The dialogue around mental health in Nigeria has recently intensified, mirroring a global trend. But despite this progress, there remains a significant hurdle in dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health and ensuring comprehensive care for individuals grappling with various mental health disorders. Imagine a nation of over 200 million people served by a mere 250 psychiatrists, according to the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria. The numbers speak for themselves: mental health services are woefully inadequate and inaccessible.
Music, however, is accessible. While it is not an outright alternative to professional care, research suggests it can lessen the impact of depression and anxiety. As Nigerian superstar, Fireboy DML recently shared on Twitter, “thank you, God, for music. man for don mad.”, highlighting how many people have found music as some form of succor.
In this context, Nigerian audiences have coined the term “Afro-Depression” to describe music that appears to tackle mental health themes, with Omah Lay hailed as its trailblazer. From his breakout hit “Bad Influence” to his highly praised debut album “Boy Alone,” Omah Lay consistently embraces vulnerability in his music, openly confessing his struggles and confronting his inner demons. By articulating shared experiences often left unspoken, Omah Lay’s music has resonated deeply with listeners. They see it as some form of therapy.
In this article, we spotlight artistes who, much like Omah Lay, have used their music as an outlet to express the universal emotions that we all face. Their songs are safe havens that make us feel seen
These are the new frontrunners of “Afro Depression:
1. Llona
“I’m tired of this pain so I’m steady on this trips. Smoking loud in the morning, only time I feel at peace. Really never feel at peace, does it have to be like this”
Llona (’Nobody’)
The singer-songwriter from Kogi state is yet to release a song that isn’t “Afro-Depression”. From his initial singles like “Nobody” and “Comforter” to his breakthrough track “HBP” and its remix, and most recently with his 2024 release “How I Live,” Llona has bared his soul, recounting tales of his struggles and his relentless pursuit of solace. As anticipation builds for his debut body of work, Llona has shown his boldness and talent for making music that exposss man’s deepest and darkest thoughts.
2. Tariq
“I never knew that sacrificing fears go be heavy load. Conversations with my demons happening on the go”
Tar1q (’dEar INsEcUritieS’)
Tar1q’s debut project, ‘Son of The Moon’ offers a glimpse into the artiste’s unique take on love and relationships. The EP kicks off with “eMoTions,” where Tar1q grapples with the dilemma of choosing between two lovers. In the subsequent tracks, he croons to one or both of his paramours. On the sultry fourth song, “bE mInE”, he enlists Blaqbonez and Ria Sean to tell tales of passion and desire.
In a poignant turn, the final track reveals Tar1q’s vulnerability as he opens up about his personal journey and background and shares his resolution not to let his past define his future. The track titled, “dEaR INsEcUritieS” paints the picture of the typical Nigerian young man who must against all odds make their way out of the “ghetto”.
Making it out often comes at a cost. As the hustler dedicates quality time to their grind, they sometimes find that they have lesser time for friends and family. If time is not properly managed and balance is not quickly struck, this can strain relationships. This is the message of “Away”, the opener of Tar1q’s sophomore project, “All I Felt”. On the BMH-produced track addressed to a lost friend, he shares the urgency and time-sensitivity of his mission, how it has changed his life and why he has to stay away.
Tar1q is not primarily an “Afro Depression” artiste in the order of Omah Lay and Llona. He explores other topics especially those around love and romance, but he’s shown glimpses of his ability to share, in his music, experiences unique to him but universally felt.
3. Lucid
“Righteous boy I am, But this life turn me to sinner man. And each time I do the best I can, Something go turn me to hooligan”
Lucid (’Hooligan’)
Lucid’s music, particularly in his debut EP and latest two-pack single, explores themes of vulnerability, past struggles, and complex emotions – all hallmarks of “Afro-depression”. His ability to connect with fans through personal storytelling strengthens his place in this movement.
His debut EP, “HI I’M LULU,” feels like an introduction to his soul. It’s a collection of stories from his personal experience. It’s described as “filled with ‘biographical stories’, ‘captivating lyrics’ and ‘seductive writings’.” Tracks like “Therapy”, “Blessings” and “Flat Tyre” peel back layers, revealing a depth and honesty rarely seen in mainstream music.
Lucid’s latest release, a two-pack single titled “Hooligan” and “Why,” further solidifies his place in this movement. “Hooligan” reflects the artist’s inner conflict, Lucid invites fans to ponder the complexities of navigating life’s challenges while staying true to oneself. Why” is an emotional rollercoaster that delves deep into the complexities of love and relationships.
4. Magixx
“Show me all the loving now when I still dey alive o. Cause all the pain and all of the pressure make a man fall to depression”
Magixx (’Okay’)
Known for his charming vocals and infectious melodies in love songs like “Love Don’t Cost a Dime” and “All Over,” Magixx might be a surprise appearance on this list to some. But beyond the catchy hooks and romantic serenades, Magixx has also shown the ability to bare his emotions in his music.
On “Motivate Yourself”, the last track off his self titled debut Ep, he talks the self-belief and confidence needed to chase your dreams. He also shares his moments of doubt. “When I’m looking at the mirror / All I see is me / All my imperfection and my insecurities,” he confesses, stripping away the facade.
On his latest single, “Okay”, the vulnerability is laid bare even further. The lyrics in “Okay” hint at feelings of isolation and a struggle to navigate a world that can feel unsupportive. Magixx speaks for a generation grappling with the weight of the world on their shoulders, a generation battling not just external pressures, but the demons within.
5. Bloody civilian
“Shoulda smoked that shit since morning, But, my ancestors are watching. My country give me nothing, and economy is falling.”
Bloody Civilian (’Escapism’)
A striking addition to this list and a breath of fresh air to the Nigerian music scene, Bloody Civilian is carving a unique path with her music that’s as raw as it is captivating.
Bloody Civilian’s debut EP, “Anger Management,” isn’t your typical afrobeats body of work. It’s a battle cry against the invisible walls that limit potential. Her music simmers with a potent mix of anger, frustration, and a deep yearning for self-expression. Music critics have lauded her lyrics for their fierce critique of societal pressures, particularly those placed upon women. From stifling family expectations to the constant need to prove oneself, Bloody Civilian confronts these issues head-on with her sharp lyricism.
Is Bloody Civilian solely focused on Afro-depression? Perhaps not. As she masterfully blends electronic elements with Afrobeats and dancehall, she creates a soundscape that’s both familiar and unsettling. Her vocals shift effortlessly between soulful R&B and swaggering hip-hop, mirroring the emotional complexity of her message. The raw honesty and vulnerability in her lyrics resonates with the core of Afro-depression – the struggle to navigate societal expectations while grappling with unspoken burdens.
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