Kizz Daniel has been on an impressive run, one that deserves far more recognition than it gets. Since the release of Lie in 2021 from his commercially acclaimed EP Barnabas, Vado has continued to build his case as one of Afrobeats’ reliable hitmakers. While that title still rests firmly in Davido’s hands, claims in favour of Vado still hold water.
In 2022, he delivered massive hits like Buga and Cough. The following year, he elevated Bnxn’s Gwagwalada and Poco Lee’s Unleash to hit status while also landing solo successes with Twe Twe. His momentum carried into 2024 with Showa, Big Big Things, and Mahraba, solidifying another hit-stacked year. Now, halfway into 2025, Uncle K is making a strong case for Artist of the Year. With standout features on Fola’s Lost and Blaqbonez’s Follow Her, he’s also launched the first instalment of his long-teased Uncle K series, Lemon Chase.
On Uncle K: Lemon Chase album, Kizz Daniel sticks to a straightforward approach both sonically and thematically, avoiding complex experimentation. The album retains the relatability and simplicity that have become hallmarks of his music. On the opener, Black Girl Magic, he employs a simple flow, aided by catchy, easy-to-remember lyrics that convey his message of love. “Make I be your Joseph knack you like carpenter / Make I be your Clyde make we go ride till we die,” he sings over lively production crafted by the triple-threat combo of Bando, Reward Beatz, and Blaise Beatz.
The collaboration between Kizz Daniel and Fola is proving to be a winning formula, first on the buzzing R&B single Lost and now on this project. Their chemistry is undeniable as they exchange sweet nothings with their love interest, Titi, over a Lamba-loaded, dancehall-inflected Afropop beat. Secure blends pulsating Afropop with Fuji elements to create a high-energy, gyration-ready anthem that’s sure to light up any Owambe. Underneath its vibrant sound lies a message for everyday hustlers and the need for financial stability. Both artists stress the importance of money as a shield from stress.
Al Jannah is a sombre reflection on loss and its emotional toll. Odumodublvck and Bella Shmurda build their verses around Vado’s solemn hook, delivering performances that match the gravity of the theme. While both artists rise to the occasion, Bella Shmurda, in particular, feels like he had more to say, and the song would have done with a longer runtime. Peace I Chose, on the other hand, sounds like a Runtown record that Blaise Beatz might have originally crafted for the Soundgod himself. Runtown appears as a guest on the track but unfortunately delivers the weakest feature on the project.
Eyo draws heavily from Asake’s Lungu Boy soundscape, borrowing directly from his song Uh Yeahh while interpolating Chuddy K’s hit record Gaga Crazy. The result is a dance-ready anthem where Kizz Daniel celebrates his success while inviting listeners to join in the revelry. On Police, multi-time Grammy Award winner Angélique Kidjo leaves her mark with a captivating verse, while Kizz Daniel acknowledges her legacy by interpolating lyrics from her 1994 classic Agolo. The record also features a soulful contribution from Johnny Drille, adding depth to an already rich collaboration.
Despite its simplicity and relatability, this album showcases impressive range, both sonically and thematically. Records like Black Girl Magic, Titi, and Police are heartfelt odes to love and devotion. Al Jannah grapples with the pain of loss, while Eyo and Secure centre on success and financial security. Peace I Chose delves into the emotional complexities of romance. Sonically, the project spans Afropop, Neo-Fuji, and dance music, offering a diverse and cohesive listening experience.
With a runtime of just over 17 minutes, the ‘Uncle K: Lemon Chase’ album is packed with replay value. If marketed effectively, it’s poised to deliver at least two major hits. The album is straightforward, accessible, and enjoyable. It’s exactly the kind of music his core fans have come to expect from him and exactly the kind of music he clearly enjoys making.
