Terry Apala has continued to redefine the landscape of Nigerian music and with his latest EP, Black & White, released on January 31, 2025 it’s clear that he’s far from done. The seven-track project is a masterful blend of Apala–a Yoruba-rooted traditional music genre–and the contemporary sounds of Afrobeats, seamlessly blended in a beautiful manner that highlights the beauty of uniqueness in creativity. Known for his husky vocals and innovative approach, Terry Apala uses this EP to showcase his versatility, bridging the past and present with an effortlessly smooth delivery.
The project opens with “Story,” a deeply introspective track that sets the tone for the journey ahead. As an artist who has always been intentional about storytelling, Terry Apala lays a strong foundation, drawing listeners into his world as he speaks on past experiences, his many struggles and the multitude of grueling jobs he hustled at before his entry into the world of music; Football, boxing, even roadside hawking and selling water, amongst other things. The depth of his lyrics as he tells his story channels such strong emotions, it’s palpable. Certainly, the production by Trigghazbeat stands out as well.
The second track, “Sebebe,” featuring Spellz, brings an infectious rhythm, where the collaboration between the artist and the producer creates a refreshing synergy that exemplifies the essence of Black & White. The track is a solid party vibe that perfectly brings that party energy. If you never heard a party track, suitable for the club but sung in Apala style, you’re certainly in for a treat–your ears will certainly be pleased by the beautifully blended sounds and uniquely different vibe.
One of the standout moments of the EP is Bride Price, a collaboration with street-hop sensation Bella Shmurda. A perfect Apala rendition, it’s poised to be the song for Owambe weddings this year and in fact, many years to come. The reference to the Nigerian cultural practice of initiating weddings with a bride price is perfectly intertwined with a description of the typical Nigerian Yoruba wedding, complete with mentions of the Asó Okè attire, the special Nigerian jollof rice and of course that outstanding Yoruba meal–Àmàlà. Terry Apala’s signature Fuji style and vocal depth provides a grounded yet dynamic foundation, while Bella Shmurda’s energetic and melodic flow injects vibrancy into the track. The traditional themed song is carried beautifully with a song delivery that is entirely in the Yoruba language. Musically, the track is a masterclass in blending. It features rhythmic percussion in form of the talking drum ( gán gàn) and the dùn dún that reflects undiluted traditional Yoruba influences as well as melodic instrumentation from the saxophone. It is in fact steeped and rooted in cultural authenticity with a touch of modern flare that is beautifully enhanced by the expert touch of skilled producer, Flamez.
Meanwhile, “Na You,” featuring WurlD and Wizard Chan, shifts gears with a soulful, love-infused ballad. What impresses right away is the beautiful instrumental that draws the listener seductively into the ear tingling and soul soothing rendition. Ozedikus certainly got into his bag with this production and his creativity shines through. Terry’s diversity shines through on this track and you just must be amazed at his ability to effortlessly layer his unique vibe on any genre. WurlD’s ethereal vocals flows in so smoothly you’re almost floating with joy. His delivery is nothing short of stellar and he certainly created an ear worm with his verse. Wizard Chan on the other hand, takes the song to a level that’s completely out of this world. That spiritual ambience that is a feature of his vocals does something to the song that elevates it from mere song to soul food. The song is certainly a track that’ll transcend time–a classic for sure.
Like an ever ascending staircase, this EP goes–taking you higher and higher till you find you’ve completely left the mere and ordinary confines of the earth to a high and elevated plane. That’s certainly how you’ll feel listening to “Methuselah” and whatever Sarz put in his stew when he was making the beat for this song, I want a lot of it. Outstanding! Stupendous!! That’s how I’d describe the track. Terry Apala was in the zone as he wrote and recorded this track and that much is clear. Switching from singing to rapping in such a seamless manner whilst still giving that trademark apala energy just goes to show how advanced he is when it comes to being creatively diverse. A blend of Apala, R&B, rap music and even rock music, “Methuselah” is a masterpiece in terms of creativity that’ll have you utterly amazed with each listen.
The sixth track off the EP, “Allow Me” is a pure Apala rendition that takes listeners right back to the root of the genre. That Fuji vibe is evident and it’s certainly a vibe that’s structured for dancing and relaxing. The infusion of saxophone elements, brilliantly infused in the beat creates a brilliant vibe that’s effortlessly enjoyable. Spellz certainly knows his spells.
The concluding track, “Flex” is certainly a track that exhibits that carefree energy that the title portrays. A solid party song through and through, “Flex” exudes an energy that says “let’s let loose and have some fun!” You certainly want to do just just as soon as you hear the track. The hard hitting percussion, beautifully blended with the gán gàn showcases a fusion of sounds both contemporary and traditional and so, the track caters to a wide audience indeed–young, old, Yoruba or not–all will enjoy the song regardless. Feel good vibes through and through.
Critically, Black & White is already generating buzz within the Nigerian music industry. While full reviews are still emerging, it is clear that this is one of Terry Apala’s most defining works yet. The project’s appeal lies in its seamless fusion of indigenous sounds with mainstream Afrobeats, a formula that Terry Apala has perfected over the years. His creativity, effortless diversity and ability to excel on such such a variety of vibes, put him in a class of his own.
Beyond its musical composition, Black & White serves as a statement of artistic growth. Terry Apala has consistently championed the preservation of Apala music while ensuring it evolves to fit modern soundscapes. His ability to keep the genre alive in an industry dominated by Afrobeats is both commendable and necessary for cultural preservation.
As Terry Apala continues to carve out his niche, this EP stands as a testament to his artistry, proving that tradition and modernity can not only coexist but thrive together.