy, giving him room to play with cadence and melody, and he does so with effortless flair. It’s a celebratory tune – radiating gratitude, confidence, and the joy of simply living in the moment.
This track captures Olamide in his feel-good zone, delivering lines that are both catchy and meaningful, reminding listeners why his versatility continues to set him apart. It’s one of those songs you put on when you’re feeling yourself, or need a reminder that you should.
Indika ft. Dr. Dre & SPINALL – West Coast Vibes Meet Lagos Heat
On Indika, Olamide brings together an unexpected but potent trio: the legendary Dr. Dre, superstar Nigerian DJ SPINALL, and himself. The result is a globally flavored track that feels like a cultural crossover done right.
Laced with laid-back production and a woozy, hypnotic beat, Indika leans into hazy vibes – its title likely a nod to the strain of inspiration fueling the track. Dr. Dre‘s signature sonic influence subtly creeps into the instrumentation, while SPINALL keeps the Afrobeats bounce alive underneath.
Olamide delivers smooth bars with confidence, blending English and Yoruba as he raps about elevation, both mentally and materially. It’s a song that feels cool, smoked-out, and effortlessly global, showing that Olamide is not afraid to experiment while staying rooted.
1 Shot – Raw, Relentless, and All Olamide
1 Shot finds Olamide riding solo and fully in his bag. This Afropop-leaning tune is layered with street grit, clever wordplay, and that unfiltered, raw rap delivery fans have come to rate so highly. With bouncy percussion and a steady groove, the beat provides just enough room for him to snap effortlessly across every bar.
It’s brash yet measured – Olamide flexes his lyrical dexterity while keeping the vibe catchy and digestible. The energy feels like a freestyle laced with purpose: a reminder that even when he leans into melody, he’s still a lion with the mic.
1 Shot is not just a track – it’s a power statement. One bullet, one verse, one hit. Classic Baddo.
99 ft. Seyi Vibez, Asake, Young Jonn & Daecolm – An All-Star Cypher of Chaos & Brilliance
99 is the kind of record that shakes the table – arguably the best track on Olamide. From the jump, it feels like a declaration, a warning, and a celebration all at once. Featuring a stacked lineup of Asake, Young Jonn, Seyi Vibez, and Daecolm, this song feels like a musical riot where every artist brings their A-game, yet somehow it all fits within Olamide’s sonic universe.
The production is thunderous, layered with street-coded percussion, a haunting hook, and pockets of melody that each guest rides differently. Seyi Vibez brings his raw, emotive style. Asake adds flair with his charismatic flows. Young Jonn, both as producer and artist, infuses bounce and urgency, while Daecolm’s vocals give the track a cool melodic spine.
Olamide? He’s the glue – stepping in with elite confidence, anchoring the chaos like a seasoned general leading his army through Lagos traffic with swagger and steel.
99 feels like a cultural moment: a gritty posse cut that reminds you why Olamide is still the one setting the tone in Nigerian music.
Ruba – Smooth, Spiritual, and Surprisingly Romantic
Ruba finds Olamide sliding effortlessly into his Afropop loverboy bag, bringing a sound that’s both smooth and soul-stirring. The production is mellow yet textured, filled with soft percussion, airy melodies, and emotive chords that create a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Lyrically, Olamide leans into vulnerability. There’s a tenderness to his delivery that feels refreshing, showing off the emotional depth that often hides behind his tougher persona. He’s not just flexing here – he’s serenading, reflecting, and opening up about love in a way that’s spiritual as much as it is romantic.
Ruba may not be the loudest track on the album, but it’s one of the most heartfelt. It grows on you with every listen, revealing new layers of melody, meaning, and mood. It’s Olamide reminding us that even the king of the streets has a soft side – and he’s not afraid to show it.
Rain ft. Popcaan – A Soulful Storm with Depth and Dancehall
Rain brings a refreshing emotional turn on Olamide, featuring Jamaican superstar Popcaan in a standout cross-continental collaboration. This track blends soulful reflection with smooth dancehall rhythms, creating a soundscape that’s both vulnerable and vibey.
Lyrically, Rain is about weathering storms – both metaphorical and real. Olamide taps into his introspective side, reflecting on personal struggles, resilience, and his woman who has held him down through the darkest days. Popcaan elevates the message with a poignant verse full of warmth and spiritual grounding, delivered in his signature patois.
The instrumental is mellow but textured: a fusion of Afropop groove, reggae percussion, and melancholic synths. It’s the kind of track that you sit with – it doesn’t just ask for your ears; it asks for your heart.
With Rain, Olamide proves he’s not just a hitmaker – he’s a storyteller, and this story hits home.
Paris ft. Fadi – A Brief but Beautiful Emotional Escape
Paris is a stunning detour on Olamide, offering listeners a delicate yet emotionally rich moment featuring the emerging talent, Fadi. Though short in length, the track leaves a lasting impression, thanks to its tender arrangement and the haunting elegance of French lyrics woven into the melody.
Fadi takes the lead with a soulful performance sung partly in French, bringing a touch of romance, nostalgia, and poetic depth. Her vocals float effortlessly over the dreamy, minimalist production, evoking the feeling of walking through the streets of Paris on a quiet night, lost in thought, perhaps lost in love.
Olamide complements this ambiance with subtle, introspective lines that show restraint but carry weight. He lets the mood breathe, allowing Fadi’s vocal work to shine while adding just enough of himself to keep the song grounded in his world.
Paris feels like a whispered confession – a soft, emotional interlude that offers a pause in the album’s energy, yet deepens its overall richness. It’s Olamide at his most delicate – and it’s beautiful.
Hybrid – Olamide in Full Afropop Beast Mode
On Hybrid, Olamide flips the switch and enters full-on beast mode. It’s one of the most energetic, confident tracks on the Olamide album, showing off his versatility and elite command of Afropop. From the moment the beat drops, you can feel this one’s not here to play.
The production is sleek and hard-hitting, fusing vibrant Afro rhythms with pop-inspired bounce and swagger. Olamide rides the beat with an effortless mix of melody and grit, switching between smooth flows and catchy one-liners that make it instantly replayable.
Lyrically, he’s boasting, flexing, and celebrating his dual identity as both a street legend and a chart-topper. The title Hybrid fits perfectly – this is a song that blends styles, cultures, and sounds, just like Olamide himself.
This track feels like a victory lap – bold, infectious, and dripping with charisma. It’s Olamide in his hottest Afropop form, and it absolutely slaps.
Lalakipo – A Certified Fan Favorite
Lalakipo is quickly becoming a fan favorite – and for good reason. This mid-tempo jam oozes groove, replay value, and classic Olamide charisma. From the infectious hook to the laid-back but confident delivery, it’s one of those tracks that feels instantly familiar, like it’s been on your playlist for weeks.
Olamide leans into his comfort zone here: slick wordplay, catchy melodies, and a beat that makes your shoulders move without even trying. It’s a song for long drives, late-night hangs, and casual vibes – the type that quietly becomes your go-to jam.
What makes Lalakipo special is how effortlessly cool it sounds. There’s no try-hard energy – just a seasoned artist doing what he does best. It’s a feel-good record with staying power, and fans already know: this one’s a jam for days.
Stronger ft. BOJ – Living, Healing & Vibing
Stronger is a laid-back anthem that glides on a breezy wave of resilience, pleasure, and peace. Featuring BOJ, the track captures that mellow zone where heartbreak meets healing, and the only option is to keep living life softer, freer, and on your own terms.
Olamide coasts effortlessly on the verses, pairing vulnerable lines with a grown, carefree swagger that speaks to overcoming pain without letting it harden your heart. BOJ holds it down with his signature alté-style hook and vocals, making the song feel like an emotional exhale on a sunny rooftop.
Stronger isn’t about fighting battles – it’s about surviving them and choosing joy anyway. It’s a testament to Olamide’s ability to blend introspection with infectious grooves, and another standout from an album full of unexpected gems.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy Reinforced, A Sound Reimagined
With Olamide, the YBNL boss delivers a masterclass in artistic evolution while staying true to his roots. This album is not just a collection of tracks – it’s a reflection of his growth, range, and unwavering relevance in the Nigerian music scene. From soul-searching intros like Prelude and Hasibunallah, to street-ready anthems like 99 and fan-favorite vibes like Lalakipo, the album effortlessly moves across moods and genres.
Olamide proves, once again, that he’s not just riding the wave – he’s helping shape it. Whether he’s rapping introspectively, dropping melodic hooks, or curating unforgettable collaborations, every moment on this album feels intentional. The album, Olamide, is more than a comeback – it’s a confident reminder that Baddo is not just still here; he’s still leading.
Delivery: 1.9/2
Lyricism: 1.9/2
Relatability: 1.8/2
Mixing and Production: 1.8/2
Replay Value: 1.8/2
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Olamide “Olamide” Album Review – Reviewed & Written by Peace Umanah
