Rhythm and Reason: A Deep Dive into N’naya’s Debut Album
N’naya’s debut album, Rhythm and Reason, to be released 20 September is a captivating exploration of love, life, and the struggles of a young man caught between the world of academia and the captivating energy of the music scene.
N’naya, born Cletus Famous Nwankwo, is a UK-based Nigerian artist who juggles academia and music. Prior to doing music professionally, Nnaya boasts impressive academic records, with a master's and PhD from the UK at Keele University and University of Leicester, respectively. His vibrant soul and captivating melodies are armed with a powerful voice. He weaves stories of love, resilience, and the complexities of the human experience into his music.
N'naya's sounds draw inspiration from rich influences, blending Afrobeat's pulsating rhythms with the soulful inflexions of R&B and Pop and the deep connection to everyday life in society embodied in Highlife music. His music can resonate with a universal heartbeat, connecting listeners across borders and cultures.
Rhythm and Reason infuses his Afrobeats and rhythmic Pop with his rich Nigerian heritage.
This is evident throughout the album, particularly in the opening track “Angelema.” Here, N’naya showers his love interest with sweet nothings. The album isn’t all love songs though. N’naya tackles vulnerability and heartbreak in “Blind in Love” and “Always Magic.” In “Blind in Love” he reflects on a past love that left him heartbroken, vowing to avoid such pitfalls in the future. “Always Magic” explores the challenges of a fading relationship, leaving the listener with a sense of longing and hope for reconciliation. N’naya isn’t afraid to showcase his lighter side. Tracks like “Spirit is Rising” and “Not Bill Gates” are bursts of humor and celebration. “Spirit is Rising” is a party anthem describing his excitement to travel from London to Leicester to meet his girlfriend. “Not Bill Gates” is a playful response to a materialistic girlfriend’s demands, cleverly referencing Nigerian billionaires Bill Gates and Dangote.
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Rhythm and Reason Album's Tracklist
- Angelema
- Lolo Universe
- Hold on So Tight
- Winner
- Popular
- Spirit is Rising
- Not Bill Gates
- Always Magic
- Blind in Love
Angelema and Lolo Universe: Love Songs with a Nigerian Twist
The album opens with “Angelema,” a love song dedicated to a captivating woman. N’naya showers his affection using an endearing. He compares his love to famous figures like Michael Jackson and footballers like Drogba, Okocha, Mo Salah emphasizing her irreplaceable place in his life. Angelema has been aired in the BBC Radio and praised by the BBC Music Introducing Team. Angelema got everyone in the BBC Radio building moving on when it was aired on 13 July 2024.
The following track, “Lolo Universe,” continues the theme of love with a soulful melody. N’naya portrays his woman as his “guardian angel” and the “apple of his eyes.” He uses Yoruba phrases like “Ekuro lalabaku ewa” to emphasize his sincerity.
Party Time with N’naya
N’naya switches gears with “Spirit is Rising,” a high-energy party anthem. He describes the excitement of the weekend, traveling from London to Leicester to meet his girl. The song is filled with vivid details and Nigerian slang, creating an infectious club atmosphere.
Vulnerability and Strength
N’naya showcases his vulnerability in “Hold On So Tight.” He sings about a woman so beautiful she makes him “scream.” Despite his adoration, he pleads to hold on tight to their love, hinting at potential challenges.
The vulnerability continues in “Blind in Love.” N’naya reflects on a past love that left him heartbroken. He refuses to be “lost in love” again, showcasing a newfound strength.
Finding Love and Celebrating Success
The album takes a positive turn with “Winner.” N’naya celebrates finding his soulmate and declares their love a victory. The song is full of celebratory chants and is sure to get you moving.
“Popular” offers a social commentary. N’naya explores the fleeting nature of fame and the challenges that come with newfound popularity.
The Hustler’s Life
N’naya switches gears again with “Not Bill Gates.” This song is a humorous take on a young hustler’s struggles. He playfully addresses the demands of a materialistic girlfriend, clarifying that he’s “not Bill Gates” and cannot fulfill her extravagant desires.
Always Magic: A Bittersweet Ending
The album closes with the melancholic “Always Magic.” N’naya reflects on a failing relationship, wondering if they can recapture the magic of their love. The song leaves the listener with a sense of longing and hope for reconciliation.
Overall, Rhythm and Reason is a well-rounded debut album that showcases N’naya’s musicality and songwriting skills. It’s a blend of love songs, party anthems, and introspective ballads that will stay with you long after the last track ends.
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