ON THE RISE
Nigerian-American artist E'Major is back with his latest single, "Bolo", an infectious fusion of Amapiano and Afrobeat that showcases his unique musical style. Based in Minneapolis but deeply connected to his Nigerian roots, E'Major has been promoting the track in West Africa since its release last month.
"Bolo" is a lively, danceable track produced by Masterkraft, a leading Nigerian producer known for his signature Afrobeat sound. The song features E'Major's smooth vocals layered over a beat that instantly pulls listeners in.
A single snare hit kicks off the song, giving way to a syncopated conga beat over a fast-moving shaker in the background. While the percussion intro evokes the log-drum characteristic of South African amapiano, “Bolo” wastes no time getting right into its distinctive groove. A descending piano melody leads to a keyboard chord progression that persists throughout the entire 3 minutes and 11 seconds. Background vocals and more snare hits make way for E’Major’s silky vocals.
The way you do me, I no know
Dey make me dancey awilo
I know I used to be a player
But I retire like papilo
…
Omo you don scatter my bolo bolo
Scatter my bolo you do scatter my bolo bolo
The single’s upbeat energy and relatable lyrics are sure to resonate with fans worldwide. For the uninitiated, the term "bolo," E'Major explains, is Nigerian slang for "head" or “mind.” When he sings "scatter my bolo," he’s talking about being driven wild in love. Did you ever know somebody who drove you crazy, in the best kind of way? If so, this song is for you.
Emeka Jeremiah Nnaji, born in Nigeria and raised in the United States, is the brainchild behind E'Major. He explains that the stage name is a play on words, combining his name—Emeka—with his preferred musical key, E major. He explains that as a guitarist, E major is the key that he gravitates toward most.
The music video for Bolo, directed by Ara Brownie, brings vibrant West African visuals to the song. Filmed on an island near Lagos, it features horseback riding on the beach, fresh tropical fruits, drinking from coconuts, beautiful dancing women, and a culminating scene of fire dancing at night on the beach. The flirtatious tropical vibes are abundant. "Ara really brought my vision to life," E'Major says.
Drawing inspiration from Afrobeat giants like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido, E'Major sees the genre’s global rise as an opportunity to bring fresh sounds to the forefront. "Afrobeat is in demand right now," he said. "It’s a sound that can blend with other genres, like Amapiano from South Africa."
While “Bolo” is a standalone single, E'Major has plans for a full-length album with his label, Motion Major Records. For now, though, he’s focused on releasing singles to build momentum.
“Bolo” is the latest example of E'Major's ability to blend his African heritage with his American influences, creating music that transcends borders. As E'Major puts it, "This is a song that can connect with everyone from different walks of life."
With his roots in both Nigeria and the U.S., E'Major is on a mission to spread his sound across the globe. Check out “Bolo” today on all streaming platforms and prepare to "scatter your Bolo."
Welcome to SOUND ADVICE, Interview’s weekly space for playlists put together by artists, collaborators, and people from all corners of our circle. Over the past few weeks, we’ve highlighted selections from Zack Fox, Danny L Harle, and Mckayla Twiggs. This latest edition spotlights British French songwriter and producer Lauren Auder, who released her second album, “Whole World as Vigil,” just last week. Created alongside Dviance and Alex Parish, the project explores the emotional layers of human relationships, from the struggles to the moments of beauty. To celebrate the release, we invited Auder to curate a playlist for us and share a few personal insights along the way.
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Where do you dance? In the bedroom.
London or France? Unfair advantage for France, being a whole country.
What song on this playlist is your guilty pleasure? I have no guilty pleasures!
What’s your favorite sound effect? Roblox “OOH” or Bathory’s horse neigh on their album Blood Fire Death.
Dream collab, dead or alive? Lou Reed, obviously.
Who do you trust most with the aux? My roommate, Cajm.
What do you pray about? More time, more rest.
Best arrondissement in Paris? 20th probably?
What song is currently on replay? “Close to the Edge” by Yes.
What album was your coming-of-age soundtrack? Mysterious Phonk: Chronicles of SpaceGhostPurrp.
Tell us a secret. I cheated my way through Latin class in secondary school.
Night or day? Day!
What is your studio session pet peeve? Weed smell :/
Which Skins character did you relate to the most? None, I’m 27!
What are you listening to as you complete this questionnaire? Space heater next to my bed, Italian lesson next door.
What does your notes app look like? Incriminating.
You just arrived at the function. What are you drinking? What are you smoking? Cheap lager or expensive red wine, a Syrah if it’s winter.
The world is ending. What are you wearing True religion jeans and a white button down, as per.
