Adekunle Gold – ‘Obimo’ : A Love song with a Familiar Sound
Adekunle Gold’s Evolution in Afrobeats
Adekunle Gold is no stranger to the Nigerian music scene. From his Alte beginnings to his polished pop-Afrobeats persona, he has consistently reinvented his brand. His latest single, Obimo, stays within the pop-driven Afrobeats realm, steering clear of his Alte roots. While Adekunle has mastered the art of rebranding and evolving visually, his sound has seen only one major transformation. As he gears up for a new album, the question arises: Is he doing enough to keep his music fresh and engaging?
Lyrical Themes: Love, Devotion, and Familiar Territory
Lyrically, Obimo sticks to Adekunle Gold’s tried-and-true theme—unwavering love and monogamy. If there’s one thing he’s made clear in his discography, it’s that he is a one-woman man, and Obimo is another testament to that devotion. The lyrics are warm, heartfelt, and paint a vivid picture of a man hopelessly in love, emphasizing that his partner is irreplaceable. While the sincerity is undeniable, this messaging is far from new in his catalog. For long-time fans, it’s a comforting continuation of his signature love songs, but for others, it might feel like a safe, predictable choice rather than a bold step forward.
Production: Afrobeats Meets Amapiano—But Just Barely
The production on Obimo blends Afrobeats with subtle Amapiano elements, though the latter is more of an afterthought than a driving force. The track opens with deep, resonant Amapiano-inspired drums but quickly settles into a familiar ponpon beat, which takes center stage. While the beat is polished and rhythmic, it doesn’t push creative boundaries. It’s catchy, easy to vibe to, and well-produced—but it feels like something we’ve heard before. Adekunle Gold’s knack for crafting smooth, infectious tunes is evident, yet the lack of sonic experimentation makes Obimo feel like another safe addition rather than a game-changer.
The Need for a Fresh Sound
Adekunle Gold has proven time and again that he knows how to evolve his brand, but musically, he risks staying in a comfort zone. Obimo is enjoyable, but it raises the question: Is he playing it too safe? After delivering two and a half remarkable albums, it might be time for him to step outside his usual sonic palette. The music industry thrives on reinvention, and if an artist sticks too closely to one formula, their work can start to feel repetitive. Exploring new influences, working with unexpected collaborators, or delving into fresh themes could add the creative spark needed to elevate his upcoming album beyond just another collection of love songs.
Final Thoughts: A Love Song That Plays It Safe
Obimo is a solid, well-crafted love anthem that will resonate with Adekunle Gold’s fans, but it doesn’t break new ground. While his ability to capture emotion through music remains strong, the song feels like a continuation rather than an evolution. As he prepares for his next album, a bolder approach to sound and storytelling could help keep his music as exciting as his ever-evolving brand. For now, Obimo is a feel-good tune that does its job—but it leaves us wanting more.
