The released single, “Rise Up”, of the music icon, 2 Baba, featuring the creative and dynamic superstar, Falz, is an insightful sound filled with the necessary messages many Nigerians need at this moment. As Nigerians continue to battle against institutional failure, corruption, terrorism and the aftermaths of the Lekki Shootings, the song provides solace and comforts, especially garnished with messages of collective hope and courage.
The song explicitly transcends boundaries, examining challenges faced around the world, and how difficult it must be to survive and thrive in the recurring situation we all are in. The single likened the problems to the pandemic, passing the message that the “curve go flatten”, thereby preaching a gospel of standing firm, against all odds.
The single emphasizes that the challenges we all face are a phase to make us strong against greater adversities and hardships. Lines like “Know say gbege go come and go, ebelebe/We suppose to jump am oh, ebelebe/We suppose to know say, we must to rise up again” is a clear testament to this assertion, assuring the citizenry and the listeners of better times ahead and light at the end of the tunnel.
“Rise Up” delves on the concept of relaxing off pressure, as it helps in pulling off hard phases and would aid in pulling through tough situations. Infused by Falz’s dazzling rap, the song is a perfect gbedu infused with a strong hook of flex and hope. The song combines all the good vibes effectively, whilst not losing touch with its main theme.
The song also features allusions from previous happenings, ranging from references from the Marvel movie, Black Panther, to the deaths of Uwa and Tina, particularly from Falz’s verses. This brings in the messages inspired by black pride, kidnappings and police brutality, which is evidenced in campaigns like the #MeToo movement, the war against terrorism and the #EndSARS demonstrations.
The song is a testament to the genius of 2Baba and Falz, two Nigerian music maestros, who creatively explored different themes from mainstream happenings and general challenges, while effectively passing a message of courage and perfect flex. The single is a project promoting collecting hope and courage, signalling that “we must to rise up again”.
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Adedimeji Quayyim Abdul-Hafeez is a mad creative on the loose, journalist and law enthusiast. He receives mails on quayyimadedimeji@gmail.com and directs the Ministry of Flex, Vibes and Creativity on Twitter via @quayyimbakr.
