Music
2x Grammy-nominated Afrobeats titan Asake released his highly anticipated fourth studio album M$NEY via GIRAN REPUBLIC and EMPIRE. The album artwork features a marble structure in Asake’s likeness by Iraqi-Dutch artist Arthar Jabar, capturing his physical form along with the weight of his cultural presence.
Grounded in Asake’s unique musical perspective and ever-evolving creative spirit, M$NEY reaffirms the Afrobeats powerhouse as a defining voice in music today. The 13-track album opens with a live choral performance, setting the tone for a spiritual, immersive soundscape that draws from a palette of global influences while staying rooted in African rhythms.
“M$NEY is a reflection of my spiritual and creative journey. Everything flows from a place of gratitude to God and every moment that’s shaped me,” states Asake. “The music explores different sonic elements, from orchestral sounds to dance beats. I stay true to myself but also weave in new creative expressions from my life experiences and personal evolution.”
Asake first began carving out the world of M$NEY with the release of WHY LOVE in February 2025, a hypnotic introduction steeped in romantic vulnerability and undeniable chemistry, backed by an irresistible, melodious groove. He deepened the narrative later that summer with BADMAN GANGSTA featuring Tiakola, a genre-defying track anchored by a reimagined sample of R&B artist Amerie’s iconic 1 Thing, delivering Asake’s smooth vocals over silky guitar riffs and smoky saxophone flourishes. With his third single, WORSHIP with renowned dance producer DJ Snake, Asake expanded his sonic palette even further, creating a powerful, cross-cultural anthem that fuses spiritual connection with energetic dance production.
On GRATITUDE, Asake leans into the weight of the human experience, acknowledging the quiet cost of visibility and the inevitability of public scrutiny. Floating over a hopeful, jazz-tinged string arrangement, his voice carries a gentle resolve, urging listeners to remain grounded, release the noise of criticism, and show gratitude in the face of it all. With FORGIVENESS, Asake turns inward, offering a prayer for grace over past missteps and moments of stubbornness. It’s a reflection steeped in humility and intention, as he traces the path from self-reckoning to relentless pursuit. By the end of the track, Asake arrives at a place of growth, clarity, and a hard-earned sense of peace.
Since his 2020 breakout, Asake has rapidly grown into a global powerhouse, captivating listeners across continents while advancing Afrobeats on the world stage. He currently holds the record for the most entries (62) on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart, and was recently revealed as the most-streamed artist on Spotify Nigeria. His release of M$NEY follows his 2025 record-breaking joint EP REAL, Vol. 1 alongside longtime collaborator and fellow Afrobeats giant Wizkid.
Listen to M$NEY here.