Taves has entered a new phase of his musical journey with the release of Popstar SIDE A, an eight-track EP that reflects his growth as both a songwriter and storyteller after what has been a landmark year in his career.
The project arrives on the back of two well-received singles, Uche Jombo and Isn’t It Beautiful, both of which helped build anticipation for the new body of work. Uche Jombo, inspired by Wizkid’s classic Don’t Dull, became the singer’s biggest commercial success to date, earning widespread attention across streaming platforms and music publications. At the same time, Isn’t It Beautiful offered listeners a more reflective side of his artistry.
Since emerging in 2019, Taves has steadily carved out his own lane by blending Afrobeats, R&B, and alternative pop. His consistency has earned him recognition from major industry platforms, including Apple Music, Billboard, and The Headies, particularly following the release of his 2024 project, Are You Listening? Along the way, he has collaborated with established names such as Show Dem Camp, BNXN, LADIPOE, and L.A.X.
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On Popstar SIDE A, Taves continues that evolution with support from producers Arieenati, Spax, OG Sterling, and Samklef. At the same time, Wizkid receives an additional composer credit on one of the project’s standout records.
Across its eight songs, the EP explores the emotional highs and lows of a young man trying to find balance between love, ambition, faith, and personal growth while navigating life in Lagos.
The opening track, Chaos, sets the tone with a story of competing priorities, as Taves wrestles with the demands of a relationship while trying to stay focused on his career. Isn’t It Beautiful and Simone dive deeper into the complexities of romance, examining both the fragile moments that hold relationships together and the irresistible pull of a love that may not be good for him.
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Elsewhere, Deliver Me reflects vulnerability and hope, while Uche Jombo shifts the mood with a confident celebration of admiration and attraction. Preaching turns inward, capturing moments of financial struggle and quiet prayers for better days.
Space revisits the pain of losing someone through personal mistakes before Take Me Away closes the project with an honest confession that love still has the power to rewrite the story.
Rather than simply offering a collection of songs, Popstar SIDE A feels like a personal diary set to music. Through themes of love, heartbreak, desire, faith, and self-discovery, Taves presents the most complete picture of himself yet, inviting listeners to grow alongside him while embracing the relationships and experiences that shape who they become.
With this latest release, the fast-rising singer continues to establish himself as one of the most exciting voices among Nigeria’s new generation of Afropop artists.
Listen to “Popstar Side A” HERE