Olamide releases fifth album in five years

Speaking with an interviewer months ago, Olamide said he had no plans to release a solo album in 2015. In that regard, he has done one better, as Eyan Mayweather (which translates to Mayweather's person) is a true solo album in that it has Olamide performing each song without guest features.

This was revealed when the rapper posted a tracklist on social media. The only signs of creative assistance are from producers. Pheelz, Olamide's usual collaborator, provides much of the production on the album. Producers Young John, Major Bangz and ID Cabasa, all frequent partners at some point in his career, supply production as well. Upon its release Olamide spoke to Cool FM about the decision to go it alone.

"That's just Olamide challenging himself," he said. "What if? What if? Can you do it own your own? What if there was no Wizkid? What if there was no David [Davido]? Won't you still do something about your own song?"

He added: "We had so many songs on the album that we would have liked to have the likes of Wande Coal, Wizkid and all that. But if I do that same thing everybody is doing, what is going to make my album standout? What is going to make it spectacular?"

The decision may have worked as within few hours of its release, Eyan Mayweather climbed up to the second position on the local iTunes chart. Soon after it reached number 1, topping British singer Adele's 25 in the process, Olamide shared a screen grab of the chart, writing, "Hello to adele…daddy is here…God bless my supporters."

Previously released singles ‘Lagos Boys’, ‘Melo Melo’ and the massive hit ‘Bobo’ are housed by the 21-track LP. The title-track, however, was released just before the album itself. On it Olamide, following hip-hop tradition, blows his trumpet, insisting that no one else has sold out shows in Nigeria, Malaysia, United States and The United Kingdom, referencing an appeal that saw him close the AFRIMA ceremony despite winning only one award on the night.

Eyan Mayweather was released 23 November. Click here to buy on iTunes.