2024 MOBO Winner Limoblaze Releases Young & Chosen Album Ahead of Headline London Show
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.
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
Get tickets for Limoblaze’s headline show at 02 Kentish Town Forum on Saturday 14th September here.
Tracklist
Young and Chosen
Holy Father
Sorry
No Greater Love (feat. Joe L Barnes)
Blesser
Happy (feat. Sam Rivera)
My Time
Wait (feat. WHATUPRG)
One Day (feat. KB)
Rest
Victory (feat. Princeton South)
Transformation
Put It On God (feat. Annatoria)
Good God II (feat. Naomi Raine)
About Limoblaze
Singer, songwriter and leading pioneer in the emerging genre of afrobeat music, Limoblaze, AKA Samuel Onwubiko is an award winning musician born in Makurdi, Nigeria, currently residing in London, UK.
He has been successfully building an international fanbase through his uncanny ability to marry afrobeat music with hypnotising melodies, all while unashamedly promoting his passion for God and active life in ministry. Having garnered international acclaim as a rapper, singer, and songwriter, he has captivated audiences with his unique blend of afrobeat-infused rhythms and gospel messages.
Making noise across the nations in recent years with hits like ‘Jireh (My Provider)’, Limoblaze's artistic vision extends beyond music as he envisions using his platform to empower young Christians to share their faith and pursue their dreams. This commitment to his faith is reflected in his passionate performances and heartfelt lyrics.
Throughout his illustrious career, Limoblaze has collaborated with stars such as GRAMMY award-winning rapper Lecrae, GRAMMY nominee and Billboard award winner Travis Greene, GRAMMY award-winning rapper Da’ T.R.U.T.H, Portland-hailing Sam Rivera, singer/songwriter Madison Ryann Ward, Dena Mwana, Ada Ehi, Johnny Drille, and many others.
Since transitioning to the afrobeat sound, Limoblaze has enjoyed widespread acclaim, earning recognition as one of Tidal's ‘Rising Artists to Watch’ and a 2024 MOBO Award. Despite his achievements, Limoblaze continues to be driven by a hunger for excellence and a desire to make a lasting impact.