Adekunle Gold’s latest single, Obimo, arrives at a pivotal moment in the trajectory of the artist’s evolving narrative. As his first official release of 2025, the song carries not only the weight of personal significance—tying into his anniversary with his wife Simi—but also a broader reflection of his artistic and cultural journey within the Afrobeats genre. “Obimo,” which translates to “my heart” in Igbo, builds on Adekunle Gold’s established knack for blending intimate, personal themes with universally relatable emotional expressions. But, much like his musical evolution, this track is more than just an expression of affection—it’s a demonstration of how love, both in its universal and specific manifestations, serves as the anchor for his continued reinvention as an artist.
Sonically, Obimo reflects a harmony between contemporary Afrobeats elements and Adekunle Gold’s roots in highlife, showcasing his ability to stretch the boundaries of the genre without losing the cultural identity that underpins his work. From the opening notes, the track envelopes listeners with its warm, engaging production, crafted by Ragee, which seamlessly marries rhythmic percussion with rich melodies. While undeniably danceable, there is a deliberate calm that runs through the song’s foundation—a restraint that serves to heighten the intimacy of the lyrics. This isn’t a track that demands a party atmosphere, but rather one that invites quiet reflection within a space of shared joy.
Lyrically, Obimo is a direct yet layered exploration of love. With phrases like “Obimo, my baby carry go,” Adekunle Gold elevates the simplicity of affection into an almost sacred promise, wrapping his devotion in a universal pledge of emotional security. Yet, it’s in the subtle moments that the track reveals its true depth—his approach to love isn’t one-dimensional or overly idealized, but instead speaks to the vulnerability and complexity that comes with commitment. The lyricism taps into an emotionality that is grounded in real life, where words are as much about reassurance as they are about navigating the complexities of partnership.
What stands out in Obimo is the careful calibration of personal storytelling within a broader cultural context. Adekunle Gold’s use of the Igbo language is significant not merely as an aesthetic choice but as a sonic homage to the diversity of Nigerian culture. In doing so, he continues to engage with the rich polyphonic nature of Nigerian music—one that resists simple categorization and embraces linguistic and musical multiplicity. The song isn’t just a reflection of his love for Simi, but also an exploration of the varied ways love is expressed in contemporary African music.
In terms of production, the blend of Afrobeats and highlife roots in Obimo could be seen as a further manifestation of Adekunle Gold’s ongoing exploration of his musical lineage. While he’s made notable strides in incorporating diverse sounds—evident in the fusion of Amapiano and R&B in his recent albums—Obimo feels like a return to the foundational elements of his artistry. Yet, it is precisely in this balance that Adekunle Gold finds his voice, reminding listeners that his appeal lies in his ability to craft emotionally resonant music without sacrificing his distinctive sound.
Ultimately, Obimo isn’t just a love song; it’s another step in Adekunle Gold’s ongoing journey as an artist. With this track, he continues to balance personal storytelling with the broader pulse of Nigerian music. It’s a reflection of where he’s been and where he’s going—rooted in his own experiences, yet still part of the larger conversation in Afrobeats. The song shows that his artistry is ever-evolving, never settling, always adapting.
