There is no denying that the BNXN, who burst onto the scene with raw talent, a distinct sound, and undeniable melodies, has evolved into a self-aware force in Nigeria’s music industry. With numerous singles and extended projects following that fateful recording in a boat, the musician formerly known as Buju has established himself as a witty singer-songwriter in tune with pop culture.
The lyrics, language, and message on his sophomore album, Captain, show that BNXN is coming to terms with his place as an Afropop leader. When an artist names an album something as declarative as ‘Captain,’ it’s an immediate signal of intent. It speaks to leadership, command, and an unwavering sense of direction.
As BNXN himself tells Apple Music, “‘Captain’ is the name one of my friends used to call me. He would often say that as a sign of respect, leadership and to signify who was in charge. I keyed into it deeply in the sense that I started to see myself as a crucial player in the industry, especially the Nigerian music industry. I don’t have to be at the forefront of it all. I just believe the sound or the kind of music I make is up there. It’s important.”
“There’s a significant amount of growth on this project,” he explains. “I feel like anybody who’s a core listener of BNXN knows that this guy is way more confident about what he’s doing. There is a tendency to get very unsure or unstable in this game, but this project just showed me how solidified I am.”
With contributions from a talented cast of collaborators that includes Seyi Vibez, Victony, and Rema, CAPTAIN includes songs for dimly lit clubs, romantic dinners, days of sober reflection, and rebukes to trolls, all while reminding everyone of the relentless drive that has powered BNXN’s rise to the pinnacle of the genre with the right sprinkle of pop culture references.
The album opens with “I Alone,” a track produced by the UK’s Rymez, which immediately sets a vibrant, pop-infused tone. It’s an uptempo welcome, a sonic embrace that pulls you into BNXN’s world. Here, he’s not just singing; he’s reflecting on a journey marked by personal triumphs and the solitude that often accompanies greatness. He brags, not out of arrogance, but from a place of hard-earned self-belief, having overcome life’s myriad challenges.
The next track gives us the first collaboration on the album and it is Set Up, with Seyi Vibez, a combination that we did not think we needed. While the track could have its moments, it does not meet the expectations we have when two Afrobeats stars collide.
With “Cutesy,” BNXN once again proves his musical depth, delivering a track that is as smooth as it is evocative. Produced by Jiggy, this song highlights BNXN’s signature velvety delivery, heartfelt lyricism, and an almost effortless sonic versatility. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of romantic obsession and desire, a raw, unfiltered confession of feelings. BNXN’s honesty shines through in lines like: “Damn, I’m tryna get Jiggy, Cutesy fun size … the shit I’ll do for your love, it’s like a movie. Oh my, I’m sitting here, I’m fucked up.”
Jies, one of the standout tracks from the album, is an abbreviation for “ju idi e seyin,” a playful interpolation from Burna Boy’s classic “Turn Up.” This track is an undeniable party starter, a sonic invitation to the dance floor. Produced by the Young Soul, the track captures the essence of a vibrant club night, where inhibitions are shed and connections are forged. BNXN paints a vivid picture of the club scene, attempting to woo a girl with lines that are both audacious and charming: “Your boyfriend cannot handle everything you have, but I can.”
“Very Soon” was released as a single weeks ahead of the album release and is a testament to the power of collaboration and the organic evolution of a song. This track, quite literally, was inspired by and features FOLA, an artist enjoying an incredible run in Afrobeats. FOLA’s hook is undeniably captivating, carrying the song with an effortless grace. However, it is BNXN’s bridge and verse that truly elevate the track, adding layers of depth and introspection that transform it into something more profound.
While BNXN refers to “Eleyi” as Galala, a throwback to the Ajegunle-inspired dance step, it undeniably evokes a sense of nostalgia with its infectious street-dancehall vibe. Produced in Ghana by the talented Kel-P, this track serves as BNXN’s emphatic declaration of his unique and irreplaceable position within the industry. It’s a bold assertion that nobody can replicate his sound, his style, or his innate ability to make music sound as sweet as he does.
The album’s title track, “Captain,” is a deeply introspective piece that BNXN himself describes as his life. It’s a song that might take some getting used to, but once it settles in, its profound message and undeniable groove reveal themselves. This track is a raw reflection on the relentless pace of his life, a life where immediate gratification is a luxury he rarely affords himself. In Captain, BNXN tells everybody that he didn’t choose this life, but this life chose him
“Yes Sir” is BNXN’s foray into the realm of pure, unadulterated romance. In this track, he paints a picture of a love relationship unburdened by external negativity or naysayers. It’s a sweet serenade where he croons to his beloved, detailing the profound impact she has on him, while she, in turn, reciprocates with unwavering agreement and devotion.
This is a proper love song, a tender exploration of romance that showcases BNXN’s versatility beyond the more assertive or introspective tracks on the album. It’s a gentle reminder that even a captain of the industry can be swept away by the currents of love, finding solace and affirmation in a harmonious partnership.
In “Laye Mi,” we are treated to another nostalgic bop, primarily due to its infectious, juggy vibes and the resonant line, “Emi laye mi o.” This track sees BNXN delving into his personal challenges and the unwavering drive that propels him to succeed in life. He powerfully invokes the line “elo mi to n jo, to n jo lori omi,” a poignant reflection on perseverance.
He sings about his fervent desire to survive and thrive, asserting that what rightfully belongs to him cannot elude him, even in the most trying times. It’s a testament to his relentless work ethic and an anthem for anyone striving to overcome adversity.
“5 hours to Nairobi” is a relatable narrative of the soft life BNXN now enjoys, a stark contrast to his humble beginnings. It’s a reflective piece that chronicles his journey and the immense distance he has covered to reach his current stature.
The song serves as a poignant reminder that his continued ascent and future achievements are directly attributable to the relentless hard work and dedication he invested before his big break. It’s an ode to perseverance, a celebration of success, and an inspiration for aspiring artists.
“Fi Kan We Kan”, featuring Rema, is practically a warning, a sonic declaration that BNXN is not to be tested. This collaboration, which many did not anticipate, had been brewing since 2023 and 2024.
In “Totori,” BNXN directs his lyrical prowess towards another woman, conveying the depth of his seriousness. He masterfully interpolates the classic Olamide and Wizkid track of the same name, yet, much like with “Jies,” he imbues it with his own distinct flavour.
This track sees him expressing a willingness to lavish all his resources on the woman in question, demanding her undivided attention. It’s a bold declaration of intent, showcasing his ability to take a familiar melody and transform it into something uniquely his own, all while maintaining a captivating narrative of desire and devotion.
“Ashimolowo” is a direct response to the noise, a sonic shield against the distractions of social media. BNXN plays on a viral tweet many young Nigerians would remember as a user asked ‘Is Ashimolowo a bad bitch?’ But BNXN’s song plays on the stupidity of the question. He says, “that’s a stupid question, but it’s just me saying, don’t have time for a lot of things, or a lot of mentions.”
This track is a powerful declaration of his focus on success and wealth accumulation, rather than engaging with trivialities. This track is an anthem of self-mastery and divine alignment, a testament to his unwavering resolve to achieve his goals regardless of external noise.
“Cough Syrup”, featuring Victony, is a fascinating case study in artistic collaboration and the serendipitous journey of a song. Upon first listen, I thought it was a track Victony had forgotten to include on his Stubborn Album, and indeed, that intuition would be correct. BNXN sheds light on its origins: “So, this one is a Victony song originally. It was supposed to be on his project, but I was delaying on the verse, mainly because I hadn’t caught anything yet. Music is very sac and special to me, especially if we’re not taking the gbedu [‘beat-driven’] route.”
“In Jesus Name,” featuring the ethereal Soweto Gospel Choir, serves as the album’s powerful and spiritual conclusion. Produced in Cape Town with Gemini Major, this track is more than just a song; it’s a benediction, the “amen” to a heartfelt prayer. BNXN uses this track to offer a glimpse into his life, detailing his journey with a profound sense of confidence and conviction.
It encapsulates the overarching theme of the entire project: an unwavering belief in his path and his solidified position. This track is a spiritual anchor, grounding the album in faith and a deep sense of purpose.
CAPTAIN is more than just BNXN’s sophomore album; it is a definitive statement of his evolution, his confidence, and his undeniable place as a crucial player in the Afropop landscape. From the introspective reflections of “I Alone” and the title track “Captain,” to the romantic declarations of “Yes Sir” and the defiant stance of “Ashimolowo,” BNXN navigates a diverse sonic palette with thematic rigor and lyrical deftness.
This album is a testament to his growth, a celebration of his journey, and a clear indication that he is indeed the captain of his ship, steering Afropop into exciting new territories.
CAPTAIN is an album that demands multiple listens, revealing new layers with each play, and solidifying BNXN’s status as an artist who is not just making music, but shaping the future of a genre.
