Asake’s Ololade Asake (2022 EP): The Breakout Project That Launched a Star

Ololade Asake is the debut EP by Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Asake, released on February 11, 2022, through YBNL Nation and EMPIRE. The five-track project served as Asake’s official introduction to the world and quickly established him as one of the most exciting new voices in African music. The EP’s raw energy, street-pop confidence, and Fuji-influenced vocals helped Asake gain massive attention, leading to his rapid rise and the release of his debut album Mr. Money With The Vibe later that same year.

Overview

• Title: Ololade Asake

• Artist: Asake

• Release Date: February 11, 2022

• Label: YBNL Nation, EMPIRE

• Genre: Afrobeats, Street-Pop, Fuji

• Length: Approximately 15 minutes

• Number of Tracks: 5

The EP’s title, Ololade Asake, is a play on Asake’s full name, Ahmed Ololade Asake. It reflects his personal identity and roots, grounding the project in authenticity and cultural pride.

Tracklist

Here is the complete tracklist for Ololade Asake:

1. Omo Ope (featuring Olamide)

2. Terminator

3. Omo Ope (Remix) (featuring Olamide)

4. Sungba

5. Trabaye

Track-by-Track Breakdown

1. Omo Ope (featuring Olamide)

“Omo Ope” is the opening track and one of the EP’s biggest hits. The song features Asake’s label head and mentor, Olamide, who delivers a confident verse that complements Asake’s melodic, chant-like delivery. The track is a celebration of success, street credibility, and ambition, with a catchy hook that became an instant anthem.

• Producer: Blaise Beatz

• Key themes: Success, hustle, street pride

2. Terminator

“Terminator” is a high-energy street anthem that showcases Asake’s aggressive, confident side. The song’s title is a metaphor for dominance and unstoppable momentum, with Asake positioning himself as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

• Producer: Blaise Beatz

• Key themes: Confidence, determination, resilience

3. Omo Ope (Remix) (featuring Olamide)

The remix version of “Omo Ope” adds additional layers to the original track, with extended verses and a slightly different production mix. It reinforces the song’s themes of success and street credibility while giving fans more of the chemistry between Asake and Olamide.

• Producer: Blaise Beatz

• Key themes: Success, collaboration, street culture

4. Sungba

“Sungba” became one of Asake’s breakout hits and remains one of his most iconic songs. The track’s fast-paced beat, repetitive hook, and danceable rhythm made it a viral sensation across Nigeria and beyond. It later received a remix featuring Burna Boy, which propelled it to international recognition.

• Producer: Blaise Beatz

• Key themes: Street energy, celebration, confidence

5. Trabaye

“Trabaye” closes the EP with a more melodic, reflective tone. The song blends Afrobeats with spiritual and cultural elements, showcasing Asake’s versatility as an artist. It hints at the deeper, more introspective side of his music that would be further explored in later projects.

• Producer: Blaise Beatz

• Key themes: Faith, culture, reflection

Legacy and Impact

Ololade Asake was a critical and commercial success, helping Asake gain a massive following in a short period. The EP’s raw energy, cultural authenticity, and street-centric sound resonated with fans and critics alike, establishing Asake as a major new force in Afrobeats.

Key achievements and impacts:

• Viral success: Tracks like “Sungba” and “Omo Ope” became viral hits on social media and streaming platforms.

• Cultural influence: The EP helped popularize the fusion of Afrobeats, street-pop, and Fuji music.

• Launchpad for stardom: Ololade Asake set the stage for Asake’s debut album Mr. Money With The Vibe, released later in 2022.

• Industry recognition: The project earned Asake nominations and awards, including recognition at The Headies and other major African music ceremonies.