Nigerian Afrobeat artist Ahmed Ololade, widely known as Asake, recently discussed his preference for using Yoruba in his music. According to Drivetvnews, during an Instagram Live session, a fan inquired why Asake consistently sings in Yoruba, his native tongue.
Asake explained that while he is capable of singing in English, he feels more at ease performing in Yoruba. He also noted that those who do not appreciate his Yoruba lyrics should stop listening to his music. He stated: “I am more comfortable singing in Yoruba, it’s not that I can’t sing in English. If you mess with me, mess with me in my Yoruba. If not, then don’t.”
In related news, Michael Ajereh, known as Don Jazzy and CEO of Mavin Records, has shared his reasons for scheduling his artists’ releases to avoid coinciding with those of other major artists like Wizkid and Asake. Drivetvnews reports that Mavin Records boasts a roster including Rema, Ayra Starr, Crayon, Magixx, Boy Spyce, Johnny Drille, and Lifesize Teddy.
In an interview on Nigerian YouTuber Fisayo Fosudo’s podcast, Don Jazzy explained that releasing music on the same day as Wizkid or Asake would be detrimental and lead to a delay in his artists’ project releases.