Fresh off his recent nomination at the 67th Grammy Awards for Best African Music Performance, Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Asake has surprised fans with a new single titled Military.
The release comes on the heels of his much-talked-about Grammy appearance, where he turned heads in a full military camouflage two-piece. His bold fashion choice was not just a style statement but also an extension of his persona—one that embraces defiance and individuality. With Military, Asake continues to assert his artistic independence, using music to respond to critics and reaffirm his creative freedom.
During his red carpet interviews at the Grammys, Asake made it clear that his outfit choice was a reflection of his personal mantra: doing whatever he wants. This sentiment is deeply embedded in Military, a track that serves as both a defiant response to his critics and an assertion of his authenticity.
For a while now, Asake has faced scrutiny for exclusively using Yoruba in his lyrics, with some questioning his command of the English language. However, in this latest release, he addresses the naysayers directly, making it clear that he is unbothered by their opinions. Through his signature blend of sing-rapping in Yoruba, he dismisses the criticism and boldly states that speaking English doesn’t resonate with him.
Beyond addressing linguistic criticisms, Military is also a statement of dominance and self-assurance. Sampling 2Pac’s classic Do For Love, Asake confidently declares his financial superiority over his peers, sending a message that his success is undeniable.
The chest-thumping track sees him revel in his achievements, reminding listeners that he has carved a unique lane for himself in the industry. His braggadocious lyrics reflect the larger-than-life persona he has cultivated, one that thrives on breaking norms and setting his own standards.
The song also sees Asake paying homage to his former YBNL label boss, Olamide Baddo, who played a crucial role in launching his career. Even as he acknowledges his musical lineage, he reiterates his autonomy, teasing the possibility of a surprise album drop.
With Military, Asake reinforces his desire to operate on his own terms, refusing to be boxed in by industry expectations. His unpredictable nature and penchant for unconventional rollouts make every move he makes intriguing, leaving fans constantly speculating about what’s next.
Currently available only on Audiomack, Military marks Asake’s first release of 2025, albeit in an understated fashion. The unexpected drop aligns with his pattern of making bold artistic choices while keeping audiences on their toes.
Earlier in the year, he teased two unreleased songs, signaling his intent to continue his remarkable mainstream streak. Having reached new heights in 2024 with the release of his third studio album, Lungu Boy, Asake appears poised to maintain his grip on the charts while staying true to his unfiltered, unapologetic artistry.
