BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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Few artists have mastered the art of weaving street-hop sensibilities with deep introspection quite like Seyi Vibez. His latest EP, Children of Africa, released yesterday, February 21, 2025, marks a defining moment in his career–his first major project since parting ways with Dapper Music and going independent under No Seyi No Vibez (NSNV) Inc., in partnership with EMPIRE. In just one day, the EP amassed 2.24 million streams on NG Spotify, becoming the biggest opening day for an EP and surpassing Wizkid’s S2. Clearly, Seyi Vibez is moving with intention, and this project cements his place as a dominant force in the Nigerian music industry.
Produced by the brilliant Semzi, Mario Kart sets the tone for the EP with a calm yet bouncy vibe. Seyi Vibez acknowledges God as the driving force behind his rapid ascent, belting out, “everything lowo Olorun lo wa… running running like Mario Kart…” The track is layered with subtle but infectious melodies, as he boasts of his six-figure earnings, ability to shut down concerts, and even likens himself to Travis Scott, calling himself “the highest in the room.” It’s a confident, exhilarating opener that lays bare his gratitude and self-assurance.
The energy continues on Macho, where Seyi Vibez embraces his success with unwavering swagger. Layering his lyrics over aggressive log drum patterns and an ominous, yet party-ready beat sculpted by Larrylanes, he paints a picture of opulence–shiny diamonds, Lamborghinis, and a lifestyle most can only dream of. American rapper NLE Choppa joins in, bringing an extra layer of intensity with his fiery rap delivery, seamlessly blending into the Afro-fusion landscape. This track is pure flex energy, and its cross-continental collaboration elevates it even further.
Larrylanes stays in his bag on Shaolin, delivering a sonically intricate production filled with hard-hitting drum beats and whistly instrumentals reminiscent of classic 90s Japanese action films. The spiritual undertone in the melody combined with Seyi’s rapid-fire, chant-like delivery–drawing comparison to Rema’s energy on Ozeba–makes it impossible to resist. It’s one of those tracks where the words might escape you, but the energy is undeniable. Already, Shaolin is dominating dance floors and playlists, proving itself as the ultimate gbedu.
Closing out the EP is Happy Song, an ethereal masterpiece brimming with warmth and simplicity. The track kicks off with a mellifluous intro by back up vocalists, setting the stage for Seyi’s soulful delivery. The young voices chanting the chorus in the background, “H-A-P-P-Y, we are happy, happy people we are,” feel nostalgic, like the childhood school rhyme reimagined for a new generation. Semzi’s production shines once more, infusing the track with intricate yet lighthearted sound shifts. The result? A song that exudes pure bliss and leaves listeners on a high note.
Children of Africa is not just an EP; it is a statement. It blends sonic innovation with relatable storytelling, reinforcing Seyi Vibez’s standing as one of Nigeria’s most compelling voices. His new platinum blonde hair, zig-zag plaits, and colorful grills signify a rebirth, and this project is a testament to his evolution. Charting at No.1 on Apple Music Nigeria within six hours and setting streaming records, the EP is already making history.
Seyi Vibez has once again proven that his music transcends trends-it resonates, uplifts, and dominates. Children of Africa is a victory lap, and with each track, he reminds us why he remains the people’s champion.
