By Adeyemi Adekunle
Grammy-nominated Nigerian artist Ololade Ahmed, popularly known as Asake, has stood firm on his decision to sing predominantly in Yoruba, a move he believes is integral to his identity and artistry.
In an interactive Instagram session that resonated with fans worldwide, Asake laid bare the emotions driving his artistic choices. The ‘Omo Ope’ hitmaker, whose music has captured the hearts of millions, clarified that while he has the ability to sing in English, he feels a deep connection to his roots when performing in Yoruba.
“It’s not that I can’t sing in English,” Asake stated, his voice steady and resolved. “But I am more comfortable singing in Yoruba. If you fvck with me, fvck with me with my Yoruba. If not, then don’t.”
These words, delivered with the conviction of an artist who knows his place in the world, have resonated with many, especially in the context of his recent Grammy nomination. Asake’s latest album, *Lungu Boy*, along with his previous works *Mr. Money With The Vibes* (2022) and *Work of Art* (2023), are all predominantly sung in Yoruba. Despite this linguistic preference, his music has crossed cultural and linguistic barriers, earning him international acclaim.
The conversation around Asake’s use of Yoruba in his music was reignited following his Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 66th Grammy Awards. His hit single ‘Amapiano’, a track that seamlessly blends the vibrancy of Yoruba with the infectious rhythms of the South African Amapiano genre, was in the running for the prestigious award. Though the award ultimately went to South African singer Tyla for her viral hit ‘Water’, Asake’s nomination was a testament to the universal appeal of his music, despite its deep cultural roots.
Speaking to fans from a recording studio in Lagos, where the hustle and bustle of the city served as a backdrop, Asake emphasized that his choice to sing in Yoruba is not just a stylistic preference but a cultural statement. “Yoruba is who I am,” he asserted. “It’s how I express myself best, how I connect with my ancestors, and how I want the world to hear my story.”
For many, Asake’s insistence on singing in Yoruba is a reminder of the power of music to bridge cultures, even when it is deeply rooted in a specific tradition. It’s a bold statement in an industry where the pressure to conform to global standards—often dictated by English—can be overwhelming. Yet, Asake remains unfazed by these pressures, choosing instead to stay true to his heritage.
As Lagosians tune into his latest tracks, the streets buzz with excitement. From the vibrant markets of Balogun to the artsy enclaves of Lekki, Asake’s music blares from speakers, a constant reminder of the rich cultural tapestry that defines Nigeria’s music scene. His journey, marked by his unwavering commitment to his roots, is not just a personal one but a symbol of cultural pride for many Nigerians.
Asake’s message is clear: his music is an invitation to experience Yoruba culture in its purest form, and he is not about to change that for anyone. His global success, achieved without compromising his identity, serves as an inspiration for artists everywhere, reinforcing the idea that authenticity, above all, is what resonates with audiences worldwide.
