Mohbad Was A Blessed Light
Like other musicians who died before him, Mohbad will continue to shine his light to keep the Nigerian music industry blessed.
I was busy working on a piece titled 'Local Rappers': A Game-Changing Anthem in Nigerian Hip-Hop when my friend Tolu ran into my room to tell me that rapper and singer Mohbad was dead. He said the news about Mohbad's death was the number 1 trending topic on Nigerian X (Twitter). I minimized my writing app and opened my X (Twitter) app to check and read a few things about his death. I was so heartbroken that I swiped off my X (Twitter) app to think about his troubled and short-lived life. I sighed and told Tolu that I was rapping 'Ask About Me', a song from Mohbad's last album, Blessed when I went out to get a meal in the morning. Tolu hadn't listened to the song. I opened Audiomack and played the calm, incantatory music. When the song ended, I played 'Beast and Peace', another highlight song also from the Blessed album.
Born Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, Mohbad burst into the Nigerian music industry in 2020, after releasing his debut acclaimed EP Light under Marlian Records, owned by rapper and singer Naira Marley. His thrilling chorus on ‘KPK’ (Ko Por Ke) by producer Rexxie, released on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic, was a street anthem and toast at Lagos carnivals.
Two years after signing with Marlian Record, Mohbad openly declared his departure after a dispute with his label boss Naira Marley over money and contractual agreement. But Naira Marley didn't want him to leave, which resulted in a fisticuff that left Mohbad physically, mentally, and financially broken. After a fierce tussle, Mohbad left Marlian Music to create his own label, Imolelisation, stylised after his adlib, Imole, which means light. Even when battling depression, he kept releasing fantastic music to the delight of the Nigerian music audience.
Mohbad, undoubtedly, left an indelible mark on the music industry with his unique style, and vibrant, impactful lyrics. 'Beast and Peace' and 'Ask About Me', both from his final album Blessed, stand as some of his significant contributions to his musical legacy.
'Beast and Peace', the opening song on the Blessed EP, showcases Mohbad's versatility and lyrical prowess. The title itself suggests a duality within him, possibly representing the inner conflict he grappled with. The track delves into themes of personal struggle, ambition, and the quest for inner peace. The juxtaposition of Beast and Peace reflects a complex individual striving for balance amid life's challenges. "Mo silent mood but beast nimi, mole cause violence but still peace nimi (I'm in silent mode but I'm a beast, I could create violence but I am peace)," Mohbad sleekly raps, his silky voice raises, blending violence with peace. "You don’t have to hurt me before you win, you don’t have to kill somebody before you sin," he adds.
Though laced with the subtle threat of 'Beast and Peace', 'Ask About Me' may be an indication of Mohbad's confidence and self-assuredness. The song, which covertly throws a shot at his former label boss, also serves as a statement to his contemporaries and critics, asserting his influence and significance in the music industry. Through his lyrics, Mohbad provides a glimpse into his journey, affirming his place in the rap and music scene.
The album art for Blessed carries deep symbolism. Mohbad's choice of a horse blood-red background is likely not arbitrary. Red often symbolizes passion, intensity, and life's vitality. In this context, it could represent Mohbad's unwavering commitment to his craft. The slightly blurred imagery of him closing his eyes and raising his right hand is poignant. It could be interpreted as a farewell gesture, suggesting a sense of finality or closure in his artistic journey. This album art, in its entirety, could be seen as Mohbad's way of leaving a lasting impression on his audience. The red background and his pose may signify that he poured his heart and soul into his music, ultimately bidding farewell to the world through his art.
Mohbad's contribution to the Nigerian music scene will undoubtedly be remembered and celebrated. His music, particularly from the Light and Blessed albums, will continue to resonate with listeners, offering a glimpse into the mind and soul of a talented artist.
Like other musicians who died before him, Mohbad will continue to shine his light to keep the Nigerian music industry blessed.
Note: I'm currently in between jobs. Please, I would appreciate writing gigs or full-time positions at a publishing outfit as a journalist or an editor.