Ivorian rap meets Nigerian Afropop as Didi B links up with Qing Madi on “ADIOS,” a cross-border pairing worth attention. The single places two African music stars on one track. Besides, the meeting point is exactly where the interest lies.
“ADIOS” carries the cross-cultural vision behind SHOGUN IN LAGOS. By putting Didi B’s Ivorian rap influence beside Qing Madi’s Nigerian style, the record speaks to the growing relationship between the Francophone and Anglophone African music scenes. That bridge between both worlds gives the song its character.
On the song, Didi B raps around the emotional side of love. He expresses the pain of separation and the longing to be reunited with someone special. His recognisable rap delivery gives the record a distinctive feel, while the melodic arrangement around him builds an emotional atmosphere rather than crowding him out.
Qing Madi answers with soulful vocals and melodies of her own. Her performance blends with Didi B’s delivery, so neither voice feels bolted on. The connection between the Ivorian rapper and the Nigerian Afropop singer is what holds the track together.
Have you heard “Didi B – ADIOS” yet? Tell us your verdict on the pairing in the comments.