After years of low visibility in the music scene, Reekado Banks reintroduces himself with The Game Needs You — a 15-track statement album that reaffirms his position as one of Afrobeats’ most refined voices. Once a frontline artist under Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records, Reekado (now an independent act) proves with this project that time away from the limelight didn’t dull his creativity — it sharpened it.
Unlike the recently released Captain by Bnxn, which felt uninspired and monotone, The Game Needs You bursts with variety, energy, and intentionality. This isn’t an artist chasing trends — it’s a musician fully aware of his powers, crafting music that serves many moods while remaining cohesive in delivery. Reekado takes us to church, the club, the streets, and into his soul, all without skipping a beat.
A DJ-Style Experience Without the Skips
What makes The Game Needs You special is how it mimics a well-curated party set. The album doesn’t rely on a fixed lyrical theme or sonic template like Joeboy’s Viva Lavida, but instead thrives in diversity. Yet, thanks to Reekado’s vocal consistency and thoughtful transitions, it never feels like a playlist of singles. It’s a ride — and Reekado is the DJ, making sure no track feels out of place.
Standout Tracks That Hit Different
“Oroma” ft. Terry Apala is one of the most culturally grounded tracks on the album. It fuses Fuji with Hip-Hop and orchestral pads, thanks to P. Prime’s expert production. The talking drums and long drums carry the spirit of Yoruba parties, while Reekado and Terry’s delivery invite listeners to dance with reckless abandon.
“Maami” is a global-sounding House/EDM/Amapiano hybrid, stripped of log drums but boosted by spiritual resonance. The track serves as a tribute to his mother’s prayers, which he credits for his protection from hidden enemies. With its layered sound and tempo, it’s a summer DJ’s dream — fluid, dramatic, and memorable.
“Dangerous” slows things down with sleek contemporary Afrobeats. It’s a love song laced with warnings — he’s in deep, but he knows the risk. Subtle and smooth, this is the kind of song that quietly becomes a fan favorite. On “Woman” featuring Phyno, Reekado showcases emotional growth, celebrating the woman who brought change and peace to his chaotic life.
Then there’s “December,” the spiritual climax of the album. Produced by Don Jazzy, this track feels like a homage to the vintage Nigerian pop of the 80s. Think Felix Liberty, but reimagined for today’s Afrobeats palate. With a clear song structure — verse, pre-chorus, chorus — and romantic lyrics about loving and spoiling a partner all year round, this is a sure December hit waiting for a visual rollout.
“2WFL (Too Wise For Lies)” ft. Winny blends Amapiano bounce with Middle Eastern vocal inflections. Winny delivers with haunting depth, while Reekado drops clever football metaphors to describe his growth, survival instincts, and awareness of the industry’s snakes. The result is a hybrid jam that’s both poetic and dance-ready.
Independence, But No Isolation
Despite featuring big names like Phyno, Mayorkun, Lil Kesh, Skiibii, and more, Reekado Banks never gets overshadowed. His vocals, songwriting, and presence remain at the forefront. Each guest fits neatly into his universe rather than pulling him into theirs. That’s a mark of strong artistry.
Final Thoughts: Reclaiming Greatness
The Game Needs You is more than an album title — it’s a statement of purpose. Reekado Banks has returned not just to participate but to dominate. His versatility, lyrical depth, and unbothered independence make this one of the strongest Afrobeats albums of 2025 so far.
While younger Mavin talents like Rema are taking Afrobeats global, Reekado is holding the genre down at its root — reminding everyone why he was once the crown jewel of Don Jazzy’s empire.
In a year already stacked with great albums from Qing Madi and Joeboy, The Game Needs You stands tall, refusing to be ignored.
