Speaking of 2023 in Nigerian music, there is one artist whose name comes up like a motto repeatedly, and that is Seyi Vibez. Irrespective of whether you’re at the trenches or just chillin’ in Lekki, there’s a strong chance his voice has been playing in the background of your area in one way or another. From Danfo bus loudspeakers to ruling streaming charts, Seyi Vibez’s reign in 2023 was imminent.
Seyi, aka Balogun Afolabi Oluwaloseyi, not only showed up; he took over. With a minimum of four albums in eight months, a crazy mid-year Takeover of the TurnTable Charts, and a Headies recognition under his belt, this man redefined hustle. And he didn’t just put out music for the numbers; the depth, emotion, and Yoruba-dense lyricism of his songs set him apart as the real voice of the street.
Best of Seyi Vibez 2023
1. Karma
2. Hat-Trick
3. Cana
4. Different Pattern
5. Man of the Year
6. Today
7. Shazam
Best of Seyi Vibez 2023
From deep reflections to love ballads and party bangers, Seyi Vibez served every mood. Below, we’ve broken down the 7 biggest Seyi Vibez tracks of 2023; the ones that didn’t just trend but told stories, lifted spirits, and built his legend.
1. Karma
If you had to narrow down what Seyi Vibez is all about in one song, your go-to would be “Karma”. This song from his critically acclaimed album Thy Kingdom Come encapsulates his spiritual nature, street smarts, and inner thoughts. It is really deep, lyrical, and full of his signature Yoruba lines that still get the job done despite not being able to understand what he’s saying.
What is most powerful about ‘Karma’ is the message: be yourself, don’t pay attention to the drama, and believe in God’s timing. He spits bars about life being karmic, positive or negative, all coming full circle. All fully Yoruba laced and all, the intensity in his flow cuts across every linguistic barrier.
The beat? Top-notch. The intro? Chills. And if you’re listening with your headphones, don’t be surprised if you find yourself in your head in agreement. It’s no surprise that “Karma” quickly won over the hearts of its listeners. Seyi gave his all on this one, and the streets took notice.
2. Hat-Trick
“Hat-Trick” wasn’t merely a song; this one was a declaration. With this hit single, Seyi served notice that he wasn’t here for a momentary visit; he came to rule. It’s a mission statement, brimming with boastful lines, street-smart wordplay, and catchy Amapiano-laced beats that make your head bob from beginning to end.
He name-drops Tems and Ayra Starr, calls out conspicuously artistes with streaming farms, and yet still flexes his music muscle without features. The music video, directed by TG Omori, took the message even further with its electric and colorful graphics.
“Hat-Trick” came out, I’d say just in time for his headline show at London’s O2 Academy, and it was more like they timed it perfectly. The song isn’t only bold but also really replayable. It’s one of those songs that you find yourself stuck on repeat when you are getting ready to seize your day.
3. Cana
Talk about a vibe. “Cana” is basically one massive mood board of emotions: love, gratitude, spiritual strength, and a dash of highness (wink). Regardless of whether or not you interpret “Cana” as code for cannabis or just a mindset, Seyi’s intention was clear: celebrate love, be strong, and keep it real with your source.
This is a love song with a touch of introspection. He sings of marrying a man’s daughter one time and thanking God for passing through the bad times the next. And yes, he does so in beautiful, poetic Yoruba verses that border on prayers disguised as lyrics.
There is also an element of escape and bliss, something Seyi Vibez uses frequently in his songs. And while the topic appears grave, the production and melody make ‘Cana’ enjoyable to hear; a good grade for after-dark contemplation or cruising around town.
4. Different Pattern
Do you desire confidence? Trust me, my comrades, ‘Different Pattern’ is swimming in it. It is the EP’s title track; from the outset, you know the atmosphere has shifted. Point is, Seyi Vibez isn’t trying to impress you here, he’s reminding you that he’s around and what he’s achieved– respect.
He rhymes in the song about being tough, humble, and cut from another cloth. One moment he’s quoting blessings and the mercy of God, then he’s creasing his paper and reminding you that ‘we no dey class, but mo mọ eleyinju wa.’ It’s hard, religious, and trendy; all mixed into one.
The memorable hook and street metaphors in the song instantly turn the song into a street anthem– pure talent. The beat is tough, the bars tougher; if you needed any motivation to keep grinding, ‘Different Pattern’ is it. It’s the kind of song that compels you to stand up straight and say, ‘Yes, I dey different.’
5. Man of the Year
Here’s the thing: if you’ve experienced a year like Seyi Vibez experienced in 2023, you’re entitled to claim yourself “Man of the Year.” And that’s exactly what he did. This song is his triumph lap; a slap on the back for reaching the pinnacle, his wealth, and the fact that he can no longer be underrated.
Seyi uses “Man of the Year” to boast, yet to reflect. He talks about God’s hand on his journey, the way people doubted him, and the way money now surrounds him in and out. He adds a dash of romance, too, because what is success without someone to share it with?
The album isn’t a flex, it’s an affirmation. A reminder that success doesn’t hit in one night, and when it does, you bet you better take it for yourself. From the production to the delivery, “Man of the Year” is a well-deserved congratulatory banger.
6. Today
‘Today’ is sensual Seyi at his finest. This one is for the couples, the heart-eyed fans, and those who prefer a little vibe with the sex. With lyrics like “I wan touch your body too” and “sexy charisma,” it’s clear that he didn’t hold back on his feelings with this one.
But.. it’s not all fluff. He also discusses fame, relationships, decision-making, plus living in the now. He’s a popstar and a boss in this line, sure, but he’s also human; this masterpiece, ‘Today’, is the epitome of that duality.
There’s an air of freedom, of almost a YOLO vibe to the song. It gets you to go after what you desire, to be open, and to live in the present. At a party or a late-night relaxation session? ‘Today’ fits the bill.
Note: ‘YOLO’ stands for ‘You Only Live Once.’
7. Shazam
Last but certainly not least is “Shazam.” If there was one song that inspired Seyi Vibez’s 2023 material, it has to be ‘Shazam.’ It is all about understanding your time, listening for the noise, and lastly, trusting the process.
The words “Not by juju and not by jazz” are iconic. ‘I did this on the strength of grace and hustle, not dark powers.’ He is aware that the grind ain’t beautiful but will eventually pay off in the end. When it does, you party… real hard.
The song is uplifting, motivating, and rooted in reality. It tells you that while life tests you, your time of triumph is approaching. It’s a track that should be turned up when you are down or questioning your course.
Conclusion
Seyi Vibez’s 2023 was one for the ages. What do y’all think? Here’s why: from number one records, hit songs, to headlined performances, the artiste brought his A-game and brought it with finesse. These seven tracks: “Karma,” “Hat-Trick,” “Cana,” “Different Pattern,” “Man of the Year,” “Today,” and “Shazam”, are not tracks. They’re a movie of his grind, swagger, and street cred.
In an industry where sometimes trend trumps truth, Seyi Vibez remained steadfastly himself, respected (once more). It’s exactly why the streets adore him, and why he’s not just the man of 2023, but a name that will continue to be around for quite some time.
