In 2019, Nigerian artist Zlatan released his debut EP Zanku (an acronym for “Zlatan Abeg No Kill Us”), solidifying his place as a pioneer in the Afrobeat and street music scene. Known for his electrifying energy, catchy beats, and street-conscious lyrics, Zlatan has become a dominant figure in the Nigerian music industry, and the Zanku EP was a major milestone in his career.
Zlatan: The Artist Behind Zanku
Zlatan Ibile, popularly known as Zlatan, hails from Lagos, Nigeria, and rose to fame with his 2018 hit single Zanku (Legwork), which introduced a new dance craze to the world. He quickly became the face of “street hop” music, a sub-genre of Afrobeat known for its catchy rhythms and relatable lyrics reflecting the life of the Nigerian youth. Zlatan’s unique style blends elements of dancehall, hip hop, and traditional African sounds, earning him a massive following and industry recognition.
The Zanku EP: Tracklist and Sound
Released in 2019, Zanku (EP) was Zlatan’s first body of work, and it did not disappoint. The EP featured a combination of upbeat dance tracks, street anthems, and collaborations with prominent artists. It helped cement Zlatan’s status as a force to be reckoned with in the Nigerian music scene.
Here are some of the key tracks from the Zanku EP:
- Zanku (Legwork):
The title track was an instant hit and served as a follow-up to Zlatan’s viral success. It introduced the Zanku dance, a street dance characterized by energetic leg movements, and the song became a global sensation. - Osanle (ft. Davido):
A collaboration with Davido, Osanle blended Afrobeat rhythms with street-style music, making it an anthem for parties and street events. The track enjoyed massive airplay and further boosted Zlatan’s popularity. - This Year:
A motivational anthem, This Year was Zlatan’s declaration of success and growth. The track resonated with fans as it captured the struggles and ambitions of Nigerian youth. - Poverty Die:
A hard-hitting track that emphasizes the desire for success and the rejection of poverty, Poverty Die became an anthem for anyone fighting to overcome hardship. - Gbeku:
Another danceable hit, Gbeku was another signature track from the EP, with infectious beats and Zlatan’s recognizable flow. It quickly became a crowd favorite.
Reception and Impact
The Zanku EP received both commercial success and critical acclaim. It was widely praised for its infectious beats, catchy hooks, and Zlatan’s authentic representation of the Nigerian street culture. Within weeks of its release, the EP became one of the most streamed albums on Nigerian music platforms. The title track, Zanku (Legwork), was particularly notable for popularizing the “Zanku” dance, which took over social media, sparking viral dance challenges across the globe.
Zlatan’s ability to blend Afrobeat with street vibes made the EP stand out, attracting a diverse audience. The album’s success also helped establish the Zanku sound as a sub-genre of Afrobeat, influencing the direction of contemporary Nigerian music.
Legacy of the Zanku EP
The release of Zanku marked the beginning of Zlatan’s rise to superstardom. He continued to enjoy success with subsequent singles and collaborations, but it was this EP that laid the foundation for his future in the music industry. Zlatan has since become known for his energetic performances, and his influence on both Nigerian and international music continues to grow.
The success of Zanku also highlighted the power of street music in Africa, with more artists following in Zlatan’s footsteps and incorporating elements of the genre into their music.
Our Take
The Zanku EP was a turning point for Zlatan, showcasing his musical versatility and solidifying his place as one of Nigeria’s leading musicians. With its infectious rhythms, catchy hooks, and relatable lyrics, the EP resonated with fans worldwide and earned Zlatan a spot in the global spotlight. The impact of Zanku extends beyond the music itself, as it inspired a cultural movement through the Zanku dance and helped shape the future of Afrobeat and street-hop music.
