Since her debut dance hall single, Ibadi in 2014, Niniola and Sarz collaborated on several hit making masterpieces becoming one of the most iconic artist-producer duos in the Afrobeats scene. Their partnership has consistently pushed the boundaries of Afro-house and Afrobeats, creating a signature sound that blends rhythmic, high-energy beats with Niniola's distinctive vocals.
The Breakthrough: "Maradona" (2017)
Their defining moment came with the release of "Maradona" in 2017 following her 2014 debut, “Ibadi” and “Soke” in 2015.
The track, produced by Sarz, catapulted Niniola to international fame. With its infectious rhythm and catchy hook, "Maradona" became a major hit not only in Nigeria but also in South Africa, where it earned gold and platinum certifications by RISA. The song's success opened doors for Niniola on the global stage, earning her a Grammy nomination when the track was sampled in Beyoncé’s "Find Your Way Back" from The Lion King: The Gift soundtrack.
"Sicker" (2017)
Later in 2017, the duo returned with "Sicker," a follow-up to "Maradona" that solidified their signature sound—an eclectic mix of Afro-house beats driven by Sarz’s masterful production. Niniola’s powerful vocals and charismatic energy made the track another fan favorite, keeping their momentum strong.
"Designer" (2019)
In 2019, Niniola and Sarz teamed up again for "Designer," a bouncy, high-tempo Afro-house tune that dominated the airwaves. Sarz’s production added depth to Niniola's playful lyrics, and the song became a club anthem across Africa.
"Omo Rapala" (2019)
Their streak continued with "Omo Rapala," a fun and energetic track that further showcased their synergy. Niniola's cheeky delivery, matched with Sarz’s intricate production, highlighted the versatility of their collaborations, allowing them to maintain their relevance in the Afro-house scene.
"Fantasy" (2020)
In early 2020, they delivered another standout collaboration, "Fantasy," featuring Nigerian music legend Femi Kuti. This song fused Afrobeat and Afro-house elements, with Sarz blending modern and traditional sounds seamlessly. The track was praised for its unique sound and further showcased Sarz’s ability to innovate within the genre.
"Addicted" and "Colours and Sounds" (2020)
On her 2020 album Colours and Sounds, Niniola enlisted Sarz for several standout tracks, including "Addicted"—a track that speaks to her unique blend of Afrobeats and Afro-house. Their collaborations on this album received critical acclaim, with Sarz’s production perfectly complementing Niniola’s thematic exploration of love and life.
The Legacy
Niniola and Sarz’s collaboration is a testament to their musical chemistry and their ability to consistently produce hits that resonate with both African and global audiences. Their decade-long partnership has redefined the sound of Afro-house, making them a powerhouse duo in contemporary African music.
As they continue to create together, Niniola and Sarz remain at the forefront of innovation in Afrobeats, consistently setting trends and elevating African music on the world stage.
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