Fireboy DML’s Adedamola: A Journey with Music Legends
Fireboy DML, one of Nigeria’s leading music stars, recently released his fourth studio album, Adedamola. In an interview with Apple Music Africa Now, the award-winning artist discussed the making of his album, including the standout Fireboy and Lagbaja collaboration. He also shared unique experiences from working with Nigerian music legends Lagbaja and Seun Kuti.
The Mystery of Lagbaja: Inside the Fireboy and Lagbaja Collaboration
One standout moment of the interview was when Fireboy recounted his time in the studio with Lagbaja. The enigmatic saxophonist and Afrobeat legend is known for his signature mask. According to Fireboy, the entire recording session for their track “Back & Forth” was shrouded in mystery—quite literally.
“You would not believe this: [Lagbaja] was masked up in the studio. It was crazy—I did not get to see his face,” Fireboy shared, expressing his awe and excitement. “I had a few interesting thoughts; I wanted to ask him if I could see his face! But you know, all that matters is that we made the music. That’s what makes Lagbaja, Lagbaja.”
Lagbaja, whose name in Yoruba means “Mr. Nobody” or “anonymous person,” is a symbol of mystery in Nigerian music. For Fireboy, the collaboration was about more than just making music. It was also about respecting the legacy and identity of a true icon. He noted, “It’s only right that I do not get to see his face. I’m glad he got to be on the record—a special person, a special artist, a special record.”
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Collaborating with Seun Kuti: A Tribute to Afrobeat and Fireboy’s Musical Growth
Fireboy also collaborated with Seun Kuti, the son of the legendary Fela Kuti. This track was suggested by Olamide, Fireboy’s mentor and YBNL label boss. Olamide served as one of the A&Rs for the album.
“Big shout out to Olamide, one of the A&Rs on the album. When we worked on the song together in the studio, he advised me, ‘I hear Seun Kuti on this,’ and the moment he said that it just clicked,” Fireboy explained. The Afrobeat star brought his signature saxophone sound and dynamic personality to the track, creating a musical experience that Fireboy described as “fun and hilarious.”
Working with Seun Kuti was not just about adding a touch of Afrobeat to the album; it was about paying homage to a genre and a family that has shaped the global music landscape. Fireboy’s admiration for Seun was evident as he praised his “colorful personality” and “down-to-earth” nature.
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Honoring Legends: The Wande Coal Tribute and Fireboy’s Musical Legacy
Fireboy’s Adedamola is more than just an album—it’s a tribute to the legends who have influenced African music over the years. One of the tracks, named after Afropop icon Wande Coal, exemplifies this homage. Fireboy recounted the inspiration behind the song:
“I recorded that in 2021, I think, in SPINALL’s studio in Lagos. I was like, ‘When the time is right, this record will come out’—it just made a lot of sense. I listened to the beat once and it just immediately took me back to 2015-2016, when I was listening to one of Wande Coal’s records.”
For Fireboy, the track is more than just a song. It nods to Wande Coal’s influence on his musical journey. He described it as a “tribute” to Wande Coal and a recognition of the impact that legends like him have had on the industry.
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Conclusion: Bridging the Past and Present in Fireboy’s Adedamola
Adedamola showcases Fireboy’s evolution as an artist and honors the rich history of African music. The album features notable collaborations, including the standout Fireboy and Lagbaja collaboration, which highlight Fireboy’s respect for musical legends.
Fireboy emphasizes that, “This whole album is more like a tribute to all the legends that shaped African music over the years, and also a testament to myself, of course, and my growth over the years.”
By including influential figures like Lagbaja and Seun Kuti, Fireboy bridges the gap between past and present, celebrating both his own growth and the legacy of these iconic musicians. With Adedamola, Fireboy not only cements his role in the Nigerian music scene but also pays homage to those who have paved the way for artists like him. The album is a testament to the enduring impact of past legends and a vibrant contribution to contemporary music.
Reference:
Pulse – Lagbaja didn’t allow me see his face during our recording session – Fireboy
