Cruel Santino, one of the most stellar artists in Nigeria’s alté music scene, has sparked massive excitement by teasing a new track that samples Wande Coal’s iconic song, “Se Ope”. Known for his boundary-pushing approach to music, this announcement hints at yet another sonic masterpiece in the making.
Sampling a Wande Coal classic is no small feat. “Se Ope”, a standout track from Wande’s “Mushin 2 Mo’Hits” era, is a timeless gem that represents the golden age of Nigerian Afropop. For Cruel Santino, who thrives on blending nostalgic elements with futuristic production, the choice of this sample underscores his ability to weave familiar sounds into his avant-garde style.
While 2024 was a quiet year for Santi in terms of music, it has only served to increase the hunger of his fans for some new music and clearly, he is set to deliver. This teaser reflects his knack for sonar fusion, pairing his distinct alté sound with the soulful underpinnings of Wande Coal’s legendary track.
The alté icon’s decision to sample “Se Ope” also speaks to his appreciation for Nigerian musical heritage, bridging the gap between the old and the new.
As anticipation builds, Cruel Santino’s ability to reimagine a Nigerian classic is poised to further solidify his place as one of the country’s most innovative artists. While no release date has yet been revealed, one thing is certain: this beauty will be totally worth the wait.