After a decade of creative separation, Adekunle Gold has finally teamed up with his former label boss, Olamide, for the symbolic single, Formation. The song marks a historic full-circle moment for both artists. Adekunle Gold, who served as the graphic designer for the YBNL logo before finding stardom with Sade, has not appeared on a song with Olamide since his exit from the label in 2016. Formation attests to a brotherhood that has survived the evolution of their respective sounds.
Formation is excellent in sonic contrast. Adekunle Gold’s refined, Tequila Ever After era vocals provide a lush, melodic foundation that reflects his growth into a pop star. In contrast, Olamide delivers a gritty, street-wise verse that anchors the song in the core energy of Lagos. The track balances sophisticated production with a rhythmic drive that honours their shared YBNL roots while proving how far they have both travelled creatively.
Lyrically, the song touches on resilience, unity, and the "formation" of a legacy. Adekunle Gold’s emotional announcement of the track highlighted the 2014 moment when Olamide first believed in his voice, and that gratitude is palpable in every harmony. It is a song that feels celebratory rather than competitive, exhibiting two industry titans who no longer have anything to prove, only things to share.
Distributed under Def Jam, Formation has already ignited social media, with fans praising both artists for finally delivering a collaboration a decade in the making. It is a defining record for 2026, proving that in the fast-moving world of Afrobeats, true bonds remain the strongest foundation for a hit.
Listen to Formation here.
