“This project is a self introduction. It’s a declaration of my confidence in myself. Especially when you come from a place where your grind isn’t very much respected. Eminel has come out and risen above the snakes regardless”.– Eminel
Over the past three years, Eminel has been busy releasing a string of singles showcasing his exceptional artistic talents. With a sound that leans towards Afrobeats while infusing elements of drill, hip-hop, and afro-swing, his debut project Risen above Snakes is a testament to his versatility and skill. Eminel sings with the aim of standing out among his peers. The Lagos-born artist, Eminel chiefly describes his sound as phenomenal, acting as a voice to represent his artistic talents and his hood.
“9 AM”
Eminel’s 5-track debut project opens with the bop “9 AM,” originally released in 2020. On this track, Eminel shares his struggles and determination to succeed despite his roots in the hood. He dedicates his hard work to his mother and expresses his desire to live a stress-free life. Delivered over bouncy Afrobeats instrumentals, he confidently declares, “It’s 9 am and I’m up in the zanga. Stepping on the mic, I’m ’bout to shoot another banger,” as he sets the tone for a project that is sure to impress.
“Jordan”
Eminel makes a further display of his dominance and confidence in his craft on “Jordan”. The track is certainly driven by drill instrumentals, and Eminel drops bar after bar, asserting his expertise with the Michael Jordan reference that inspired the song’s name. With lines like “I know my flows so sick, the way I jump on the beat slam dunk it just like Jordan,” Eminel leaves no doubt about his skill and ability to dominate the rap game and make waves. This track is a braggadocious expression of his crafty excellence.
“Ogiren (Babylon)”
In this track titled “Ogiren,” Eminel fiercely refutes the claims of his enemies, who seek to lay claim to his success. He proclaims his protection from God and asserts that the forces of Babylon have nothing over him. The title itself, “Ogiren,” means enemies in his dialect (Ijaw). Eminel uses the song to explain how he is covered by the blood of Jesus and is the chosen one. Furthermore, this track is a powerful declaration of faith and a testament to Eminel’s unwavering confidence in himself and his creator.
“Look Lit”
This a standout track on Eminel’s project, showcasing his versatility and ability to blend different genres. The song has a bouncy and infectious beat that draws the listener in, with Eminel’s confident flow and catchy lyrics. “Look Lit” is a collaboration between Eminel and Chris Jay. The latter contributes a powerful and emotional storyline about his desire to escape the hardships of life in the trenches. The track seamlessly blends elements of Afrobeats, drill, and trap music.
“Acting Bad”
The closing track of Eminel’s EP delivers a mid-tempo vibe as he reflects on his journey from the trenches to success. He recounts his difficult experiences from birth and evading authorities on tough days. Despite the obstacles, he celebrates his achievement of earning a diploma and his hunger for even more success. The song captures both the struggles and triumphs of Eminel’s journey, making for a fitting conclusion to his debut project.
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