FOLLOW-UP TO “WAHALA” SINGLE FEAT. OLAMIDE
STAY TUNED FOR MORE NEW MUSIC TO COME
Fresh off the success of his chart-topping single “Wahala” (24.8M streams to date) featuring Nigerian heavyweight Olamide, global superstar CKay is back to continue his hot streak with the release of “EGWU EJI.”
With “EGWU EJI,” CKay invites the world to experience the richness of his Igbo heritage in a deeply personal yet globally resonant track. “EGWU EJI” is a groundbreaking fusion of Afrobeats and Amapiano, seamlessly woven together by the enchanting sounds of the Oja flute—a cultural bridge connecting West and South Africa. The Oja flute, traditionally used in the Igbo tribe of Nigeria for significant gatherings, takes center stage in this musical masterpiece. The accompanying official music video effortlessly merges modern and traditional cultures, providing a visually stunning experience for fans.
“EGWU EJI,” which translates to “something heavy or impressive” in Igbo, is a celebration of CKay’s roots. The song features the Oja Flute, a traditional Igbo instrument often heard at cultural events and celebrations, blending the old with the new to create a distinctive sound that’s bound to captivate his audience.
Rooted in tradition, yet forward-looking in its execution, “EGWU EJI” is produced by CKay’s longtime collaborators Jay Synth (“Ojapiano,” “I Pray”) and BMH (“Emiliana,” “MYSTERIOUS LOVE,” “Wahala”). The track is designed to appeal to CKay’s growing international fanbase, with an infectious dance beat that’s perfect for club-goers and casual listeners alike. “It’s a feel-good club record that draws heavy inspiration from traditional Igbo dance music,” CKay shares. “It’s a song about meeting a woman at the club and the passion that ensues. The instrumental produced by Jay Synth and BMH spoke to me very strongly.”
“EGWU EJI” is accompanied by visually stunning short-form content and a visualiser that highlights CKay’s deep connection to his heritage. Through the sounds and visuals, CKay creates a cultural mosaic, celebrating African identity while appealing to a diverse global audience. The release will also be supported by performance videos that shine a light on the beauty and strength of African women.
Chukwuka Ekweani, known as CKay, has been a rising star in the ever-growing Afrobeats scene. Whether behind the boards as a producer or in front of the mic performing his self-penned songs, CKay’s single-minded vision shines through. As the self-defined Emo-Afrobeats star, CKay has soared up charts worldwide, capturing the hearts of fans with his globally recognized single, ‘love nwantiti.’
With “EGWU EJI,” CKay reaffirms his position as one of Africa’s most innovative and exciting musical voices, melding tradition with modernity in a sound that is both familiar and fresh. Prepare to be swept away by CKay’s impressive ode to his heritage and his culture. This is music with depth. This is “EGWU EJI.”
ABOUT CKAY
Chukwuka Ekweani, publicly known as CKay, is a standout in the Afrobeats scene, renowned for blending Emo-Afrobeats with global sounds. His breakout hit, ‘Love Nwantiti,’ released in 2019, catapulted him to international fame, earning multi-platinum status in countries like the U.S., India, and Italy. CKay became the first African artist to have two songs in Spotify’s Global Top 30 simultaneously and held a top 5 spot on the UK Singles Chart for four weeks.
His debut album Sad Romance (2023) garnered over 380 million streams and featured collaborations with artists like Davido and Ayra Starr. The deluxe version, released in 2024, included hits like ‘HALLELUJAH,’ which topped Apple Music in Nigeria. CKay also featured on major tracks like Olamide’s “Trumpet” and Janelle Monáe’s Grammy-nominated song “Know Better.’
His latest singles, “MYSTERIOUS LOVE” and “IS IT YOU?”, continue his exploration of Amapiano, Afrobeats, and Pop, showcasing his unique Emo-Afrobeats style.
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