December 2021 was definitely one to remember. We got to witness the triumphant homecoming of some of Nigeria’s most successful exports in recent times e.g. Burna Boy and Wizkid. Some of the biggest acts out of the continent headlined mega holiday concerts and gave fans reasons to scream and rave. https://www.youtube.com/embed/BPlS6OkQrVE?feature=oembed
We also got to witness the explosion of two-hit songs from two unheralded musical acts: Portable and Goya Menor. Portable was responsible for the nationwide banger “Zazoo Zehh” which is still buzzing on the airwaves.
On the other hand, Goya Menor gave the world “Ameno Amapiano”. The latter generated more steam outside Nigeria and slowly became an internet sensation.
Recently, Goya revealed that the song, originally released in June 2021, did not start off all too well, but months later began to gather momentum, even beyond the shores of Nigeria.
“I went to the studio and made the production. I got less than a thousand streams in the first month. It was not until the beginning of December that it became a hit,” he started.
Speaking on how he felt being the star of the moment globally, Goya described it as every artiste’s dream.
“That is the dream of every artist. When you go to the studio to record, the aim and end point is to blow up and go international. That is what is happening now with my hit song. It’s something I was expecting and it has happened at the right time,” he stated.
But underneath the viral tune is a strong message.
According to the Nigerian singer, he recorded the track to educate the youth about the dangers of social vices, especially in school.
“The video on YouTube explains the song. ‘You want to bamba?’ is a question in our local language. The concept revolves around a father advising his son not to be involved with bad company in school, hence the next phrase, ‘You want to chill with the big boys?’” He explained.
“The song therefore is an inspiration that came to me to advice the new generation to stay away from bad behavior in school.” He added: “It’s something natural that happens.
I passed through the university system so I know of these happenings that lead others to even drop out of school.” The song has been holding the top spot of countdowns in various countries, opening doors to a worldwide tour for Goya.
“We have been travelling around explaining what the song means. As people dance to the vibe, they also need to know that it has a deeper meaning, from beginning to end,” he stated
Courtesy of African Music, https://africamusiconline.com/2022/01/21/who-is-goya-menor-the-bamba-man/