Nigerian singer-songwriter Deobi has linked up with Sierra Leonean artist Incredible JJ on “Nakupenda,” a cross-border Afrobeats single from Shemen Music.
The title is Swahili for I love you, and Nigerian acts have used it before. Iyanya cut one with Diamond Platnumz, while Chike made his with Ric Hassani. So Deobi steps into a familiar title with his own delivery.
Incredible JJ adds a punchy rap performance, so the record leans toward street-hop. The sound sits in Afro-fusion, with gyration energy and street-hop edges. Sierra Leone and Nigeria meet on one record, so each artist gets room for their own style.
Nigerian producer Rappnem_beatż, also known as Rappnem Drummer, handled production. Gran P/Mix Rhythm handled co-production and mixing. Deobi, also known as Deobi Okoro, put out “Everyday Honey” before this single. “All Over You” also has a remix with BoyPee, an Afro-soul and Afro-pop act. TrendyBeatz also gave that song a Song of the Day slot.
Is “Nakupenda” already on your playlist? Drop your verdict in the comments below.
