Music serves a million purposes. There’s a song for every occasion – partying, studying, working, eating, travelling. Music is life’s soundtrack. It acts as a sonic backdrop, ever present as we dabble through our day-to-day lives..
We at Encore, recognizing this ubiquity of music, have curated a playlist of songs for Entrepreneurs, Professionals and everyone on their ‘grind’. It is for those working, a 9-5 or a 5-9, remote or onsite, for free or paid. With striking lyrics & evocative instrumentation, this set of songs were picked to inspire productivity and boost efficiency. Songs featured include.
Hustle – Reminisce, D Smoke, Bnxn
‘Hustle’ is the second of three singles rumoured to be off Reminisce’s forthcoming album, “Alaye Toh Se Gogo” (ATSG) – the other two being ‘Overdose’ & ‘ATSG’.
This track describes the essence of the grind. Few do it solely for themselves, most do it for others too. This perspective is reflected in Reminisce & D Smoke’s verses and elevated in the chorus as Bnxn sings, “Even if you don’t do it for me, do it for my brothers”. This one’s for the hustlers with a purpose that goes beyond them.
Way Too Big – Burna Boy
Burna Boy’s self-assurance has always been larger than life. The man has two problems – 1. “He too sabi.” 2. He’s well aware of the aforesaid fact and won’t hesitate to flaunt it.
‘Way Too Big’ might not be the best testament of Burna’s artistic abilities, however, it is his most braggadocios – level with the African Giant album opener of the same title, where he boldly prophesies his grammy win.
Play this record when you need a confidence boost.
Checklist – Vader The Wildcard, TGM, Tiwadara
Uber talented creative, Vader the Wildcard (also known as Samo Agbero off his comedic skit series) taps TGM & Tiwadara on this placid record. Reflecting on their journey so far, Vader & TGM deliver impressive rap verses while Tiwadara performs a fitting chorus.
Never Stopped – Bnxn
Bnxn penned what would become the second song off his debut project, “Sorry I’m Late”, after watching a video by youtuber, Korty.
Bnxn channels his Burna Boy influences to deliver this “Never Give Up” Anthem. No surprises as he was formerly signed to Burna’s “On A Spaceship” imprint.
Buju sings, “I’ve never stopped in my life, .. why would I stop now”, in realization that despite coming so far, there’s so much left to conquer if he doesn’t settle.
Want It All – Burna Boy, Polo G
‘Want it All’ is both reflective & triumphant. Burna Boy ponders his difficult voyage to the top while concurrently celebrating his victories & conquests.
Maintaining his brag, he invites the listener into his former pains and present joys.
Champion Sound – Focalistic & Davido
The second of three collabs between these two (the other two being, ‘Ke Star’ & Ckay’s ‘Watawi), ‘Champion Sound’ is exactly what the title suggests – a victory song. Davido celebrates 10 years of success in music while Focalistic talks about his recent breakthrough.,
Makaveli – T-Classic
On ‘Makaveli’, T-Classic is laser-focused on the money. The title is a reference to either the late rapper, Tupac Shakur (nicknamed Makaveli) or Niccollo Machiavelli, the father of modern political philosophy & science, most likely the former.
Money Bag – Ria Sean
Following similar path as T-Classic’s ‘Makaveli’, Ria Sean is all about the ‘bag’ on this one.
Running – Ladipoe, Fireboy DML
Frustrations are a part of the journey and thuis song doesn’t aim to gloss over that fact. Ladipoe & DML share how, despite their success, they still feel a certain level of exhaustion that everyone can identify with.
If you’re living on vibes, this is the one to play.
Other songs on the playlist include;
- Blessings – Niphkeys, Zinoleesky
- Come My Way – Wande Coal
- The One – Meji
- Abo Mvelo – Daliwonga, Mellow & Sleazy, M.J
- Bank On It – Burna Boy