Every so often, a song comes along that does more than just sound good–it feels good. Ayanfe’s ‘Laba Laba’ is one of those songs. First released in 2023 with DJ Latitude, the track was an instant fan favorite, merging soulful melodies with deep Afrobeat rhythms. Now, with a remix released in 2024 featuring the incredible Fireboy DML, the song takes on a new life, richer, deeper, and even more intoxicating.
But it doesn’t stop there. Olu The Wave, one of the most innovative directors in the Nigerian music scene, has brought the song to life with a stunning visual experience released on Thursday the 8th of March, 2025–one that doesn’t just match the energy of the song but elevates it to a whole new dimension.
In Yoruba, Laba Laba means butterfly, a fitting metaphor for love in all its beauty and fragility. Ayanfe masterfully weaves a tale of romance and longing, delivering each lyric with effortless grace. His voice, smooth and compelling, pulls listeners into a world of devotion, desire, and the fear of losing it all. Somehow, he gives a song with such heartfelt and passionate lyrics, an extra layer of playfulness that makes it even more enjoyable to listen to, especially because it gives listeners an unexpected smile as they listen.
Fireboy DML’s presence on the remix is nothing short of perfection. Known for his ability to turn emotions into melodies, he slides into the song with the kind of vocal finesse that makes it impossible to ignore. His verse is heartfelt, his delivery precise, and together with Ayanfe, he transforms the song into an unforgettable Afrobeat classic.
One of the most underrated yet crucial elements of ‘Laba Laba’ is its exquisite production. Crafted by the incredibly talented Wckedd, the beat is a perfect balance of smoothness and intensity.
At its core, the instrumental is silky and fluid, yet bouncy and dynamic. The thunderous log drum patterns give it a distinct Amapiano groove, while the Afrobeat-infused rhythms ensure that the song never loses its emotional pull. There’s an air of sophistication in how the beats are layered, allowing both Ayanfe and Fireboy’s vocals to glide effortlessly.
It’s the kind of production that doesn’t just complement the artists, it elevates them, creating a sound that lingers long after the song ends.
Then comes the music video–a vibrant, visually arresting masterpiece directed by Olu The Wave. From the very first frame, it’s clear that this isn’t just any Afrobeat video; this is a work of art.
The screen explodes with color; gold, yellow, red, green, blue, and orange–creating a luxurious, dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly mirrors the song’s emotions. The visuals are bold, striking, and endlessly captivating, with every frame offering something fresh and exciting.
The scene transitions are seamless, keeping the energy alive as Ayanfe and Fireboy DML navigate through a world of elegance, passion, and effortless cool. But it’s the fashion that takes things to another level.
The video is a celebration of style and culture, featuring stunning women dressed in regal attire, their presence adding an air of grandeur and sophistication. Ayanfe and Fireboy themselves serve nothing but presence and steeze, switching between baggy streetwear fits, tailored semi-corporate ensembles, and effortlessly cool casual looks.
Be it dressed in a relaxed manner in jackets, sneakers, and baggy pants or stepping into formal yet fashionable suits complete with ties, their confidence is undeniable. Their charisma is magnetic, and with each subtle movement, each glance, each pose and gesture, they effortlessly embody the song’s essence.
But the video isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about feeling. There’s an undeniable energy running through every shot–a cool yet playful aura, a balance of romance and excitement.
It’s the kind of visual that doesn’t just complement the song but enhances it, making ‘Laba Laba’ more than just music. It’s an experience, an utterly thrilling one.
In an industry where collaborations often feel forced or formulaic, ‘Laba Laba’ stands as a testament to genuine synergy. Ayanfe and Fireboy don’t just share the song, they own it together, each bringing their unique artistry while maintaining a beautiful, effortless chemistry.
And with Wckedd’s phenomenal production and Olu The Wave’s visionary direction, this isn’t just another Afrobeat release, it’s a moment in music history.
With ‘Laba Laba (Remix)’ already making waves, fans are eagerly waiting to see what’s next for Ayanfe. If this collaboration proves anything, it’s that he’s more than ready for the global stage.
For now, all we can do is hit replay, vibe to the magic, and watch as this butterfly takes flight.
