Street-hop sensation and fusion-focused superstar, Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, better known by his stage name, Zlatan Ibile, has released his highly anticipated third studio album, Symbol of Hope.
Released on Friday, October 17, via his label Zanku Records, in partnership with ONErpm, the 18-track album, featuring Davido, Olamide, Shallipopi, and others, blends Afro pop, street-hop, and gospel sounds, exploring themes of resilience, gratitude, and self-growth.
The album is a memoir, which reflecs his journey from Ikorodu suburbs in Lagos to world stage. “I made it out of the hood, and that means anyone can make it out too,” Zlatan noted.
Symbol of Hope is an energy boost for everyone grinding their way to the top. The album kicks off with Payday, a victory-lap anthem, followed by Oyoyo, which flips rejection into triumph. Better Life sketches an aspirational blueprint valuing peace and purpose.
Zlatan tackles mental pressure and self-doubt in Demons with afropop princess Qing Madi, while Hip Hop Messiah features Davido in a bold statement anthem. Romance takes center stage on Diamond, while he pays tribute to Lagbaja in his 2005 classic Never Far Away.
Odeshi toasts to the soft life, invoking divine protection, while Till Thy Kingdom Come is a praise-filled anthem. Get Better and Happy Day showcase Zlatan’s emotional duality, as the album closes with Alpha & Omega, where he reflects on his journey from humble beginnings.
Zlatan’s journey to success wasn’t without challenges. Having built his career from scratch, he’s no stranger to struggle and success. Symbol of Hope is expected to be his most meaningful project yet, blending danceable rhythms with themes of hustle, resilience, and street wisdom.