Global music star D’Banj announces the release of ‘Worthy,’ a song and visual collaboration with icon and Grammy Award winner Youssou N’Dour and NBC’s The Voice first runner-up Chechi Sarai. The new track, which uses romantic love as a powerful metaphor for the artists’ love for Africa, is scheduled for release on streaming platforms and broadcast stations on Friday, July 19, 2024.
The video of ‘Worthy’ is a cross-cultural showcase of music, culture, and place. Shot across scenic Dakar, Senegal, and at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in Lagos, Nigeria, it features an exciting cameo by football legend El Hadji Diouf. ‘Worthy’ is the fourth single off D’Banj’s anticipated fifth studio album, ‘Entertainer—The Sequel,’ which is available for pre-save from July 23 and will be released officially on August 9, 2024, by DB Records. The song was co-written by legendary rapper, Olamide and produced by Eskeez, while the visuals shot by award-winning video director, Clarence Peters.
Creating and releasing ‘Worthy’ is another milestone as D’Banj celebrates his 20th anniversary on stage with a series of activities that will culminate in a global tour. Youssou N’Dour, whom D’Banj describes as a legend and mentor, is also celebrating his 40th anniversary, making their collaboration a symbolic ode to Africa and its rich music landscape.
‘Worthy’ is a message of hope and unity to all Africans at home and abroad. Speaking about the song, D’Banj said, “When we come together as one, we not only honour our heritage but also unlock our borderless potential to lead the world. The future belongs to a united Africa, worthy of her dreams and aspiration.”
Youssou N’Dour said, “Africa, our home, is filled with beauty and worthiness. I feel a special connection to our land and people and will always celebrate that connection.”
With his infectious sound and electrifying stage performances, D’Banj earned the moniker ‘The Entertainer’ early in his career. He was one of the pioneers who laid the building blocks of Afrobeats’ global footprint, with achievements including a 2010 international collaboration with American rap legend Snoop Dogg, on Mr Endowed (Remix) and a 2011 global deal with Kanye West and his GOOD Music.
D’Banj became the first Nigerian musician to chart on the number nine spot on the UK Singles Chart with his monster hit, ‘Oliver Twist.’ His extensive global collaborations include working with stars such as Bono, Big Sean, Idris Elba and Fally Ipupa. His music has attracted major awards and recognitions from BET, MTV Africa Music Awards, MTV Europe Music Awards, Soundcity Music Awards, Channel O Music Video Awards, The Headies and Nigeria Entertainment Awards.