There are days when we feel like outcasts in our own bodies – dark days when we feel overwhelmed by life’s numerous challenges. Abruptly, moods begin to swing like the Nigerian economy and sometimes all we need to calm the storm is a song that says “hey, you will be alright.”
Sometimes, these songs may sound happy and bubbly, but are in fact sad and relatable. They tell stories we yearn to hear and serve as canvas with which the music artists use to create soulful sonic art that end up leaving listeners in healthier mental spaces. Here is a list of our favourite 5.
It’s Okay To Cry – Yinka Bernie ft. Joyce Olong
This is an indie cult classic. ‘It’s Okay To Cry’ is one sad, but uplifting song that you never think you need until you listen to it. The catchy and melodious tune weighs in deeply about much needed mental and physical solitude which is caused by an overt feeling of anguish. Both alternative singers paint the perfect sonic image of self-love, self discovery and self acceptance.
In Between – Ayra Starr
‘In Between’ is a song from Ayra Starr’s debut album ‘19 & Dangerous’. The record is solemn, reflective and inquisitive. It tells the tale of a confused and heavy ladened protagonist who is simply drowning in her own waterloo and is desperately searching for answers. Although the song is a sad reflection, Ayra’s soft and soothing vocals compliment the beautiful music production to give it a goosebumpy effect that will invariably catch listeners off-guard while singing excitedly along to its melodies.
Airplane Mode – Fireboy DML
Fireboy DML’s ‘Airplane Mode’ is certainly one of those records you revisit time after time, especially if you are feeling overwhelmed and clamour for some quality “alone-time”. The song speaks about an innate and plaintive desire to escape from life’s incessant brouhahas. Indefinitely, listening to ‘Airplane Mode’ will ease some pressure off heavy minds as there is a sudden realisation that even superstars are going through life and it is not all out to get only the average Joe.
How Bad Could It Be – Burna Boy
Really, how bad could things be? Life may be proving very difficult, but even in the midst of the constant adversities, depression and anxiety, there is always a better pictorial view. This is the message Nigerian superstar, Burna Boy is trying to pass across to music listeners. ‘How Bad Could It Be’ is just as sad as it is motivational. It is one of the tracks on Burna Boy’s ‘Love, Damini’ that promote optimism and mental health.
Peace Of Mind – Rema
Peace Of Mind’ is arguably one of Rema’s finest deliveries ever. While Rema dived into touchy subjects with the song, he and music producer Kel P made sure the groovy and mid-tempo paced amapiano beat created a perfect mood balance as listeners are able to dance happily whilst reflecting on the sad and unfortunate happenings in our society as pinpointed by the singer/songwriter.
Bomi Anifowose is a creative trying to navigate planet earth one simple step at a time. When he is not writing about the creative arts, or singing, he is somewhere in Utopia.
Great work Bomi.
Thank you a whole lot!