Album Review: Superstar by Wizkid

Wizkid’s debut album, Superstar, revolutionised the global music scene with its infectious Afrobeat sounds, cementing the Nigerian artist’s position as a major player. Released in 2011, this album propelled Wizkid to international stardom and sparked the Afrobeat revolution. Superstar is a remarkable showcase of Wizkid’s talent and his ability to create genre-defining music.

From start to finish, Superstar takes listeners on a captivating sonic journey with energetic beats and catchy melodies. Wizkid’s smooth and melodic voice adds charm and authenticity, while his lyrical prowess shines through in songs about love, relationships, and life’s joyful moments.

The album seamlessly blends Afrobeat, R&B, and pop influences, resulting in a refreshing and modern sound.

Tracks like Holla at Your Boy and Pakurumo exemplify Wizkid’s knack for crafting infectious hooks. The production is top-notch, fusing traditional African rhythms, contemporary beats, and memorable melodies that compel listeners to move to the music.

Collaborations on the album are carefully curated, showcasing Wizkid’s versatility in working with established and emerging artists. The standout track Ojuelegba features Drake and Skepta, bridging international stars and highlighting Afrobeat’s global appeal. Other collaborations with Nigerian artists add depth and variety to the album.

Superstar not only offers irresistible beats but also provides glimpses into Wizkid’s personal experiences and emotions. Tracks like Don’t Dull display his swagger, while For Me reveals his vulnerability. This blend of introspection and celebration creates a well-rounded listening experience, forging a deeper connection between Wizkid and his audience.

More than an album, Superstar represents a cultural shift and celebrates African music on a global scale.

Wizkid’s ability to fuse traditional Nigerian sounds with contemporary influences introduced Afrobeat to a wider audience, shaping mainstream music. This album showcases Wizkid’s pioneering spirit and his influence on the modern music landscape.

In conclusion, Superstar is a groundbreaking album that propelled Wizkid to superstardom and established him as an Afrobeat icon. With its infectious beats, catchy hooks, and charismatic delivery, the album exemplifies Wizkid’s musical talent and cross-cultural appeal. Superstar remains a timeless body of work, capturing the essence of Afrobeat and showcasing the global allure of African music. It is a must-listen for anyone seeking the vibrant sounds and infectious energy of Wizkid’s music.

Book Review: Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe

Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart is a groundbreaking novel that explores African society during colonialism. Published in 1958, this literary masterpiece introduced Achebe to the world and paved the way for African literature. Through rich storytelling and profound cultural insights, Things Fall Apart remains a significant work.

Set in 19th-century Nigeria, the novel transports us to the Igbo village of Umuofia, capturing the life and traditions before European colonisation. At the core is Okonkwo, a respected warrior whose life embodies the tensions between tradition and change. Achebe skillfully weaves a tale of personal struggle, societal dynamics, and the clash of cultures, exploring identity, masculinity, and imperialism’s consequences.

Achebe authentically portrays Igbo culture, immersing readers in customs, religion, and social structures. His evocative prose captures Igbo traditions, fostering empathy for the characters’ experiences. Character development is exceptional.

Okonkwo’s transformation showcases the clash of personal aspirations and a changing world. Supporting characters like Unoka and Obierika add depth to the narrative.

Achebe addresses colonialism, revealing its devastating impact on African societies. The arrival of missionaries disrupts social order, challenging the Igbo way of life. Achebe critiques imperialism while recognising internal conflicts within African societies.

Things Fall Apart examines the universal human experience, transcending cultural boundaries. Achebe’s exploration of power, tradition, and resilience offers insight into the human condition and societal transformation.

In conclusion, Things Fall Apart captivates readers with powerful storytelling and poignant social commentary. Achebe’s prose and depiction of cultural clash make this novel essential. It stands as a testament to literature’s power in fostering empathy and critiquing colonialism’s destructive forces.

Movie Review: Parasite (2019)

Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite is a breathtaking cinematic masterpiece that seamlessly blends genres, delivering a thought-provoking and socially relevant experience. Released in 2019, this South Korean film garnered widespread critical acclaim and made history as the first-ever Korean film to win the esteemed Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. With its brilliant storytelling, impeccable performances, and astute social commentary, Parasite stands as a tour de force in the world of cinema.

Set in a dingy semi-basement apartment, the film follows the Kim family’s struggle for survival amidst class division. Their fortuitous infiltration into the lives of the wealthy Park family leads to a web of deception and tension, culminating in unexpected and dark consequences. Bong Joon-ho’s expert direction crafts a narrative that effortlessly shifts from dark comedy to psychological thriller, gripping audiences throughout. Meticulously crafted scenes and weighty dialogue contribute to the film’s flawless pacing and reveal the complex dynamics between the families.

The performances in Parasite are extraordinary, with Song Kang-ho leading the ensemble cast as the Kim family’s patriarch. Each actor captures their characters’ nuances with precision, and the palpable chemistry among them enhances the authenticity of their intricate relationships.

What sets Parasite apart is its incisive social commentary on inequality, greed, and the struggle for survival. Bong Joon-ho skillfully exposes the flaws of a deeply divided society, prompting viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about class privilege and societal structures.

In conclusion, Parasite is an exceptional film that leaves a lasting impact. Bong Joon-ho’s masterful direction, coupled with outstanding performances and poignant social commentary, makes it a must-watch for cinephiles worldwide. With its exploration of class, wealth, and the human condition, Parasite transcends language and cultural barriers, resonating universally. Prepare to be enthralled, challenged, and in awe of this cinematic triumph.

Kehindé Fagbule
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Self-identifies as a middle child between millennials and the gen Z, began writing as a 14 year-old. Born and raised in Lagos where he would go on to obtain a degree in the University of Lagos, he mainly draws inspiration from societal issues and the ills within. His "live and let live" mantra shapes his thought process as he writes about lifestyle from a place of empathy and emotional intelligence. When he is not writing, he is very invested in football and sociopolitical commentary on social media.