A Much-Needed Reunion in West African Music
Over the past few years, the relationship between the Nigerian and Ghanaian music industries has been somewhat strained. At the heart of this divide was Ghana’s push to enforce an 80% local content rule on their media platforms, a move that unintentionally distanced key Ghanaian artists from their Nigerian audience. Among those caught in this unintended fallout was Black Sherif, a rising star whose meteoric success had previously been fueled by massive support from Nigeria’s music-consuming population. However, his perceived alignment with the policy led to a quiet boycott of his music in Nigeria, affecting his reach and reception. Now, with the release of So It Goes featuring Nigerian heavyweight Fireboy DML, Black Sherif seems to be making an intentional move to reconnect with the audience that once made him a global star.
A Return to Form: The Sound of ‘So It Goes’
Black Sherif sticks to his signature style with So It Goes—a raw, melodic, and deeply introspective trap-infused record. The song embodies his well-known storytelling approach, weaving tales of struggle, survival, and relentless ambition. Fireboy DML’s feature adds a layer of smoothness, balancing Sherif’s grittier delivery with his signature melodic vocals.
The production is minimal yet effective, driven by haunting synths, rolling hi-hats, and bass-heavy 808s that create a cinematic feel. It’s the kind of beat that allows both artists to express their emotions without unnecessary embellishments. The result is a record that has the potential to become a street anthem, resonating with young Africans chasing success against all odds.
Lyrics Breakdown: Hustle, Survival, and Gratitude
The song delves into themes of hard work and perseverance, with Black Sherif reflecting on the continuous grind necessary to achieve success. He describes the struggles of moving from place to place, chasing opportunities, and seeking a better life, emphasizing that his background offered little room for rest or comfort. His journey has been filled with challenges, but he remains committed to pushing forward.
A significant part of the song highlights the emotional weight of ambition. There’s an acknowledgment of past hardships, with references to feelings of exhaustion and emotional strain. However, the presence of someone special serves as a motivator, rekindling his passion and reminding him why he continues to push through adversity.
The chorus reinforces the idea that life is an unpredictable journey, with ups and downs being inevitable. It underscores the solitary nature of the hustle, where determination and resilience are essential to success. The focus remains on striving for a better future while recognizing the struggles that come with it.
Fireboy DML’s verse shifts the perspective slightly by introducing themes of luxury and love. He envisions a world of comfort and success, where he can provide for a loved one and take them to exotic locations. However, there’s also a warning about external influences and distractions that could affect their relationship, implying that fame and fortune come with their own set of challenges.
The song ends with a plea to be remembered by those who were there during difficult times. There’s a sense of vulnerability in this sentiment, as the artists reflect on how success can sometimes lead to forgotten relationships. The underlying message is clear: as they ascend in their careers, they hope not to be forgotten by those who stood by them during their struggles.
The Bigger Picture: Rebuilding Bridges
Beyond its musicality, this record could mark the beginning of a new chapter for Black Sherif in the Nigerian market. By collaborating with Fireboy DML—one of Nigeria’s biggest contemporary exports—Sherif is signaling his willingness to reconnect with the Nigerian audience. However, the success of this move depends not just on the quality of the song but also on the level of investment he’s willing to put into promotions and industry relationships.
For fans of both artists, So It Goes is a powerful reminder of why cross-border collaborations in Afrobeats matter. When Ghana and Nigeria unite musically, the entire African music scene benefits. This song has the potential to be more than just another hit—it could be a cultural reset.
Final Verdict
So It Goes is a well-crafted track that blends Black Sherif’s signature storytelling with Fireboy DML’s melodic prowess. The song stands as a testament to perseverance, resilience, and the unwavering grind for success. Whether or not it becomes a mainstream anthem will depend on how much effort is put into pushing it beyond Ghana’s borders. If this record is any indication, Black Sherif is ready to reclaim his place in the broader Afrobeats scene—and this time, he’s bringing Fireboy DML along for the ride.
Black Sherif & Fireboy DML Mend Ghana-Nigeria Music Ties with ‘So It Goes’
