Nigerian street-pop star Zinoleesky has finally unveiled his highly anticipated debut album, “Gen Z,” via Marlian Music. The 16-track project marks a significant milestone for the artist, who has made his presence felt in Nigeria’s music scene since his breakout in 2019 with singles like “Popo” and “Caro.”
A Highly Anticipated Release
The rollout for “Gen Z” began in January 2025, when Zinoleesky announced the project on Instagram, sparking excitement among fans. A cinematic trailer followed, teasing the album’s themes of personal growth and resilience. The lead single “Most Wanted,” released on April 4, 2025, set the tone with its bold fusion of Afrobeats, trap, and dancehall.
A Star-Studded Lineup
The official tracklist, shared on April 17, 2025, revealed a star-studded lineup of guest features, including Naira Marley, Toosii, Donae’O, Ms Banks, Young T & Bugsey, and Didi B. The international features broaden the album’s appeal, aligning with Zinoleesky’s goal to take street-pop global.
A Melting Pot of Sounds
“Gen Z” is a melting pot of sounds, blending Zinoleesky’s signature street-pop with elements of Afrobeats, R&B, and dancehall. Tracks like “Suit And Tie” featuring Toosii and “Abanikanda” with Naira Marley highlight his ability to merge gritty Nigerian narratives with international appeal.
Lyrical Themes
Lyrically, “Gen Z” delves into Zinoleesky’s experiences, from the hustle of Agege to the pressures of fame, love, and betrayal. His use of Yoruba and Pidgin English adds authenticity, making the album a cultural touchstone for Nigerian youth.
Conclusion
“Gen Z” cements Zinoleesky’s status as one of Nigeria’s most exciting talents, ready to carry the torch for the next generation of Afrobeats stars. With its eclectic mix and impressive streaming numbers, the album is poised to make waves in the music industry.
Impact on the Music Industry
The release of “Gen Z” is expected to have a significant impact on the music industry, particularly in the Afrobeats and street-pop genres. Zinoleesky’s debut album has garnered over 500,000 streams on Boomplay within its first 48 hours, and “Most Wanted” continues to dominate playlists.
What’s Next?
As Zinoleesky prepares for a potential album tour, including rumoured performances at The Headies 2025, where he’s nominated in multiple categories, fans can expect more exciting music and performances from the talented artist.
Fan Reaction
Fans have been eagerly awaiting Zinoleesky’s debut album, and the response to “Gen Z” has been overwhelmingly positive. The album’s eclectic mix and Zinoleesky’s signature street-pop sound have resonated with fans, and the international features have broadened the album’s appeal.
Critics’ Reviews
Some critics argue that while “Gen Z” is ambitious, it occasionally lacks the cohesive direction of his earlier EPs, with the diverse features sometimes overshadowing his voice. However, the album’s early streaming numbers and fan reaction suggest that it will be a significant success in the music industry.
Source: Africa Publicity