When it comes to lyricism in Afrobeats circles, bohemian lyricism is as important to the creator as the rhythm. This is why whenever one comes across songs like ‘Knackupenda’ by fast-rising singer Ncha, one has to appreciate the free-spirited penmanship that brings out the cremè in such records.

After proving his mettle on “Loader (with Fxrtune and Azanti)”, off the Ejoya Class of 21’s, Nigerian songwriter Daniel Oluwagbemiro Owolabi rehashes his skilled writing techniques on this culturally-charged, elevating “Knackupenda” as one of this writer’s most intriguing discoveries in recent times.

“Steady up and down like see saw/ Cut red wire for my head like a c4/ Ikebe Boomeranging omo issa big butt,” Knackupenda’s smooth sing-rapping spins off the record, before switching to a highlife-toned breezy pop-flow, “But but werin I go do with feeling for body/ Wey make me feel like/ I shark odeku with pami/ I don jonse,” showcasing Owolabi’s stellar meld of melodic rap and Nigerian pop. The song’s catchy and playful hedonist imagery evokes a vibrant feel-good groove that increases its recall value.

On “Knackupenda,” Owolabi’s writing is rife with code-switching that transforms the softened drum kicks and subtle chords into a cathartic listen, bursting with spicy cultural flavour. “Mami wota Pour me wota/ Ice and Juicy Dodo rima/ Asa m bada Asa m poto/ Soft and tender Looku looku,” the song’s opening lines set the tone with strong Southern Nigerian pidgin. Herein, Owolabi compares the song’s hypothetical muse with a popular Nigerian river goddess, Mami Wota, who’s been frequently used in Afrobeats’ lyricism as a symbol of exquisite beauty. He also explores the use of Igbo language, serenading the said muse with similar adulations with the lines, “Asa m bada/ Asa m poto.”

The cultural undercurrents within the song also point towards Owolabi’s knack for clever experimentation. The song’s title itself is the first hint: “Knackupenda,” a tongue-in-cheek twist on “Nakupenda,” which means “I love you” in Swahili. However, the insertion of “Knack,” a loaded Nigerian slang term, adds a layer of suggestiveness that gives the song its cheeky edge. It’s a clever duality, bearing edges of romance and flirtatiousness all at once, as well as fusing popular Nigerian slang with Kenyan poetry.

Again, just like he did on “Loader”, he crafts lyrics in “Knackupenda” that are deeply affectionate, despite having a humorous mien. That duality shows up all through the song. Owolabi’s lyrical choices are packed with innuendo, but they’re lighthearted enough to keep the energy fun and without much pressure. In the chorus, lines like “Knack me tender” offer a sly wink without risking ultimate crassness. There’s measured humour and room for improvisation during performance, thanks to the song’s arrangement that understands the importance of pacing. On the song, Owolabi showcases a good command of tone, tempo, and pace in his writing.

Ncha’s delivery is a perfect complement to Daniel’s writing. His voice has a polished ease to it, smooth enough to make the cheeky lines sound charming instead of forced. It’s the kind of performance that makes you feel involved in the moment, as it feels so relatable. This synergy between artist and writer is what elevates the catharsis in “Knackupenda”, expanding its replay value, by extension.

Overall, “Knackupenda” shines as more than just a catchy record; it’s a lesson in how good lyricism can stretch the creative boundaries of a genre and still retain soul and depth.

On a final note, Owolabi has an innate ability to adapt across sounds and moods, whether it’s gritty rap bars or cheeky Afrobeats musical flirtation, shows a songwriter who knows how to shift gears. On “Knackupenda,” his identity is playful, cultural, and refreshing. The creativity behind coined terms, the blend of Swahili and street slang, and the ability to walk the line between romance and banter; these elements together in a way that feels effortless, ranking this as one of the most riveting Afrobeats drops from a newcomer in recent times.