One of Nigeria's most prominent street pop voices, Zinoleesky, has unveiled the official video to his latest single, "AYAMASE." This sizzling hot track is made even better by rising South London rap titan Ms Banks. Courtesy of the ever-reliable Niphkeys, who have churned out hits with everyone from Rema and Stormzy to Asake, this song is a spicy metaphor for modern love, packaged in rhythm, attitude, and cultural pride.
"AYAMASE" is a song about longing, loyalty, and being genuine. Zinoleesky assumes a much more vulnerable position than we're used to, flat-out wearing his heart on his sleeves with melodic sincerity. He wants her, all of her, and he has no qualms in saying so. But it's not your standard one-sided serenade. In slides, Ms Banks, cool, stylish, and sharp, flips the script with a verse that's as empowering as it is down-to-earth. She answers his call and also clarifies she's not here just to be chased with no value being matched. Together, the dual perspectives capture the tender and tough in relationships. At heart, it ultimately becomes an affirming, earnest, richly distinct meditation on what and who we choose.
"AYAMASE" visuals were shot and directed by Mediakid and creatively directed by Dir. Ley deepens that narrative. Shot in the heart of Lagos, the sun-dappled streets teem with color and tension. Two crews go head to head, Zinoleesky with his dudes, Ms Banks with her girls, not in animosity but in a tussle of presence and pride. The quiet stalemate then stands in for the give-and-take of love itself. And like the Yoruba dish the song is named after, "AYAMASE" simmers with flavor, spice, and depth. This is a statement of culture draped in street realism and romantic honesty. On "AYAMASE," Zinoleesky and Ms Banks give us something tangible, something piquant that lingers long.
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