Ayo Maff and Zinoleesky have teamed up for “Malaria,” a fresh street-pop record that turns the familiar experience of falling in love into a playful comparison with an illness that is almost impossible to escape.
Released through Oceanstreet Creative and EMPIRE, the midtempo track finds both artists bringing different flavours to the same record. Ayo Maff takes charge with his deeper, weightier delivery, while Zinoleesky adds a more melodic touch, particularly on the chorus.
The collaboration feels like a natural meeting point for two artists who have been making waves in their respective corners of the Nigerian music scene.
Ayo Maff gained wider attention with his Fireboy DML-assisted hit Dealer before building on that momentum with his Maffian EP and establishing himself with his street-focused sound.
Zinoleesky, meanwhile, has become known for his smooth vocals and ability to bring memorable melodies to collaborations, making his pairing with Ayo Maff an interesting blend of contrasting styles.
Rather than overcrowding the record, Malaria keeps both artists firmly at the centre. Their different vocal approaches complement each other, while the song’s recurring love-and-infection concept gives it an easy-to-remember identity.
The release also continues a busy period for both acts, adding another street-pop collaboration to their growing catalogues while giving fans a record that could comfortably travel beyond the genre’s core audience.
Listen to “Malaria” HERE