Nigeria: Taves releases new EP Popstar SIDE A

The Lagos-based artist’s latest project follows the release of ‘Uche Jombo’, a reinterpretation of Wizkid’s ‘Don't Dull’, and the introspective ‘Isn’t It Beautiful’. The two singles helped build anticipation for the EP, which explores themes of love, pressure, faith and self-discovery.

Popstar SIDE A features production from Arieenati, Spax, OG Sterling and Samklef, with Wizkid credited as an additional composer on ‘Uche Jombo’.

The project opens with ‘Chaos’, which explores the tension between romantic relationships and professional ambitions. Other tracks include ‘Simone’, ‘Deliver Me’, ‘Preaching’, ‘Space’ and ‘Take Me Away’, which examine relationships, financial pressure, faith, regret and personal reflection.

Taves has been active since 2019, developing a sound that combines Afrobeats, R&B and alternative pop. He received wider attention following his 2024 project Are You Listening?, which earned recognition from Apple Music, Billboard and The Headies.

He has also collaborated with artists including Show Dem Camp, BNXN, Ladipoe and L.A.X.

With Popstar SIDE A, Taves draws on personal experiences to explore relationships, desire, connection and personal growth, presenting a more introspective side of his artistry while maintaining the accessible sound that has shaped his career to date.