After much buzz and anticipation, Nigerian music heavyweights Olamide and Wizkid have reunited for a fresh collaboration titled Kai, released on April 29, 2025.
The single reintroduces the infectious Konto rhythm, a signature West African bounce, as both artists serenade a love interest while flaunting their wealth and lavish lifestyles.
The sultry, laid-back vibe of the track reminds fans of their earlier chemistry, yet offers a matured evolution of their artistry.
“It feels good to be back on a track with Starboy,” Olamide said in a release note. “We’ve come a long way from Omo To Shan and this one is special.”
The new single marks the latest chapter in a long-standing musical relationship that dates back to 2011, when the duo first collaborated on Omo To Shan, a song that helped define the early 2010s Afrobeats landscape.
Their musical synergy, forged over 14 years, remains one of the most celebrated in the Nigerian music scene.
Wizkid, in a brief social media post, described the song as “vibes for the summer,” adding, “Olamide is my brother, and anytime we link up, it’s magic.”
Kai also serves as the first single off Olamide’s newly announced self-titled album, a surprise twist in the rapper’s previously stated plans.
Originally, fans were expecting the second volume of his EP series Ikigai, a Japanese word meaning “a reason to live.” The first installment, released in 2024, featured tracks like Metaverse, Habibi, and Uptown Disco featuring Asake and Fireboy, and was widely praised for its experimental sounds and philosophical undertone.
The upcoming album, set for release on June 3, 2025, will be Olamide’s 11th solo project—a milestone that underscores his enduring influence in the industry.
Speaking on the shift from an EP to a full album, Olamide explained, “There’s too much I want to say and too much music in me to limit it to an EP.
This album is a celebration of where I’ve been, where I am, and where I’m going.” The rapper hinted that the project would blend street sounds with global influences, a testament to his adaptive creativity over the years.
Olamide’s legacy is deeply rooted in not only his discography but also his impact as a mentor and label executive.
Through his YBNL Nation label, he has nurtured some of Afrobeats’ brightest stars, including Adekunle Gold, Lil Kesh, Fireboy DML, and Asake.
As he gears up to release his self-titled album, Olamide remains a towering figure in Nigerian music—both as a cultural icon and a visionary leader.
“I’ve always believed in pushing the culture forward,” he said. “This album is just another step in that journey.”
