Wizkid’s Morayo is a testament to his growth as an artist, blending his early Afrobeat roots with his modern, soulful sensibilities. The album feels like a journey through time, offering both nostalgia and innovation, making it a near-perfect piece of art.
A Thoughtful Opening
The reflective opener, Troubled Mind, immediately sets the tone for the album. By incorporating Fuji legend Kwam 1 De Ultimate’s performance from his late mother’s funeral, Wizkid taps into a deeply personal and emotional space. This mid-tempo track isn’t just an introduction—it’s an invitation to connect with Wizkid on a vulnerable level.
Capturing Afrobeat’s Essence
The second track, Karamo, shifts the album’s energy with a high-tempo groove reminiscent of Wizkid’s early days. This energy climaxes with Kese, a track that encapsulates Afrobeat’s ability to bring joy and movement. Its record-breaking streams within 24 hours of release underscore its appeal.
Collaborative Magic
Wizkid’s collaborations on Morayo are a masterclass in chemistry. Brent Faiyaz’s feature on Piece of My Heart brings an unexpected two-in-one track format that fuses R&B and Afrobeat in seamless harmony. Similarly, Bad Girl featuring Asake is an energetic, playful tribute to the Afrobeat party scene, even though it doesn’t quite outshine their earlier collaboration, MMS.
The inclusion of international stars like Jazmine Sullivan (Bad For You) and French rapper Tiakola (Après Minuit) highlights Wizkid’s global influence. These tracks underscore his ability to merge Afrobeat with other genres while maintaining its authenticity.
Exploration and Reflection
From the sensual Afro-Caribbean vibes of Break Me Down to the introspective calm of Slow and Lose, the album delves into multiple layers of Wizkid’s artistry. These softer, more reflective tracks add depth, offering a balance between high-energy hits and soulful ballads.
Production Excellence
P2J’s production dominance brings a cohesive sound to the album. The rich instrumentation—especially the use of gangan drums, saxophones, and orchestral elements—elevates the listening experience. However, introducing more diverse producers could have added fresh textures to the mix.
Thematic Focus
Although Morayo leans towards versatility, it lacks a unifying theme. The absence of a central narrative tied to its title (a tribute to Wizkid’s late mother) leaves the album feeling slightly fragmented. Nonetheless, its ability to showcase every phase of Wizkid’s evolution compensates for this shortfall.
Final Verdict
Morayo is a celebration of Wizkid’s journey and an assertion of his versatility. It reconnects with the energy and vibrancy that made him a star while embracing the maturity that has defined his recent projects.
Rating: 9/10.
While not entirely groundbreaking, it’s a rich, heartfelt, and captivating body of work that will resonate with fans and casual listeners alike.
