Yemi Alade: A Master of Genres and Musical Versatility
Not many people know that the singer born Yemi Eberechi Alade is a true master of genres. Not only does she entertain her audience with incredible panache, but she also deftly switches up her style whenever she wants to.
Afrobeats is home to irresistibly fascinating female talents whose impact has been felt both locally and internationally. But among them, one notable songbird and diva stands out with a captivating aura and presence. Her name: Yemi Alade.
With multiple chart-topping singles and highly coveted awards to her name, Yemi Alade’s decade-long successful musical career has seen her sing soulful ballads, dancehall club bangers, and scintillating R&B records, all while maintaining her title as Mama Africa.
In celebration of Women’s History Month, here are ten songs from Yemi Alade’s impressive catalogue that showcase her versatility, allowing fans to experience different sides of her musical persona.
10) Bamboo
‘Bamboo’ is a classic. The Fliptyce-produced mid-tempo ballad reels listeners in through Yemi’s impeccable vocals as she relays her unshakeable feelings for an unnamed love interest. Listening to this song again, you’d want to fall in love all over or reminisce about the good old days.
9) Temperature
Off her debut album, King of Queens, the Dil-assisted track has Yemi duetting her heart out on this Afro-R&B number. At this point, she was on top of her game. The compelling visuals also tell a good story of how the singer can be such a lover girl.
8) Na Gode
Pairing up with her hit machine at the time, Selebobo, Yemi served up this jam to express her gratitude for the wins she had recorded so far. It was the perfect lead single off her sophomore album, Mama Africa. She was already entering francophone-speaking markets and winning over their hearts during this phase of her career.
7) Africa
What’s Mama Africa without a song about Africa? On this track, Yemi confirms her love for the continent on a BeatsByEmzo production. Recruiting Sauti Sol for a verse crowned it all.
6) Want You
Maleek Berry’s eclectic production blends seamlessly with Yemi’s audacious vocals in this EDM and Afro-Caribbean fusion track. Talk about range.
5) Bum Bum
This dancehall track introduced Yemi’s racy side to fans. Records like Bubble It and Baddie were birthed because Bum Bum was teased and the audience loved it.
4) Shake
Who does highlife with Duncan Mighty and nails it? Yemi Alade. Off her critically acclaimed album Woman of Steel, Shake sees Yemi collaborate with Nigeria’s highlife maestro himself, Port Harcourt’s first son, Wene Mighty, to deliver an exotic record.
3) Vibe
She wants a boy who will love her scatter. Another EDM beauty served up by the Queen herself. Vibe is a delicious blend of dancehall and reggae.
2) Remind You
Yes. This song is a reminder that R&B is Yemi’s bread and butter. Her vocals glide effortlessly as she reminds a love interest of the moments they used to share.
1) Criminal in Agbada
Criminal in Agbada is the singer’s conscious side expressing itself. Yemi flaunts her dynamism on this reggae track as she discusses the socio-political ills of her country.
Yemi Alade isn’t just a singer; she’s a musical force, a genre-bending icon who continues to redefine what it means to be versatile in the industry. From soulful ballads to fiery dancehall tracks, she proves time and again why she reigns supreme. Whether you’re in the mood for love, dance, or deep reflection, Yemi Alade has a song for every vibe. Long live Mama Africa!
