Taves has unveiled his new eight-track EP, Popstar SIDE A, marking a significant milestone in his musical evolution and solidifying his place as one of Nigeria’s most promising Afropop artists. The project, released after a standout year in his career, follows the success of his singles Uche Jombo and Isn’t It Beautiful, both of which generated widespread acclaim and helped build momentum for the EP. Uche Jombo, inspired by Wizkid’s Don’t Dull, became Taves’ biggest commercial hit to date, earning strong streaming numbers and praise from music critics and fans alike. Meanwhile, Isn’t It Beautiful offered a more introspective look at his artistry, showcasing his ability to blend emotional depth with melodic finesse.
Since his emergence in 2019, Taves has consistently built a unique sound by fusing Afrobeats, R&B, and alternative pop. His dedication to his craft has earned him recognition from major platforms such as Apple Music, Billboard, and The Headies, especially after the release of his 2024 album Are You Listening?. He has also collaborated with notable artists including Show Dem Camp, BNXN, LADIPOE, and L.A.X., further expanding his reach and credibility in the Nigerian music scene.
Popstar SIDE A features production from Arieenati, Spax, OG Sterling, and Samklef, with Wizkid receiving an additional composer credit on one of the standout tracks. The EP tells a cohesive story of a young man navigating the complexities of love, ambition, faith, and personal growth while living in Lagos. From the opening track Chaos, which explores the tension between career and relationships, to Simone and Isn’t It Beautiful, which delve into the fragility and allure of romance, the project offers emotional honesty and narrative depth.
Other tracks like Deliver Me reflect vulnerability and spiritual longing, while Uche Jombo brings a confident, celebratory energy. Preaching captures moments of financial hardship and quiet prayer, and Space revisits the pain of losing someone due to personal mistakes. The EP closes with Take Me Away, a heartfelt confession that love still holds the power to transform and heal.
Rather than just a collection of songs, Popstar SIDE A functions as a personal diary set to music, inviting listeners into Taves’ inner world. Through themes of heartbreak, desire, faith, and self-discovery, he presents his most authentic and complete self yet. As he continues to evolve, Taves is shaping himself into a defining voice for a new generation of Nigerian pop and Afrobeats artists. With this release, he reaffirms his position as a storyteller with a unique perspective and a sound that resonates across generations.
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