Nigerian rap icon Illbliss, also known as Oga Boss, has recently blessed fans with his highly anticipated eighth studio album, titled ‘Sideh~Kai’. Released on February 24th, 2024. This album marks a significant milestone in the career of Tobechukwu Melvin-Ejiofor, a multifaceted artist celebrated for his contributions to Nigerian hip-hop.
A trailblazer in the Nigerian music scene, Illbliss has continuously pushed the boundaries of rap music, catalyzing its evolution and commercialization in the country. With a career spanning decades, his impact resonates deeply within the industry, solidifying his status as one of Nigeria’s hip-hop greats.
The journey to ‘Sideh~Kai’ was deeply personal for Illbliss, as he drew inspiration from his family, particularly his daughters. The album’s title is a fusion of his daughters’ names, Sochikaima and Kachimsideh, symbolizing a shift in focus from the artist himself to his role as a father. In his own words, Illbliss expressed, “It wasn’t just about me, it was about two incredibly beautiful, smart, intelligent children that my wife and I have been blessed with.”
‘Sideh~Kai’ Track list
1. NUMBER ONE EZIAGU STREET
2. RED CAPS (IGBO)
3. CHUKWU EBUKA Ft. UMUOBILIGBO
4. MASTERCLASS
5. FULL CHEST Ft. ODUMODU BLVCK
6. GOD IS GOD
7. SUCCESSFUL Ft. VECTOR & LADE
8. SOFT LIFE (PAMPER) Ft. ACETUNE
9. GEN Z Ft. YUKEL & MICHICKOSLEFTCOOCHIELIP
10. PEACE OF MIND Ft. FAVE
11. OH MY GOD Ft. TENI
12. DAUGHTERS
13. MAALE Ft. COBHAMS ASUQUO
14. SPIRIT Ft. MADE KUTI & COBHAMS ASUQUO
15. REMEMBER Ft. DEBORAH PREST
16. NYE CHUKWU THE GLORY
Comprising 16 tracks, ‘Sideh~Kai’ is a testament to Illbliss’s versatility and artistic prowess. The lead single, “Chukwu Ebuka,” featuring Umu Obiligbo, served as a tantalizing preview of the album’s sonic landscape, enticing fans with its infectious rhythms and compelling lyricism.
True to his roots, Illbliss continues to champion Igbo rap, infusing the album with tracks such as “Red Caps” and “Number One Eziagu Street,” paying homage to his cultural heritage. Collaborations with industry heavyweights like Vector and rising talents like Acetune and Odumodu Blvck further enrich the album, showcasing Illbliss’s ability to bridge the gap between generations and styles.
Listen to the album here:
Beyond his role as an artist, Illbliss has also left an indelible mark as a label boss, co-founding the Capital Hill imprint alongside acclaimed cinematographer Clarence Peters. Together, they have nurtured and propelled a new wave of talent, shaping the trajectory of Afrobeats and elevating its global appeal.
‘Sideh~Kai’ stands as a testament to Illbliss’s enduring legacy and artistic vision. With tracks like “Successful” and “Soft Life” resonating with listeners, the album is poised to captivate audiences far and wide, cementing Illbliss’s rightful place in the pantheon of Nigerian music.
From its heartfelt origins to its infectious beats, ‘SidehKai’ is more than just an album; it’s a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite listeners in celebration of life, love, and legacy. As Illbliss continues to leave an indelible mark on the music landscape, ‘SidehKai’ stands as a testament to his unwavering passion and dedication to his craft.
