Emerging Nigerian music act, J-Weezy unleashes his brand new project, “Behind The Smile.”
Immersed in the rhythmic energy that is Lagos, Nigeria, Delta State native J-Weezy (born Joshua Obodo), fell in love with music at a very young age. While studying at Delta State University, his popularity rapidly increased on campus, and by the time he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, his sound was widely accepted both on and off the university grounds.
To say that J-Weezy is a force to be reckoned with would be an understatement. Serving Afro-fusion hits, the singer-songwriter draws inspiration from his RnB and gospel-led influences, to produce sweet melodies and rich harmonies, creating a vibrant experience for all who listen.
The latest EP by the rising star is packed with delicate and salient chord progressions and harmonic percussion, delivering a unique listening experience.
“Behind the Smile” features a variety of sounds from J-Weezy’s unique brand of Afrobeats, Amapiano, Dancehall, and R&B. The project overall takes listeners on a journey, full of high energy, vibrant, reflective, happy and carefree vibes. The talented act showcases his writing, producing, and mixing abilities on this EP, demonstrating his versatility and growth as an artiste.
Initially reserved for Nigerian superstar Davido, the opening track, “Friday” talks about the positive energy one experiences once the weekend comes around. It’s the lead single off the project and has previously been dissected and reviewed on the platform. Be sure to take a look at that article.
“Issue” comes next and features Vibemaster JD, as J-Weezy affirms his stress free lifestyle. The beat is incredibly groovy and catchy, with the singer flowing effortlessly on the laid-down production. He stresses his refusal to let bad vibes in, stating he isn’t in any match-up or competition with anyone, and he’s just trying to maintain his lane and do what he loves. With its message of self-contentment and captivating rhythm, “Issue” stands out as one of the best compositions on the record.
The next tune titled “Toxic,” is a sure crowd-pleaser, and is easily the banger on the EP. Featuring Mystro, “Toxic,” as the name implies, sees the singer expanding on the troubles he faced, while in an unhealthy romantic relationship. Despite the negative aura and downbeat lyricism, J-Weezy does a great job of wrapping it up in an energetic and danceable package. It’s a highly relatable piece, which some listeners might be able to connect to. Appealing and enthralling, the song is another positive highlight on the project.
Track number 4 is called “A Lot,” and it’s a song which he recorded back in 2020 for the EP, “Recur,” but he ended up changing his mind at the last minute, saving it for a later release. “A Lot” comes across as an R&B musical number, with the classic laid-back beat and soothing rhythm to boot. The track finds J-Weezy pondering on the numerous goals he has set for himself, and how the weight of all this can get to him. He tries not to show that these things bring him down, but he admits that sometimes he just can’t hide it. “A Lot” is probably not the most fascinating piece on the record, but it’s one which will really engage listeners due to the content of the lyrics.
Another magnificent piece follows, with “History,” coming as track number 5. J-Weezy is assisted by the gifted Firefly on the chorus. Her pleasant vocals give the song a higher level of dynamism. Backed by a mellow production and soundscape, “History” finds J-Weezy reminiscing on his past and how he plans to rewrite his story. There’s a deep level of introspection on the track, and it melds perfectly with the sound being emanated. Firefly does a great job, providing the necessary ad-libs, just at the right time during the song. “History” is certainly one of the best compositions on the entire record, and amplifies J-Weezy’s determination to be successful.
“Ogologo” is the last song on the EP, as we find J-Weezy basically feeling himself, being proud of his talent and the journey he has had so far. As a whole, it comes off a bit weak when compared to the rest of the other songs, due to its uninspiring lyricism and lack of a proper chorus. Nevertheless, the melody and rhythm do enough to salvage the track.
With this project, J-Weezy is surely ready to take the world by storm. “Behind The Smile” will leave new and old listeners feeling energized, cheerful, and at times push them to look inwards. Go give it a good spin!
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We touched on each track on the project with J-Weezy and discussed what to expect from the rising music act in the coming months. Tune in with the videos below!
Links:
Spotify
Apple
Boomplay
Audiomack
Follow J-Weezy on IG & Twitter: @jweezymynameis