"Only one night/Can’t stay, I’ll be gone by tomorrow"—the opening lines of Obongjayar's latest single, "Sweet Danger," encapsulate the fleeting, tumultuous nature that his new music embodies. This genre-defying artist is on the verge of releasing his highly anticipated second studio album, Paradise Now, which promises to showcase his evolution as a musician.
Having previously collaborated with notable artists like Little Simz and Fred Again and weaving intricate genres of electronic, soul, pop, and Afrobeat, Obongjayar has emerged as a distinct voice in the music industry. With Paradise Now set to release on May 30, the new single gives fans and followers a thrilling taste of what to expect.
The music video for "Sweet Danger" blends an eclectic assortment of themes ranging from a Spaghetti Western aesthetic to Afrobeat nostalgia. Shot predominantly in a motel, the scenes are imbued with a sense of danger and excitement, perfectly complementing the rebellious lyrics.
In one striking moment, Obongjayar engages with a mechanical bull—a symbol of wildness—while declaring his identity as a "wild boy" who embraces trouble. The imagery signifies his willingness to delve into darker themes, a stark contrast to the more optimistic tones he has previously explored. As he states, "Baby, did you not know I’m a singer?/I’m a wild boy," he solidifies his position as an artist unafraid to explore the complexities of human emotion and identity.
Obongjayar’s artistic journey has been enriched by his collaborations with a diverse range of artists and producers. His work history includes notable names such as Fred Again and Danny Brown, along with unique collaborations that showcase his flexibility across genres. For the upcoming album, he has partnered with celebrated producers Kwes Darko, known for his work with Pa Salieu, and Yeti Beats, who has produced tracks for Doja Cat.
Little Simz is the sole feature on the Paradise Now tracklist, which consists of 15 songs that embrace multiple musical styles. This collaboration signals a shared understanding of boundary-pushing artistry that resonates deeply within their respective bodies of work.
Obongjayar’s style, which has been described as a vibrant dance between a variety of genres, is evident in the album’s promotional material. His ability to shift seamlessly between different musical identities allows for a refreshing take on contemporary music. Paradise Now, featuring tracks like "It’s Time," "Sweet Danger," and "Just My Luck," showcases his thoughtful incorporation of varied musical elements while addressing nuanced themes of identity, conflict, and personal evolution.
The development and promotion of Paradise Now have been characterized by intimate and immersive experiences, such as the intimate party series held over the summer at London’s Ormside Projects. This event featured performances from artists like Little Simz and Pa Salieu, creating an intimate atmosphere for fans to connect with Obongjayar's evolving musical landscape. He plans to continue this momentum with another party series next month, inviting fans to share in the journey leading up to the album release.
As Paradise Now gears up for its debut, Obongjayar is also preparing to embark on a U.K. and European tour in the fall. This tour will include major cities such as Berlin, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Paris, culminating in what promises to be a landmark performance at London's O2 Kentish Town Forum.
With pre-sale tickets available starting on April 8 and general sales launching on April 11, anticipation is already building among fans, marking an essential milestone in his burgeoning career.
Obongjayar’s artistry is not merely about sound; it’s an evolving narrative of personal and cultural expression. As Paradise Now approaches its release date, the artist is well-positioned to make a significant impact on the music landscape. With "Sweet Danger" serving as a compelling introduction to his forthcoming work, fans, and critics alike are keenly awaiting the contributions he will continue to make to the genres he so passionately navigates.
Obongjayar is a British-Nigerian artist known for his innovative blend of genres, including electronic, soul, pop, and Afrobeat. He has collaborated with various prominent musicians, contributing to his reputation as a versatile performer.
Obongjayar's new album, Paradise Now, is scheduled for release on May 30, 2025.
"Sweet Danger" showcases Obongjayar's unique blend of styles, featuring elements reminiscent of Spaghetti Westerns and Afrobeat. The accompanying video highlights themes of rebellion and adventure.
Yes, Obongjayar plans to embark on a tour across the U.K. and Europe in the fall of 2025, with tickets going on sale soon.
Paradise Now features 15 songs, including a collaboration with Little Simz on the track "Talk Olympics."
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