If you’re a resident of Lagos or have ever had the (mis) fortune of driving through Nigeria’s most populous city, you know the traffic can be utterly maddening. Standstill traffic in immense heat is a way of life, and what should be a 30-minute commute can easily turn into a 3-hour nightmare.
In all of the madness that is Lagos traffic, music just has a way of taking off the pressure for a minute, this 7-song playlist would get you in the groove and get you in a happy groove.
‘Adenuga’ – Joeboy ft. Qing Madi
Despite being a love-inclined song, Adenuga is just that song. If you have good ears for music, then you just know this is the song. At first, you are introduced to Joeboy’s powerful vocals, and then Qing Madi comes in so smoothly to serenade listeners for a beautiful minute. Who knows, you might fall in love with a hawker that gives you “jara” Gala.
‘Bad Vibes’ – Ayra Starr ft. Seyi Vibez
The thing with this song is, it’s a confession for greatness, so while people are cursing at each other in the heat of the moment, you’re in your own lane avoiding the Bad Vibes and looking to get your coins!
‘Tshwala Bam (Remix)’ – TitoM ft. Yuppe, Burna Boy, S.N.E
Just when we thought the original song was a hit, this remix with Burna Boy is the medicine you need to distract yourself from the hustle and bustle of Lagos. In no time, you’d find yourself bopping and singing along even if you cannot pronounce the lyrics.
‘Ilashe’ – Ruger ft BNXN
The rent for Ruger and Bnxn must have been overdue because they delivered so well on this song off their RnB EP. Ilashe is that catchy tune to get you through the day. Perfect for the ride on Third Mainland Bridge or Ikoyi Bridge, if you ask me.
‘Stubborn’ – Victony ft Asake
‘Stubborn’ is the perfect upbeat song for Lagos traffic. The beats, smooth vocals, and lyrics about basically not taking nonsense provides the mood-boosting vibe to power through with determination and positive vibes. This is particularly for those on the mainland and outlands (Ikorodu, Ajangbadi, Epe, Abule Egba, Meran et al).
‘Everyday’ – Fireboy DML
This song is a definite must-have on your traffic playlist to instantly put you in the right mood. The intro chords alone are so infectious and energetic, you’ll be bobbing your head before the vocals even kick in. And when Fireboy’s smooth, buttery voice finally enters, gliding perfectly over the beat, there’s no way you would not jam to this song.
‘Hmmm’- Chris Brown ft. Davido
This track is a masterpiece where both artists seamlessly blend their talents. Davido and Chris Brown both brought their A-game, effortlessly trading verses and blending their vocals. It’s nearly impossible to distinguish who’s taking the lead – they simply vibe in perfect synergy.
Davido undoubtedly delivered, pouring his signature Afrobeats flair into each bar and Chris Brown matched that energy, complementing with his trademark smooth R&B vocals.
So there you have it – the ultimate traffic jam playlist to turn those Lagos traffic blues into an impromptu dance party! But we want to hear from you as well. What other feel-good jams would you add to your traffic playlist?
