(Lagos, Nigeria – July 24, 2025) Global Afrobeats trailblazer Asake returns with a new single, “Badman Gangsta,” distributed via gamma. Featuring acclaimed French artist Tiakola, the track is a swaggering yet soulful celebration of self-made success. It blends sounds, languages, and cultures into a smooth, sun-drenched anthem.
“Badman Gangsta” marks Asake’s first release since February’s “Why Love,” ushering in a bold new chapter in his evolving sound. The track also serves as the latest preview of his upcoming album Money, officially announced earlier this month.
A visually striking music video accompanies the release, channeling the track’s raw energy and borderless spirit through bold, cinematic storytelling. The accompanying video compiles black and white scenes of Asake’s elevated day-to-day life, from Paris Fashion Week to creating music around the world, captured with a vintage feel.
Anchored by a nostalgic sample of iconic R&B artist Amerie’s iconic “1 Thing,” the production layers Asake’s airy vocals with silky acoustic guitar riffs and smoky saxophone flourishes. The result is an atmospheric, genre-defying track that captures the duality of Asake’s artistry: bold but introspective, grounded yet untouchable.
Asake and Tiakola trade verses in English, Yoruba, and French, their flows effortlessly weaving between vulnerability and bravado. Lyrically, “Badman Gangsta” feels like a personal mantra. It’s about owning the grind, embracing the chaos, and staying thankful through it all.
“‘Badman Gangsta’ is a page from my real life. It’s about owning your space, your struggles, your blessings, all at once,” says Asake. “Working with Tiakola brought a whole new flavor to the track. We come from different places but speak the same language when it comes to vibe, feeling, and ambition.”
“I’ve been listening to Asake for a long time. He has the full package of the greats. There are a lot of similarities in our musicality and in the way we create, says Tiakola. “Above our different languages and cultures, the message in our music is universal, and our chemistry natural.”
With “Badman Gangsta,” Asake continues to redefine what Afrobeats can be. His sound is genreless, global, and deeply personal, proving once again why he’s one of the most original voices in music today.
“Badman Gangsta” is available now on all streaming platforms. For more information and future project announcements, follow Asake on Instagram @asakemusic.
