Adekunle Gold’s Artistic Metamorphosis Shines in “Tequila Ever After”

Adekunle Gold, the enigmatic Nigerian musician, has embarked on an extraordinary journey of artistic evolution throughout his music career, and his latest album “Tequila Ever After” is a dazzling showcase of his multifaceted talent.

With 18 captivating tracks that span various genres and emotions, the album is an immersive experience that takes listeners on a roller-coaster ride through Gold’s life, love, and musical growth. From the choice of collaborators to the fusion of different sounds, Gold’s musicality on this project positions him at the zenith of his artistry, leaving fans spellbound and eager for more.

The album opens with a soul-stirring track titled “Chasing Peace of Mind,” featuring the legendary Malian guitarist Habib Koite and South African songstress Ami Faku. The haunting guitar strings set the tone as Gold opens up about his struggles to find inner tranquillity amidst the chaos of fame. With raw and vulnerable lyrics like “My therapist don try, no remedy for my mind,” Gold’s introspection pulls at the heartstrings, reminding us that even stars grapple with the weight of the world. Faku’s ethereal vocals complement the melancholic melody, creating a poignant constructive collaboration that leaves an indelible mark on the listener’s soul.

As the journey continues, “Party No Dey Stop” crashes in with an infectious energy, featuring the versatile Zinoleesky. This high-octane track is an invitation to embrace life’s joys and revel in the moment. With its pulsating beats and catchy chorus, Gold and Zinoleesky urge listeners to seize every opportunity for celebration, singing, “Party no dey stop, I say let’s pop champagne.” The song is a euphoric anthem that transcends boundaries and reminds us of the universal language of happiness.

“Soro,” the next track, is a genre-blending masterpiece that displays Gold’s prowess in experimenting with various musical elements. With hints of Highlife, Afropop, and Amapiano, the song is a delightful fusion of cultures and sounds. Gold’s sweet promises to his love interest are interwoven with Nigerian Highlife musician Chief Osita Osadebe’s influence, making the track a nostalgic yet contemporary tribute to traditional African music. “Soro” encapsulates Gold’s ability to seamlessly weave his roots into his evolving artistry.

In “Tio Baby,” Gold takes a plunge into Afro-swing territory, effortlessly highlighting his smooth-talking charm. From the first note, “Tio Baby” exudes an irresistible aura, destined to become a club banger. The captivating lyricism and ear-pleasing production chops make it impossible not to move to the rhythm. With this track, Gold reveals yet another layer of his musicality, solidifying his position as a versatile artist who can thrive in any genre he explores.

The enchanting “Ogaranya,” translating to “big man,” sees Gold celebrating his accomplishments and hard-earned success. The song’s infectious chorus, “I’m on a new level, better make way when you see Ogaranya,” exudes confidence and self-assurance, as Gold playfully references Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo’s iconic wealthy roles. The incorporation of Yoruba musician Musiliu Haruna Ishola’s “Ise Oluwa Ko Seni Toye” in the track adds an authentic touch, bridging generations and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.

In “Wrong Person,” featuring the fierce Odumodublvck, Gold deviates from his usual themes of love and celebration to assert his boldness and unapologetic nature. With an assertive opening line, “Dem dey think say I gentle for face but I no gather,” Gold’s confidence takes center stage as he declares his indomitable spirit. The upbeat Dancehall influences, along with Odumodublvck’s fierceness, elevate the song to new heights, making it a standout in Gold’s discography.

As the album delves deeper into the realms of love and desire, “Do You Mind?” and “Sisi Ganja” emerge as intoxicating odes to romance and admiration. The captivating melodies and heartfelt lyrics make these tracks irresistible and display Gold’s ability to mesmerize listeners with his amorous storytelling. His adulation for his lover’s body is beautifully expressed in “Do You Mind?” with lyrics like “Girl, I want to hear your body, rotate your body,” while “Sisi Ganja” further amplifies his admiration for the female form.

An unexpected yet delightful collaboration with American actress and singer Coco Jones in “Make It Easy” elevates the album’s charm. The R&B influences shine through as both artists complement each other’s vocals flawlessly. The chemistry between Gold and Jones adds an extra layer of depth and emotion, making the duet a standout moment on the album.

The emotional depth and vulnerability return on “Not My Problem,” a poignant track accompanied by prominent guitar strings and saxophone. Gold bids farewell to a hesitant lover, pouring his heart out with lyrics that reflect the complexities of relationships. The song’s arrangement creates a sombre yet enchanting atmosphere, providing a perfect canvas for Gold’s emotive delivery.

“Kere” captures Gold’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming an influential trailblazer in the music industry. With an unapologetic swagger, Gold proclaims, “Wo nipe mo kere but they dey copy my way,” celebrating his uniqueness and the impact he has had on his peers. The song’s musical production, helmed by the ever-talented Kel-P, stands out as a testament to Gold’s creative ingenuity.

One of the most anticipated tracks on the album, “Look What You Made Me Do,” features a heartwarming reunion with Gold’s wife, Simi. The love duet takes listeners on a journey of the sacrifices made for love, with both artists pouring their hearts out with every note. The captivating chemistry between Gold and Simi elevates the track, making it an emotional and unforgettable moment in the album.

In “Omo Eko,” Gold proudly embraces his identity as a Lagosian, paying tribute to the city that shaped him into the artist he is today. The infectious chant “AG we want to party” sets the stage for a vibrant celebration of Lagos and its rich culture. As Gold reminisces about his early days in the city, the song becomes a nostalgic homage to his roots, which have played a pivotal role in his artistic evolution.

The heartfelt “Come Back to Me” highlights Gold’s tender side as he implores a lost lover to return. American singer Khalid joins Gold on this track, and together they create a soul-stirring duet that tugs at the heartstrings. The song’s emotional sincerity and vulnerability make it a standout ballad, a testament to Gold’s prowess as a storyteller.

“Falling Up,” featuring American artist Pharrell Williams and the legendary composer Niles Rogers, is an experimental masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of Gold’s musical expression. The song’s well-arranged drum patterns, backup vocals, and iconic guitar play by Rogers elevate the track to a celestial realm. “Falling Up” stands as a testament to Gold’s fearlessness in exploring new sonic territories and his commitment to artistic innovation.

With “To My Own,” featuring British artist Labrinth, Gold reaffirms his unapologetic pursuit of his artistic vision. The track oozes confidence and self-assurance as Gold embraces all the decisions he has made in his career. Labrinth’s soulful vocals add an extra layer of authenticity to the song, creating a powerful musical journey that resonates with listeners on a profound level.

The album’s grand finale, “All My Life,” is a heartfelt declaration of love and devotion. Gold’s tender vocals and heartfelt lyrics stand as a testament to the power of enduring love. The song serves as a reminder that amidst the glitz and glamour of fame, love remains the anchor that keeps Gold grounded and connected to his true self. While some might argue that “All My Life” may not be the ideal closing song due to its love theme, it’s emotional sincerity and vulnerability beautifully complement the thematic progression of the album, revealing yet another facet of Gold’s artistry.

As an intentional artist, Adekunle Gold has crafted “Tequila Ever After” with a recurring celebratory theme that flows seamlessly through the project. This symmetry not only gives the album sonic cohesiveness but also reinforces the essence of happiness and joy that Gold aims to share with his audience. Some may argue that the recurring theme could lead to a monotonous feel, but the album’s sonic brilliance, combined with the production magic from Kel-P, Seyifunmi, Monro, Shae Jacobs, Herv, and others, disproves any notion of monotony.

Gold’s musical evolution has been a revelation to fans and critics alike. Starting from his folk-pop debut with “Sade,” he has fearlessly explored Indigenous traditions and Western styles, evolving into a pop star and a musical chameleon. His evolution reflects a rich narrative background for each phase of his career, a testament to his creativity and genius as an artist.

In addition to his musical transformation, Gold’s fashion style has also evolved over the years, becoming a canvas for his artistic expression. Swapping his Afro for dreadlocks and cornrows, donning glittering, and colorful outfits, and embracing tailored suits, Gold’s fashion choices echo his commitment to exploring new territories and pushing boundaries.

“Tequila Ever After” is a monumental achievement for Adekunle Gold, solidifying his status as one of Nigeria’s most versatile and innovative artists. With its diverse range of emotions and musical influences, the album represents a comprehensive journey of self-discovery, growth, and artistic maturation. Gold’s ability to seamlessly weave different genres and collaborate with a diverse array of artists displays his adaptability and charisma.

Adekunle Gold’s “Tequila Ever After” is a toast to his musical growth and his journey thus far. With nothing to prove, he simply enjoys himself on each track, singing from the heart and taking listeners on an unforgettable musical odyssey.

As fans immerse themselves in the album’s eclectic sounds, each song becomes as seductive as a shot of tequila, leaving a lasting imprint on their musical souls. Gold’s “Tequila Ever After” is more than just an album; it’s a testament to the boundless possibilities of artistic transformation and the unwavering pursuit of one’s musical dreams.