MUSIC: NIGERIA V. AFRICA: BOPE BOYA

"See, I don't care about what they say about us/I don't care about the bad people that make us look bad/I believe in Nigeria/That's my word/Naija for life." - Tolu "Bope Boya"

Despite the many problems, Nigerians are a very patriotic people who love their nation and the possibilities it represents. As is clear from the words above, the opening lyrics to Tolu's song "Bope Boya", immediately convey that patriotism. The entire song is a message from the artist encouraging all Nigerians to have faith in the country's future. That message is one that all Nigerians need particularly in light of the recent Jos deaths, arrests of journalists and bloggers, and the innocent babies who lost their lives as a result of fake teething solution.

The beat of this song is quite simple, and for some reason the base reminds me of what southern hip hop used to sound like in the late 19990s, just more modern (anyone remember Atlanta's Ghost Town Dj's "My Boo"?). However, the message of Bope Boya is very powerful. Consider the chorus,

"Bope boya a de be.
No matter how long we will get there.
Make you no give up Nigeria.
Soon we'll become the most desirable in the world."

I discovered this optimistic song at the wonderful gem that is Notjustok. And, if I may say, I especially loved the harmony deployed in the very final chorus. If Tolu or any of his team is reading this, I congratulate him on providing me with renewed hope and optimism for the potential of a better Nigeria. Someday.

* If anyone can direct me to the lyrics of this song or is willing to transcribe them, I would be eternally grateful.

Further Reading:
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent II - P-Square "Say your Love"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent III - Infinity's "Olori Oko"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent IV - Tuface
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent V - Ty Bello's "Greenland"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent VI - Banky W.'s "Ebute Meta"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent VII - Fishe's "Africa"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent VIII - Asa's "So Beautiful"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent IX - Nayo's "1+1"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent X - Conscious Music