D'banj: The Entertainer's Grand Return with 'The Entertainer: D'Sequel'

"How can I be back when I never left?!"

For folks who were around in 2004, it can be jarring to reminiscence on what the Afrobeats terrain looked like at the time, of course fully aware that the genre didn’t have that exact appellation at the time. It’s something of a catch-22: at only twenty+ years old, the genre is still quite young. At the same time, twenty years is a long time; and as the saying goes, so many waters have gone under the bridge. One of the figures that have stayed through it all, is D’banj. Through good times, bad times, and now, new times, Dbanj has always raised his hand to be counted. No matter how anybody feels about his artistry, that cannot be a bad thing.

Last week, he rolled out his new album, The Entertainer: D’Sequel. Over the many many years, D’banj has remained an enduring chapter in Afrobeats’ rise and global takeover, and with the release of his new album, The Entertainer: D'Sequel,  D'banj revisits the heights he first reached in 2008 with The Entertainer, the album that solidified his status as an Afrobeats icon. Yet, while D'banj might be returning to familiar territory, the music scene has transformed around him. In this current landscape, the album is both a nostalgic reminder of his golden years and a fresh chapter in his storied career.

To appreciate The Entertainer: D'Sequel, one must understand the weight of its predecessor. Released in 2008, The Entertainer wasn't just an album; it was a cultural moment. The project featured hits like "Gbono Feli Feli," "Suddenly," and "Fall in Love," songs that dominated the airwaves and dance floors across Nigeria and beyond. The album was the apex of D'banj's partnership with Don Jazzy, the producer who helped craft the sound that became synonymous with Mo'Hits Records. Together, they ushered in an era where Afrobeats began its ascent to global recognition.

Fast forward to 2024, and the release of The Entertainer: D'Sequel comes at a time when Afrobeats has exploded into a global phenomenon. The genre's sound has evolved, and newer stars have emerged to carry the torch. Yet, amid this shift, D'banj remains a vital force. His new album, crafted in collaboration with Temple Management, a creative powerhouse, is not just a sequel to an old story; it is a statement that D'banj is still very much in the game.

The listening party, held last week, was a testament to D'banj's enduring appeal. The event drew a crowd of music enthusiasts, industry insiders, and longtime fans, all eager to witness the next chapter of the Kokomaster's journey.

The Entertainer: D'Sequel is a project that bridges the past and the present. The album features collaborations with some of the most legendary figures in African and global music, including Youssou N'Dour, Akon, Awilo Longomba, Phyno, Timaya, and Wyclef Jean. These collaborations are not just a nod to D'banj's past achievements but a reflection of his ability to remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry. Ultimately, the album is a celebration of D'banj's versatility as an artist and his knack for bringing together diverse musical influences.

Beyond the music, The Entertainer: D'Sequel is also a celebration of D'banj's 20th anniversary in the industry—a remarkable feat in a business where careers can be fleeting. His partnership with Temple Management has been instrumental in making this milestone truly special. The creative team has not only supported the album's production but has also spearheaded a series of events and initiatives that underscore D'banj's legacy. From exclusive listening sessions to documentary features, the roll-out has been as much about honouring D'banj's past as it has been about embracing his future.

In an industry where trends come and go, D'banj's ability to remain is a testament to his talent and charisma. He may no longer dominate the charts as he once did, but his influence is undeniable. The fact that he can still draw a crowd, collaborate with global icons, and release an album that resonates with both old and new fans speaks volumes about his staying power.

As D'banj celebrates two decades in the spotlight, The Entertainer: D'Sequel serves as a reminder that while the Afrobeats sound may have evolved, the essence of what makes D'banj an icon remains unchanged. He is, and always will be, the ultimate entertainer—one who knows how to command the stage, captivate an audience, and create moments that linger long after the music stops. Twenty years in, D'banj is still a Nigerian music success story, and The Entertainer: D'Sequel is proof that his star continues to shine brightly. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, this album offers something for everyone—a celebration of the past, present, and future of one of Africa's most enduring music legends.