UK-based afro-gospel artist Limoblaze retraces his steps from Lagos to London promoting purpose and free expression on his anticipated second album, Young & Chosen – out 23rd August.
- New project combines afrobeats, gospel and amapiano – listen here
- New music video for lead track, ‘No Greater Love’ – watch here
- Limoblaze to headline O2 Kentish Town Forum on 14 Sept – tickets here
Alongside the album, Limoblaze also unveils a new music video for its lead track, ‘No Greater Love’, which recruits the mellow Southern drawl of Kentucky singer-songwriter Joe L Barnes.
The album offers a soundtrack for new generations of faith-abiding young people living for a greater purpose, exploring a range of emotions and experiences, and providing an outlet to pursue their dreams within their own vision.
Opening with self-titled intro ‘Young and Chosen’, which pays homage to Limoblaze’s Nigerian roots, over traditional African rhythms, the ensuing tracklist assembles a dynamic collective of like-minded artists driving the gospel and afrobeat genres forward (full list and Limoblaze’s own descriptions here).
‘Happy’ is testament to Limoblaze’s positive outlook, with previous collaborator Sam Rivera bringing distinctive pop vocals to the song’s upbeat rhythm. ‘Blesser’ leans into more of a hybrid R&B/afrobeat sound to slow the pace and spotlight Limoblaze’s vocal range, whilst ‘Sorry’ brings pounding afrobeat percussion to add strength and depth to the album’s savanna-like landscape.
His collaboration with fellow Reach Records artist KB on ‘One Day’ incorporates mounting electronic crescendos which pack a punch. Spirited track, ‘Wait’ also features Reach Records’ Mexican-American WHATUPRG, who brings his signature flavour of Latin rhythms and Spanish lyricism.
‘Rest’ launches into high-energy amapiano beats to satisfy a certified club hit, whilst ‘Victory’ continues the South African vibrations as Limoblaze brings powerful vocal harmonies alongside Princeton South. ‘Transformation’ is a bittersweet reflection of Limoblaze’s own journey, where he contemplates the highs and lows through rallying cries of “we need transformation”.
Said Limoblaze:”My new album explores the intricate relationship between faith and youth, capturing the essence of every mood with a unique and sonically diverse sound. Each track is a reflection of personal experiences and lessons gathered along my journey.
“It takes you between my roots in Lagos, as well as my new London home, where I’ve furthered my faith and discovered who I truly want to be. Each track is a reflection of that growth, offering something for everyone – young and old, black, brown, and white. My hope is that as you listen, you’ll feel reassured that you are young, chosen, and uniquely valuable.”
Young & Chosen follows singles including July hit ‘Holy Father’, which was accompanied by a heartfelt music video (100K+ YouTube views) set in Limoblaze’s hometown of Lagos. Other tracks include viral sensation ‘Good God II’ (feat. Naomi Raine), as well as his collaboration with The Voice UK’s 2020 winner Annatoria on ‘Put It On God’.
Limoblaze has amassed a following of over 500,000 on social media, with previous singles collectively generating 600K+ uses on TikTok and propelling him into three Billboard charts, including the US Afrobeat Chart and others. He was also awarded ‘Best Gospel Act’ at the 2024 MOBO Awards.
Limoblaze releases Young & Chosen ahead of his headline show at London’s O2 Kentish Town Forum on 14th September.
Young & Chosen is being released by Atlanta-based record label Reach Records, which has been integral to Limoblaze’s rise to prominence since signing in 2021. Other Reach Records artists include GRAMMY-winning Lecrae, as well as chart-topping and RIAA certified platinum artists, Andy Mineo, Hulvey, Tedashii, Trip Lee, 1K Phew, Wande and WHATUPRG.
‘Young & Chosen’ to be released on 23rd August 2024
