Asake, the sensational hitmaker, has officially kicked off his 2025 music journey with the release of his latest single, Why Love.
The highly anticipated song arrives amid much fanfare, as Asake remains one of the most talked-about artists in the Nigerian music scene. Earlier in the year, he teased the track in a snippet that quickly gained traction online.
However, it wasn’t just the song that had fans buzzing—his newly unveiled face tattoos also sparked intense reactions. While some admirers found his fresh ink stylish and expressive, others considered the transformation unsettling.
Nevertheless, Asake, known for his bold artistic choices, remained unfazed by the divided opinions, further cementing his reputation as an artist who thrives on controversy and reinvention.
The release of Why Love follows closely behind his unexpected drop, Military, a track that signaled what Asake described as his “military era”—a phase where he intends to make music solely on his own terms.
This declaration of artistic independence was met with mixed reactions, with some fans applauding his rebellious streak while others questioned the direction he was taking.
Yet, if Military was a bold proclamation, Why Love serves as its poetic counterpart—addressing both his supporters and critics through introspective lyricism and the signature sound that has made him a dominant force in Afrobeats.
The song effortlessly blends deep emotions with a pulsating beat, embodying Asake’s unique ability to turn personal musings into club anthems.
Why Love arrives at a significant moment in Asake’s career. Having recently attended the 2025 Grammy Awards, where he made an impression with his presence, the single feels like a response to ongoing debates surrounding his artistry.
One of the recurring criticisms Asake faces is his unwavering commitment to singing predominantly in Yoruba, a choice that some argue limits his global reach.
However, Why Love sees the singer confidently pushing back against this notion, reaffirming his dedication to his roots while reminding listeners that authenticity is his greatest strength.
Beyond addressing detractors, the song also carries a subtle hint at what might come next, as Asake teasingly suggests he could drop a surprise album—a move that would undoubtedly shake up the industry.
Musically, Why Love stays true to the sonic elements that have defined Asake’s career, but with an added layer of evolution.
The song is heavily infused with Amapiano log drums, a sound that has become synonymous with his recent works, yet it also features an unmistakable house music influence.
This fusion creates a mid-tempo groove reminiscent of his acclaimed third album, showcasing his ability to maintain familiarity while introducing fresh elements.
Asake’s vocal delivery remains as captivating as ever, effortlessly riding the beat with the rhythmic cadence that has made his style instantly recognizable.
Notably, this release marks a major milestone—it is his first single since parting ways with his former label, YBNL, signaling a new chapter in his artistic journey.
Underlining this new era is Asake’s latest venture, Giran Republic, the independent imprint under which he has now chosen to release his music. But Giran Republic isn’t just a music label—it also serves as the foundation for his growing entrepreneurial ambitions.
In a move that caught many by surprise, Asake recently expanded his business portfolio by launching a marijuana retail enterprise in California, a bold step that further reflects his unorthodox approach to success.
His ability to balance music with business ventures speaks to his larger-than-life persona, positioning him as not just a musician but also a cultural disruptor. With Why Love, Asake solidifies his independence, proving that he is fully in control of his destiny.
Ultimately, Why Love is more than just a song—it is a defining statement in Asake’s career. It officially confirms his departure from YBNL and signals his readiness to navigate the industry on his own terms.
As the first release in what is expected to be another eventful year, the song sets the stage for whatever surprises Asake has in store. Given his track record of consistency—three albums in three years—fans can expect nothing short of an exhilarating ride.
Whether through music, business, or personal reinvention, Asake continues to command attention, shaping trends while staying true to his essence. If Why Love is anything to go by, 2025 is already looking like another dominant year for the hitmaker.
