…While the Hit Single Pays Homage to African Classics, Some Question Its Lyrical Depth
Lagos–Davido’s latest album continues to dominate charts, but one line from his Omah Lay-assisted single “With You” has fans and critics talking. The track’s opening verse—”Sweet Fanta Dialo, I no fit forget you oh, Ebezina Ebezina nzobu nzobu oh…”—pays tribute to Ivorian legend Alpha Blondy’s 1980s classic “Sweet Fanta Dialo.” Yet, the cryptic follow-up phrases (“Ebezina” and “Nzobu”) have left listeners dissecting their meaning NEGROIDHAVEN can say.
Social media erupted with mixed reactions. Simon Utsu, a self-proclaimed Afrobeats enthusiast, acknowledged the genre’s global dominance but urged Davido to refine his lyrics: “Afrobeats is Nigeria’s biggest export now. Our artists are global ambassadors—lyrics matter more than ever.”
Others, like Kenneth Ikonne, SAN, defended the track’s nostalgic charm, comparing its rhythm to Felix Lebarty’s 1980s hit “Ifeoma” and praising Davido’s playful line: “Baby lay down; finish work for me.” “It’s relatable and infectious,” Ikonne quipped.
Continuing, Utsu shared an anecdote about a Euro-Asian supermarket clerk in the West who exclusively played Nigerian hits, highlighting the genre’s universal appeal. “When fans abroad know our artists better than we do, it’s a call to elevate every aspect of the craft,” Utsu added.
