Nigeria: Timaya shares new album Gladiator

The LP, the musician’s ninth full-length collection, chronicles his life’s battles and victories, starting with his breakout hit ‘Dem Mama’ in 2005. 

The album, which blends dancehall, soca, Afrobeats and hip hop, features fellow Nigerian acts Phyno, Olamide and Tiwa Savage, as well as Jamaican dancehall star Konshens. Production was spearheaded by frequent collaborator Young D (Gyptian, Davido), Jonny Blaze (Shenseea, Mavado, Sean Paul) and Masterkraft (Wizkid, Flavour).

According to Timaya, the project is a “movement, a declaration of self-belief, and a call to rise above life’s challenges.”

Gladiator kicks off with ‘Payback,’ where Timaya transforms his past struggles into a triumphant anthem, followed by ‘Sweet Us,’ which reconnects with his Afro-dancehall roots. ‘Compozure’ adds a romantic touch, while ‘Free’ offers introspection on his journey of self-discovery. Tracks like ‘Whinin Criminal’ bring Timaya’s signature high-energy dancehall vibe, ‘In My Head’ weaves in Spanish romance, and ‘Dey Your Dey’ listens as a self-empowerment anthem. The album wraps up with ‘Na Money,’ exploring wealth’s influence, and ‘Get Your Money Right,’ an anthem of hustle.

Speaking about the inspiration behind Gladiator, and how the record came together, Timaya said: “this Gladiator project is more than just an album to me – it’s a movement, a testimony to self-belief, and the courage to rise above no matter the challenges. This project reflects my journey, from where I started to where I am today, and where I’m headed. Music has given me everything, and this album is my way of giving back, because I will keep giving it all I have. I want to ignite a fire within my listeners, to remind them of the power they hold within themselves, and to encourage them to keep going, no matter what life throws at them. Life comes in phases, but you can’t lose yourself – you just have to keep going”.

Founder of DM Records, Timaya’s other albums include True Story, Gift and Grace, De Rebirth, Epiphany, and Gratitude. He boasts over two billion streams and multiple Headies Awards.