Sierra Leone: Drizilik features Idris Elba on Ashobi single

Released on Elba’s Idris’ 7Wallace label, ‘Ashobi’ arrives on the heels of ‘Popular’, Drizilik’s recent joint single with Ramoni. It melds traditional sounds with contemporary pulses, deploying punchy drums, accordion and rousing vocals.

Drizilik’s style often finds him experimenting with hip hop and Afrobeats. Lauded for his clever use of Krio euphemisms and metaphors, the musician shot to local fame with his 2018 debut album Shukubly. The Project won him Album of the Year, Best Afro Hip Hop Artist of The Year, Male Artist of the Year, and Best Live Performer at the 2019 National Entertainment Awards.

Idris Elba juggles a successful music career with his status as one of the most sought-after actors globally. His biggest tracks include ‘Girl With The Bat’, ‘Apple Crumble’ and ‘Boasty’. His 7Wallace imprint continues to provide a platform for established talent, having released music for artists such as Che Lingo, Q-Tip, Cypress Hill, Little Simz, Toddla T and Chip.

“Collaborating with Idris on this song is a major creative validation,” Drizilk said. “Freetown is experiencing a musical revival that fuses our culture with popular music. ‘Ashobi’ is a perfect example of this fusion – Milo Jazz meets Afrobeats. Idris is a multi-hyphenate and to have him on ‘Ashobi’ means both the song and Freetown’s music revival are legit.”

He added: “‘Ashobi' is an invitation to the world to get down and dance. And for Sierra Leoneans soon as they hear it, they’ll hear the culture. ‘Ashobi’ is about to be the official soundtrack for celebrations from parties to weddings.”