The idea of gospel music to many, is a vague space, characterized by uncertainty and stereotyped views. People tend to have a fixed idea of what it should be, the nature of its sound, it’s lyrical inclinations and the overall execution. With these myopic expectations, the struggle to express the many dynamics to gospel music has become paramount, though not an easy journey. However, the gospel artists in the Nigerian space, especially these younger generations of artists, have relentlessly proven that they can be everything least expected, and more, having explored a variety of other genres (RnB, jazz, contemporary pop, and more) and infusing them into their craft. Ultimately, they have proven that many roads lead home, and what’s most important is finding home, and exalting God through their craft.
Sal Ly is an Afro Urban artist, who describes herself as one who is many things at once, and this self perception reflects in her music, which encompasses a delightful variety of styles and sound. Prior to the release of her extended playlist ‘Premiere’, which she describes as the first of many, she has graced the industry with a number of beautiful melodies, preparing us for what lies ahead, introducing her style and carving out a niche for herself; basically making the path straight for the greatness that awaits. ‘Affirmation,’ ‘I’m Good’ and ‘All Love’ are songs from Sal Ly, with which she won the hearts of listeners with her daring, Hip Hop adventures.
Premiere won my heart, right from the intro, ‘Been a Long Time.’ Here, Sal Ly speaks about her journey as a musician, and how it has always been what she wanted to do. She hints at her supportive family background, and the things that motivate her voice and confidence as an artist. She says, ‘This is what I came here for. I can only see what lies in front of me. Ama Stay wide awake.’ This is her signature, she has stamped her presence, clearly stating that she’s here for a long time, for the thrill of it and everything else in between. This intro prompted the realization of three phrases with which I’d describe Sal Ly’s music: Spirit Lifting, Sugar Well, and Feel Good music.
Look Alive begins with Oshey’s rap, gradually easing into Sal Ly’s singing, which is a beautiful blend. It is a pleasant wake up call. The robotic texture of the hook is a nice frenzy, and would make you just want to groove. But, be careful not to be too carried away, as the lyrics hold even more beautiful messages. Technically, by saying ‘look alive’, Sal Ly says ‘Stand well. You dey lose concentration?’ Trust the rhythm has enough electricity to jerk one into focus.
Drip is definitely a favourite off Premiere. Bethel Olaje’s feature on Drip is definitely tactical and refreshing. The Beyonce vibes oozing from Bethel is one that will be spotted at first listen. At first listen, one would probably go, ‘Wait, is this Beyonce!’ No, it’s not. It’s the phenomenal Bethel Olaje working her magic into Drip. Sal Ly does not fail to employ urban style in this track, with the usage of ‘Drip.’ She says, ‘I’ve got a drip.’ Drip is a popular urban slang, symbolic of an extremely fashionable or sexy style. Sal Ly tells us that, yes, a relationship with God is indeed the most beautiful thing, and will never be out of style. It is something to be uphold, and even worn with much pride as though a newly purchased designers fit. God will never be old fashioned, she tells us.
Without You comes with a slow tempo, a subtle vibe, in contrast to the previous tracks. It has a slow dance feel, which is good as it enables us focus and reflect on the lyrics. Here, she tells how God is everything, and a dance with Him, will be a forever craving. Vontrap’s rap is soft, slow paced and easy to take in, to fit the overall vibe of the song. Without you is soothing, like the feel of fresh air making its way through a window just opened. All you have to do is breathe it in and let yourself be intoxicated.
Like You is a reflection of man made in the image and likeness of the Almighty. Sal Ly expresses how she sees God in herself. She says, ‘I get to walk in your shoes.’ AyaGrace’s spoken words are beautiful additions, and a good break, before Sal Ly’s racing verse that follows, which is also a nice vibe to the song. She speaks of a woman who has walked through fire and evolved into a phenomenal being.
Can’t Wait is the Afro beat junction. Sal Ly speaks about after life, and her longing to meet God, after this life—how she longs to behold God in all His glory. She says, ‘I can’t wait to see your face, I can’t wait till for when you take me away. My home is waiting for me.’ This track is well positioned, as its vibe leads us to what seems to be an end road of a good journey. The song ends with soft chants in Sal ly’s native language, in honour of God, which creates an ethereal feel—something foreign, different and otherworldly, just as the song speaks of another world. Can’t wait, alongside Drip, will certainly be a favourite to many. This is mainly attributed to the familiar feel the Afro beats has going for it.
Swerve is a nice closure for this project. Sal Ly says, ‘I got joy and it can never be depleted.’ She says she’s covered by the Spirit and is undefeated. She says, Swerve. She’s here for a good time and a long time. She’s up high with the Most High, way above trials and obstacles. She speaks words of affirmation into existence, exercising her faith, unapologetically and freely. She shares her confidence with co-believers, calling them to join in the feast, tap into this faith and be assured that it’s going to be okay—perfect ending. Sal Ly says, it’s going to be fine.
