The nightlife continues to blaze with hot Street-pop anthems and club bangers, and Sterry T’s “Journey” deserves to be in the conversation. The track’s title masks the finesse of its production and the brilliant composition in its lyrics. Yet the track is striking enough to keep your feet glued to the dancefloor, all while delivering an introspective message.

Ihejiawunze Chimezie Chris’ stellar reputation for helping compose some of Nigeria’s finest songs as a rising act in the industry is remarkable. Yet again, he delivers on Sterry T’s “Journey”, where the duo’s energy and chemistry are seamless across the party record. Although it is easy to miss out the layered message found in the track due to its groove-inflated production, the writer’s ability to contain that euphoria within the theme is one this track’s standout moments.

As the percussion and log drums hit, the track begins with an intro that sees the singer say his own side of the story. For him, it comes from a place of having bottled up (negative) remarks about him and naysayers who want to constrain his artistry. So he slowly uncovers in the intro, “If I start to say many things, I go turn to your enemy”. Letting you know that speaking his truth might turn things sour. But after that, he hints in Yoruba that he is not bothered, as he forges on the journey ahead with a bottle of Heineken for the road.

The track’s highlights arrive at the pre-chorus and chorus, where the singer plunges deep into street lingo and lamba. Here, the writer explores the stark reality of non-stop hustle, but with a strong assertion of who he is and where he is headed. This hits home for many youths who understand the reality of constant grinding. Yet, there’s an optimism and cruise that permeates the melody of the chorus; he sings “oh yeah, yeah.”

The second verse doubles down on perseverance and optimism. Here the writer allows the singer to make supplications over the efforts of him and his friends. It is a common and intentional prayer, especially among Yorubas: that everything leads to testimony at the end of all the hard work.

And for one who has struggled to make ends meet, there’s a strong desire for affluence, more out of life. From luxury lifestyle, watches, and information that provides more wealth. And even though he isn’t where he used to be, there’s a persistence to ask for more, while giving in to his hedonistic pleasures. Still, he doesn’t fail to drop some hard-hitting reflective lines: “If you no sabi person, sabi person, no con feel among.” One that could only be taught by the streets.

The verse returns to the catchy chorus where the singer hits a high-note melody. The euphoria strikes again, where it feels like the artist gives himself away to the celebration of the present moment and what’s to come. It offers the narrative that while one is still constantly hustling and hoping for better days, there’s also a need to be grateful for the moment.

The joint forces of Sterry T and Ihejiawunze Chimezie Chris’ writing on the Afrobeats track “Journey” is an exemplary performance between two acts. It’s a track where perseverance, personal growth, and gratitude can be recognised amidst the stark realities of hustling Nigerians.