“Stubborn” by Victony: A Comprehensive Album Review

“Stubborn,” the debut album by Nigerian artist Victony, was released on June 21st, 2024. The album, containing 16 tracks and spanning 48 minutes and 42 seconds, features a diverse range of collaborations with artists such as Asake, KTIZO, Teezo Touchdown, SAINT JHN, Shallipopi, and Shorae Moore. Produced under Victony with the exclusive license of Encore Recordings, this album is a testament to Victony’s growth and his bold musical experimentation. Stubborn falls primarily within the Afrobeat genre, but it incorporates elements of R&B, trap, and others.

Album Overview “Stubborn”

About the Album “Stubborn”

Though he made a name for himself with his 2017 hip-hop mixtape The Outlaw King, subsequent EPs Saturn (2020) and Outlaw (2022), and a string of hits including “Pray” and “Holy Father” (with Mayorkun), Victony leans into the idea of reintroduction with Stubborn. This 2024 debut album represents a fully realized version of Victony, showcasing his boldness and experimental spirit across 16 tracks. Victony’s maverick approach to music is evident as he blends various sounds and moods.

“With Outlaw, I tried to let people know that I am different,” Victony tells Apple Music. “Here, I’m continuing with that stubbornness, telling people we haven’t switched lanes. I’m still about being me regardless of who likes it or not. And just reflecting back on everything that I have been through and where I’m coming from—because it’s not necessarily a land of dreams. It’s not easy to be from Lagos. You have to be hopeful, because there’s not much to give you hope around you. Victony is resilient, and I feel like this album truly represents who I am now.”

“Stubborn” Tracks and Their Stories

• “Oshaprapra” (with Shorae Moore): “Oshaprapra” is a Yoruba term for shining. Victony uses it metaphorically to reflect his journey through hardships while still glowing. Shorae Moore’s melodies inspired Victony to enhance the song, making it a powerful introduction to the album.
• “Anita”: Produced by P2J, this track incorporates amapiano elements in a unique way. Victony expresses his excitement about being part of this new movement while maintaining his distinctive style.
• “Everything”: This is the oldest record on the album, produced by Blaise Beatz. Inspired by Post Malone and Swae Lee’s “Sunflower,” Victony created an Afrobeats version with their permission, highlighting his creative range.
• “Risk”: Produced by P.Priime, “Risk” carries the energy of the album’s title track, “Stubborn.” It combines elements of trap, Afrobeats, and Fuji melodies, showcasing Victony’s innovative musical fusion.
• “Tiny Apartment” (with SAINT JHN): This collaboration with SAINT JHN, one of Victony’s top influences, resulted in a magical blend of their worlds. The track reflects the feeling of missing a lover in a cramped space, with SAINT JHN directing the spoken-word intro.
• “Slow Down” (with Teezo Touchdown): This track, produced by Nineteen85, features Teezo Touchdown, whose unique style intrigued Victony. The session took time but resulted in a perfect blend of their familiar melodies.
• “Stubborn” (with Asake): The title track inspired the album’s direction. Victony reflects on life and gratitude while reaffirming his identity. Asake’s contribution perfectly complements the song’s bold character.
• “Kolo (Kolomental II)”: Written on the same day as “Stubborn,” this track represents a different phase in Victony’s life. It’s a continuation of the “Kolomental” theme from his Outlaw EP but with a new perspective.
• “Pier 46” (with KTIZO): Created in an experimental mood, Victony wondered what Billie Eilish would sound like on an Afrobeats track. This session in LA with Hoodini led to a unique blend of styles.
• “Sunday School”: Produced by P2J, this track is a groovy heartbreak song with sad lyrics but an upbeat feel. It’s a special record that blends pain with danceable rhythms.
• “Street Affair”: Another track made in LA, “Street Affair” is a prayerful reflection on recent hardships. It’s a fitting end to the album, starting with prayer and closing with reaffirmation and gratitude.

Features and Collaborations

The album boasts impressive collaborations with artists like Asake, KTIZO, Teezo Touchdown, SAINT JHN, Shallipopi, and Shorae Moore. Each artist brings their unique style, enriching the album’s diversity and depth. These collaborations highlight Victony’s ability to blend his sound with different musical influences seamlessly.

“Stubborn” Tracklist:

Musical Composition

Arrangement and Instrumentation

The musical arrangement of Stubborn is rich and varied, featuring a mix of traditional Afrobeats instrumentation and modern electronic elements. The beats are dynamic, and the melodies are catchy, often blending different genres to create a unique sound. The album’s structure is well-thought-out, with each track flowing smoothly into the next.

Song Structure

Each song on the album has a clear structure, typically comprising an intro, verse, chorus, and bridge. The intros set the tone, the verses tell the story, the choruses are memorable and catchy, and the bridges provide a contrast that keeps the listener engaged.

Vocal Performance

Victony’s vocal performance throughout the album is exceptional. He showcases his versatility by switching between singing and rapping, often within the same track. His delivery is emotive and powerful, drawing the listener into his world. The collaborations also highlight his ability to harmonize and blend his voice with others seamlessly.

Quality and Techniques

The production quality of Stubborn is top-notch. The mixing and mastering ensure that each track sounds crisp and clear. Unique sound effects and production techniques, such as the use of traditional instruments alongside modern beats, make the album stand out. The creative use of samples and the seamless integration of different musical elements showcase the high level of craftsmanship involved.

Stream “Stubborn” Album:

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