Analyzing the discography of the late Nigerian artist Mohbad reveals a recurring theme of personal struggles, pain, and a yearning for freedom. Through his music, he often conveyed messages that, in hindsight, appear to reflect his inner turmoil and desire for liberation. Let’s explore some of his notable tracks that encapsulate these sentiments.

Tiff

In “Tiff,” Mohbad adopts a lively Afrobeat rhythm to express a sense of rebellion and the desire for freedom. The lyrics touch on themes of defiance, independence, and breaking free from constraints. At the time of its release, many interpreted lines like “Zz, ko ja, Black, ko bad, Dollar, mo rise, Why is Naira going down?” as direct references to his former label mates and his ex-boss, Naira Marley. These interpretations suggest that the song was a medium for Mohbad to voice his frustrations and assert his individuality.

Peace

“Peace” delves into Mohbad’s quest for tranquility amidst chaos. The song reflects his desire to distance himself from conflicts and find inner peace. The lyrics convey his struggles with external pressures and his yearning for a serene life, free from turmoil. This track offers listeners insight into his personal battles and his aspiration for a harmonious existence.

Feel Good

While “Feel Good” presents an upbeat tempo, it subtly hints at Mohbad’s attempt to mask his pain with a facade of enjoyment. The song’s lively rhythm contrasts with underlying messages of seeking relief from personal struggles. This juxtaposition suggests that, despite outward appearances, he was grappling with internal issues, using music as an outlet to express his desire for genuine happiness.

Am I A Yahoo Boy?

In this controversial track, Mohbad addresses societal judgments and the stereotyping of young Nigerians. The song reflects his frustration with being labeled and misunderstood, highlighting his struggle against societal pressures and the desire to assert his true identity. This track serves as a critique of societal norms and the challenges of navigating one’s path amidst widespread misconceptions.

Sorry

“Sorry” is a heartfelt apology that delves into Mohbad’s reflections on past mistakes and the pain they’ve caused. The song reveals his vulnerability and his desire for forgiveness, shedding light on his internal battles and the emotional weight he carried. Through this track, he expresses remorse and a longing for redemption, offering listeners a glimpse into his personal struggles and his journey towards self-forgiveness.

Ask About Me

In “Ask About Me,” Mohbad confronts rumors and the challenges of fame. The song reflects his frustration with false narratives and his desire to set the record straight. Through assertive lyrics, he addresses the pain of being misunderstood and the pressure to maintain his reputation, highlighting his struggle for authenticity in the public eye.

Pariwo

“Pariwo,” meaning “shout” in Yoruba, is a track where Mohbad vocalizes his frustrations and calls for attention to his struggles. The song serves as an outcry against the challenges he faced, reflecting his desire for acknowledgment and understanding. Through this track, he sheds light on his personal battles and the need for support, using his platform to voice his pain and seek solace.

Through these songs, Mohbad used his artistry to narrate his experiences, shedding light on his internal and external battles. His music serves as a testament to the power of artistic expression in conveying personal struggles and the universal quest for freedom and understanding.