By Segun Adekunle
In the constantly evolving landscape of Nigerian music, where creativity meets innovation, one name is steadily rising and commanding attention: Bodun-Kareem Tobiloba Emmanuel, professionally known as Unleash. A multi talented creative whose artistry spans music production, songwriting, cinematography, and storytelling, Unleash is carving out a distinct lane in the global Afro fusion movement. With his single “Number 1”, he takes a bold step forward, proving that he is not just a skilled producer behind the scenes but a recording artist with a unique voice and vision.
Unleash’s journey into music is as compelling as his sound. Born in Ogun State in 1994, his passion began at the age of six when his mother gifted him a simple piano. That thoughtful gesture sparked a lifelong dedication to music. Teaching himself to play through his local church, he discovered early that music was not just a pastime but a calling that demanded his heart and commitment.
By 2016, his pursuit of excellence took a professional turn when he apprenticed under the renowned Nigerian producer Indomix. For five years, he immersed himself in the rigours of sound engineering and production, honing his craft and sharpening his ability to create immersive, emotionally charged soundscapes. The experience paid off. Unleash soon found himself working with some of Nigeria’s most celebrated acts, including Jaywon, Sound Sultan, Minjin, Korede Bello, Pepenazi, W4, Soft, and Jiron. Behind the scenes, his fingerprints were on songs that defined moments in Nigerian pop culture, quietly earning him a reputation as one of the industry’s trusted creative architects.
But Unleash always wanted more than shaping other people’s stories. In 2020, he stepped into the spotlight as a recording artist, choosing to channel his creativity into Afro fusion, a dynamic blend of African rhythms with global influences. For him, Afro fusion is more than a genre; it is a language, one that bridges cultures while staying rooted in African identity.
His breakout single “Number 1” exemplifies this philosophy beautifully. From the very first beat, the song hooks the listener with its infectious, danceable groove built on vibrant Afrobeat percussion layered with subtle highlife inspired guitar riffs. The production is crisp and deliberate, a reflection of his years behind the console, allowing every element of the track to breathe. The result is a polished soundscape that perfectly frames his vocals.
Lyrically, “Number 1” explores themes of love and devotion, as Unleash sings about prioritising his lover above all else. While the subject matter treads familiar Afrobeat territory, it is his delivery that sets the song apart. He approaches the narrative with warmth and sincerity, avoiding unnecessary excess while crafting a chorus so catchy that it lingers after just one listen. The track captures a duality of mood; it has the high energy required for a dance floor anthem, yet retains an intimacy that resonates in more personal listening spaces. This delicate balance of rhythm and emotion is what gives Afro fusion its global appeal, and Unleash taps into it effortlessly.
Beyond “Number 1”, Unleash’s growing discography showcases his versatility. His follow up single “Feelings” earned significant airplay, reinforcing his ability to create music that connects deeply with listeners. Looking ahead, his forthcoming extended play “Love or Lust” promises an even more introspective journey. The project explores heartbreak, obsession, addiction, and the fragile hope of finding love again, themes drawn from personal experience. For Unleash, authenticity is not negotiable. His art is an extension of his lived reality, and this emotional transparency is fast becoming his signature.
What makes Unleash stand out in a crowded industry is not just his sound but his vision. He treats creativity as a holistic experience. Beyond music, he has ventured into cinematography, directing and producing music videos as well as comedic short films. To him, visuals and sound are interwoven, different expressions of the same artistic drive. Though he admits balancing multiple passions is demanding, he insists true creativity allows no rest until every idea is brought to life.
Rooted deeply in his Nigerian identity, Unleash draws profound inspiration from Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti while also embracing diverse global influences. He believes Afro fusion will be instrumental in pushing African music to even greater heights, making it a universal language that transcends geography.
Unleash is more than just a stage name. It is a manifesto, a declaration of intent, and a reminder that creativity thrives when given room to breathe. His story, from a young boy in Ogun State discovering a passion for music on a simple piano, to a trusted producer shaping hits, to an independent artist forging his own path, is one of resilience, clarity of purpose, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
With “Number 1”, Unleash has struck gold. It is a soulful, radio ready anthem that embodies the evolution of Afro fusion and reflects the influence of Nigerian artists in shaping the global soundscape. If given the right platform, the track has the potential to resonate far beyond Africa, connecting with audiences across Europe and beyond.
In an industry overflowing with voices chasing trends, Unleash stands out by staying true to himself. His music is personal, his artistry expansive, and his purpose clear. For him, music is not just entertainment. It is destiny written in melody, and his journey has only just begun.
