On the back of his acclaimed 2023 album, The More The Better, award-winning Nigerian musician and producer, Tekno, has kicked off a new musical era with his latest song, dubbed, Wayo. This new single is the first offering of his new partnership with Mr Eazi’s emPawa Africa, which will see Tekno becoming an investor and partner in the label.
Driven by infectious percussions, hypnotic synths, and lush guitar arrangements, and held together by Tekno’s enchanting vocal performance and captivating storytelling, Wayo – which means to ‘scam’ or deceive someone in Nigerian slang – sees Tekno reassuring his lover of his pure intentions and undying devotion to her, making sure to let her know, “I no come do wayo”. The glorious new offering also comes with a cinematic music video set against the vibrant city of Lagos, and starring Tekno and Nollywood sensation Uzoamaka Aniunoh as a couple navigating the highs and lows of their relationship.
Tekno and Mr Eazi’s joint venture will see Tekno’s Cartel Music imprint releasing some exciting new music via emPawa Africa, with Tekno also set to become a partner and invest in emPawa Africa in its next capital call round. With emPawa Africa revered as a trailblazer in discovering and nurturing talent across the continent, Tekno’s ability to foster budding talent perfectly aligns with the company’s ethos. This strategic partnership promises an infusion of fresh perspectives, and unparalleled value, in sync with both parties’ mission to empower African creatives.
Speaking on the deal, Tekno tells Weekend Beats, “this strategic alliance with Empawa promises to be a gamechanger for the African music industry and a beacon of opportunity for artists. We look forward to seeing how this partnership will catalyse the growth of emPawa Africa, its artists, and the broader African music ecosystem.”
Mr Eazi, however, added, “with this deal with Tekno and Cartel Music, we are ushering in a new phase of emPawa. This phase will see us partnering with African artists at different stages of their career who want to maintain financial and creative freedom, yet move from talent for hire to equity participation. It’s a first-of-its-kind deal for afrobeats.
