Samuel Osamudiamen, popularly known as Samzy is a US-based, Nigerian rapper and songwriter, soaring in the Hip-hop / Rap, Afro beat and R&B genres—he started making music as far back as 2015. In 2019, Sazmy returned to Nigeria, during which the song “Red Dots” (The third track of Trendsetter, The EP) featuring Rema, was birthed. In his words, “I came back home because I see myself as a Nigerian and my country comes first to me before any other thing.”
On Wednesday November 11, 2020, a private listening session was held, in preparation for the release of his extended playlist on November 13. This session hosted some reputable individuals, cutting across a number of renowned African media—seated to grace the hearing of the phenomenal project. Excitement filled the air, as everyone was delighted to experience this occasion. After a brief introduction, Samzy expressed his excitement, hopes and gratitude towards the fruition of Trendsetter, The EP. He speaks on his journey, and how he intends to do something ground breaking for the Africa through his music, and most importantly, do something distinguishing for himself, through his very unique sound.
The listening session began immediately, with each song of the extended playlist coming on air.
Without wasting any time, Samzy goes on clearly state his stance and intentions for the music industry in the title track, Trendsetter. He says, “I’m a trendsetter.”
Samzy subtly suggests supports coming from home as he says, “Mama says, you’re a starboy.” This bold touch of confidence is a beautiful starter to this body of work. Nothing says, “No leave, no transfer.” better than that. Samzy sets the pace for the rest of the project with this track, drawing us into his sound, vibe and style in Trendsetter. The quality of delivery and production is next door—it’s not hard to see at all. It’s right there.
On the next track, On Me, there is a spillover of Samzyʼs confidence, though in a new direction. It’s a beautiful vibe, standing out for the sound play on the hook. On Me makes you want to dance. In Red Dots, Rema opens the stage, which is a pleasant formation. Rema does not fail to dazzle the crowd with his very unique delivery. The most interesting thing about this track, is just how beautiful Samzy and Rema blend into one another, forming an unbreakable alloy—a beautiful duo. Red dots has vibes from outer space, with a magical and soothing flow. Although we get to taste more of Rema on this track, Samzyʼs ad lib was a subtly pleasing touch to it. Red Dots will definitely be a favourite to many.
Da Remix stands out for its frenzy saga. The rhythm is impressive. Here, Samzy does not leave any rhythm to waste. He dominates this song with his vibey lyrics from start to finish. He’s in control. Everything is in sync. He talks about his love interest, saying, “My love for you no fit slow down.” However, the song “for the gyals dem” on this EP, is Dutty Luv, the last song of the 5-track EP. In the listening session, Samzy says Dutty Luv is particularly dedicated to his very amazing female fans, a song to appreciate women. “I love the song because it tells a real life story,” Samzy says. “You’re gonna love the video,” he goes on to say, hinting at the release of a music video to Dutty Luv. Dutty Luv will definitely be a favourite to many, for its rhythm, good vibes, and sultry lyrics.
At the end of the listening, the audience had beautiful things to say about Trendsetter, expressing their satisfaction and pleasure, having listened to the project. In addition, some state their expectations going foward, while congratulating Samzy on the release of this daring project—expectations which suggest Samzy should consider exploring other genres, as he has shown himself capable with this project.
Trendsetter is out everywhere. It is a beautiful and wholesome project, through which Samzy says, “I’m here to stay. I’m here for a good time and a long time.” Samzy keeps one foot solidly grounded at home, Africa, ensuring his roots are deeply buried in the soil. Clearly, as he intends, he will do great things for the continent. He is a talent to look out for.
