Asake & Wizkid – REAL, Vol. 1 (2026 EP): A Historic Afrobeats Collaboration

REAL, Vol. 1 is a collaborative EP by Nigerian Afrobeats giants Wizkid and Asake, released on January 23, 2026, through Starboy Entertainment, GIRAN Republic, and EMPIRE Distribution. The 4-track project represents a landmark moment in African music, uniting two generations of Afrobeats superstars for a concentrated dose of smooth melodies, street energy, and cultural pride.

Overview

• Title: REAL, Vol. 1

• Artists: Wizkid & Asake

• Release Date: January 23, 2026

• Label: Starboy Entertainment, GIRAN Republic, EMPIRE

• Genre: Afrobeats, Afro-fusion, Street-Pop

• Length: Approximately 10–11 minutes

• Number of Tracks: 4

• Producers: Magicsticks, 4Tunes

The EP’s title, REAL, reflects authenticity, truth, and the genuine connection between two of Nigeria’s biggest music stars. “Vol. 1” suggests the possibility of future volumes, hinting at an ongoing collaborative series.

Complete Tracklist

Here is the full official tracklist for REAL, Vol. 1:

1. Turbulence

2. Jogodo

3. Iskolodo

4. Alaye

Track-by-Track Breakdown

1. Turbulence

“Turbulence” serves as one of the EP’s standout tracks, blending Wizkid’s smooth Afro-fusion style with Asake’s energetic street-pop delivery. Produced by Magicsticks and 4Tunes, the song explores themes of chaos, movement, and navigating through life’s challenges while maintaining success and composure.

• Producer: Magicsticks, 4Tunes

• Key themes: Challenges, movement, resilience, success

2. Jogodo

“Jogodo” was the lead single from the EP, released on January 16, 2026, one week before the full project. The track became an instant hit, accumulating over 70 million streams and dominating playlists across Africa and beyond. The song’s title is Nigerian Pidgin slang, and the track celebrates confidence, street credibility, and the joy of success.

• Producer: Magicsticks

• Key themes: Confidence, street pride, celebration, success

• Release Date: January 16, 2026 (lead single)

3. Iskolodo

“Iskolodo” continues the EP’s theme of authenticity and cultural pride. The track blends melodic Afrobeats with street-pop energy, showcasing the chemistry between Wizkid and Asake. The song’s title is derived from Nigerian slang, and the lyrics reflect themes of hustle, street life, and staying true to one’s roots.

• Producer: Magicsticks

• Key themes: Hustle, authenticity, street culture, roots

4. Alaye

“Alaye” closes the EP with a smooth, celebratory track that honors friendship, loyalty, and the bonds formed through success. The title “Alaye” is a Yoruba term often used to refer to a friend, companion, or someone you share a connection with. The song’s laid-back production and heartfelt lyrics make it a perfect ending to the project.

• Producer: Magicsticks

• Key themes: Friendship, loyalty, celebration, connection

Legacy and Impact

REAL, Vol. 1 was a massive commercial and critical success, quickly becoming one of the most-streamed Afrobeats projects of 2026. The EP debuted at the top of the Nigerian iTunes Albums chart and performed well internationally, including on global Spotify and Apple Music charts.

Key achievements and impacts:

• Commercial success: The EP dominated streaming platforms and radio across Africa, with “Jogodo” becoming one of the biggest Afrobeats hits of early 2026.

• Cultural significance: The project represented a historic collaboration between two generations of Afrobeats stars, symbolizing unity and the passing of the torch.

• Critical acclaim: The EP was praised for its concise, focused approach, delivering four high-quality tracks without unnecessary filler.

• Industry recognition: Both “Jogodo” and “MMS” (from Lungu Boy) received nominations at the 2026 Headies Awards, cementing the collaboration’s impact.

• Chart performance: REAL, Vol. 1 ranked among the top Afrobeats albums of 2026, with critics calling it a “cultural reset” for the genre.

Why This Collaboration Matters

The partnership between Wizkid and Asake is significant for several reasons:

1. Generational Bridge: Wizkid, a pioneer of global Afrobeats, joins forces with Asake, one of the genre’s biggest new stars, creating a symbolic connection between eras.

2. Proven Chemistry: Their previous collaboration on “MMS” from Lungu Boy (2024) showed strong vocal and stylistic compatibility.

3. Commercial Power: Both artists are among the most-streamed African musicians, making this EP a guaranteed commercial success.

4. Artistic Growth: The project allowed both artists to explore new sonic territories while staying true to their core identities.