We Speak Music

UA.X’s Debut Album ‘Love & Hustle’ is a Lush Fusion of Afrobeats and R&B

Published

3 months ago

October 23, 2024

Nigerian-born multi-hyphenate creative Seyi Akinlade, widely known as UA.X, steps from behind the camera to claim the spotlight with his debut album Love & Hustle. Best known for his work as a photographer and music video director for acclaimed artists like Tems, Rema, and Lojay, UA.X now channels his creative vision into a nine-track project that blends the warmth of Afrobeats with the emotional pull of R&B. The result is an intimate and dynamic reflection on love and perseverance, wrapped in a sonic signature that is distinctly his own.

Clocking in at just 21 minutes, Love & Hustle wastes no time immersing listeners in its heartfelt exploration of romance and ambition. UA.X strikes a careful balance between the highs and lows of these themes, with much of the album focusing on love’s multifaceted nature—its beauty, its complexity, and its inevitable discomforts. Tracks like “Money & Love” stand out for their emotive vocal delivery, allowing UA.X to showcase his tender, yet powerful voice against atmospheric production.

Production duties were handled by a mix of top-tier talent including TMXO, Nonso Amadi, and Chillz, ensuring a cohesive and immersive sonic experience. The album’s instrumental palette is rich with tonal warmth—layered rhythms, sultry melodies, and reflective beats that weave seamlessly together. Afrobeats grooves provide the backbone, while the unhurried tempo and spacious R&B melodies invite listeners to soak in each moment. This unhurried pace is where UA.X shines; he allows his music to breathe, creating a cinematic, immersive soundscape that feels expansive yet deeply personal.

Love & Hustle isn’t just a musical project for UA.X, it’s a full-circle moment where his visual storytelling experience meets his sonic craftsmanship. His ability to craft worlds visually in the past translates effortlessly into his music, making each song feel like a scene in a movie—stories of passion, hustle, and self-reflection unravel as he weaves his personal narrative through both lyrics and sound.

With Love & Hustle, UA.X announces himself as an artist to watch. His transition from visual director to musician feels seamless, proving not only his versatility but his dedication to creating art in all its forms. This debut album is a bold statement of intent—both intimate and expansive in its sound, and undeniably memorable. As UA.X continues to carve out his space in the music world, Love & Hustle stands as a testament to his ability to blend passion with perseverance, and art with hustle.

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We Speak Music

The Melodic Magnetism of 424KP’s “2Safe2Say”

Published

38 minutes ago

January 21, 2025

Philomena Marie

424KP’s latest single, “2Safe2Say”, is a testament to his undeniable growth as an artist and his ability to craft music that resonates across borders. The Shanghai-born, UK-raised rapper has carved out a niche for himself by blending cultural influences and a signature melodic rap style that sets him apart in the crowded hip-hop landscape. The track’s fusion of heavy trap beats and melancholic production makes for a compelling listen, reflecting both his personal journey and his ambitions on the global stage.

The production on “2Safe2Say” is hypnotic, seamlessly balancing the hard-hitting energy of trap with a chilled, introspective vibe. The beat is atmospheric, with layered synths and 808s that create a sense of urgency while leaving room for KP’s autotune-laced vocals to shine. His flows are fluid, with a melodic edge that carries the listener through the track’s emotional highs and lows. This duality—raw yet polished—has become a hallmark of KP’s artistry, and it’s on full display here.

KP’s lyrics reveal his vulnerability and depth as a storyteller. Lines reflecting on personal loss and his determination to succeed add layers of authenticity to the track. His bilingual background subtly weaves into his delivery, giving the song an international flair that feels both unique and relatable. It’s this ability to merge personal themes with universal appeal that makes 424KP such a compelling artist to watch.

The music video for “2Safe2Say” elevates the single even further. Set against a snowy, cinematic landscape, it’s a visual feast that complements the track’s moody, introspective tone. KP’s magnetic presence on screen adds to the song’s allure, showcasing his range not just as a musician but as a complete creative force. The visuals are meticulously crafted, reflecting his dedication to artistry beyond just music.

In “2Safe2Say,” 424KP delivers a track that is both a personal statement and a universal anthem. With nearly 250,000 monthly listeners and recognition from global icons, KP is poised for superstardom. This single is more than just music—it’s a declaration of intent from an artist destined to shape the future of hip-hop.