Nigerian afrobeat, folk singer, songwriter and performer, Edaoto and the Afrogenius band recently released a single ‘Run Run Come’ – RRC.
The video of ‘RRC’ with subtitled lyrics, is a call for people to fight against social injustice, corruption and all the vices that have plagued them, “It is a call to challenge the inappropriate handling of Nigerian and African resources” Edaoto said.
The combative music video shot and directed by Bọlaji Zealet Rasak and produced by Edaoto is set mostly in the suburb of Iwaya and other parts of Lagos. It shows everyday life and the glory of its people, working, playing and staying healthy. It seeks to reawaken the consciousness of the masses, to make them consistently ask questions about the future of the country and to take appropriate steps to right the wrong. ‘RRC’ emphasises the power of the people and the benefit of individual commitment to a better society.
Edaoto, meaning ‘unique being’ in Yoruba, revealed to eyesofalagosboy.com what inspires his new song, “I am inspired by my environment, there is too much poverty around, extreme starvation and hunger. Even if you assume to be a bit ahead of your neighbors (I better pass my neighbor) you will realize that you are living a glorified poverty ridden life. The system is so corrupt that it enables child abuse and child misuse.” Edaoto continues, “I wrote this song so our people can rise and understand that they are the power that drives the government that has impoverished them, so they will rise to be in charge of their lives.”
Edaoto is a common feature at concerts, festivals and shows in Nigeria and the continent. His style of music is influenced by music greats such as Fela Kuti, King Sunny Ade, Akeeb Kareem, Odolaye Aremu, Bob Marley, Marvin Gaye and many others.
Edaoto and the Afrogenius band have performed alongside stars that include Fatai Rolling Dollar, Dr Orlando Julius Ekemode, Femi Kuti, Brymo, Ade Bantu, Wura Samba and others. The band has toured, Ethiopia, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Belgium and the US. He also featured in CNN – Anthony Bourdain’s Paths Unknown documentary on Nigeria.
Edaoto’s last album Critically Speaking, a nine tracker was released in 2013.