Afropop sensation Mr Eazi has finally released his highly anticipated debut album, The Evil Genius, which is now available on his own emPawa Africa label. This incredible project was recorded in various locations across Africa and beyond, including Benin, Rwanda, Ghana, Nigeria, London, Los Angeles, and New York City.
The Evil Genius showcases Mr Eazi’s most personal and introspective work to date, delving deep into themes of love, betrayal, loneliness, and family. The album is divided into three distinct acts, each offering a unique perspective on these universal experiences.
One of the standout features of The Evil Genius is the impressive lineup of guest artists. Mr Eazi has collaborated with the legendary Angelique Kidjo from Benin, the talented Tekno from Nigeria, the soulful Efya from Ghana, the rising star Whoisakin from Nigeria, the sensational Joeboy from Nigeria, and the renowned Soweto Gospel Choir from South Africa, who have won three Grammy Awards. The album also boasts an impressive roster of producers, including Kel-P from Nigeria, Knucks from the UK, Michael Brun from Haiti, Andre Vibez from Nigeria, Yung Willis from Nigeria, Nonso Amadi from Nigeria/Canada, KillBeatz from Ghana, M.O.G Beatz from Ghana, E Kelly from Nigeria, Type A from Nigeria, Stikmatik from the UK, Phantom from Nigeria, Beat Butcha from the UK, Venna from the UK, KDream from Nigeria, and Mr Eazi himself.
In a groundbreaking move, Mr Eazi has combined African music and art in a way that has never been done before. He personally commissioned visual artists from across the continent to create unique art pieces that represent each of the album’s 16 tracks. As he traveled through Africa during the album’s recording process, Mr Eazi formed relationships with these talented artists, who he encountered along the way.
Recognizing the lack of collaboration between Africa’s booming pop music scene and its fine art creators, Mr Eazi handpicked 13 artists from eight African countries to showcase their work alongside his music. This adds yet another impressive title to Mr Eazi’s already extensive resume, as he becomes an art curator and patron. To celebrate the album’s release, Mr Eazi has been inviting the public to experience the music and art together at immersive exhibition listening experiences. The first two events took place in Accra, Ghana at Gallery 1957, and in London during the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair at Somerset House.
