BNXN and Sarz release collaborative EP The Game Needs Us

The five-track project marks a renewed collaboration between the pair, following previous releases including ‘Gwagwalada’ and ‘Pidgin & English’. The EP was produced entirely by Sarz and combines Afrofusion, Afrobeats and contemporary pop influences.

According to the artists, the project was designed to reflect the evolving direction of African music while maintaining a balance between melodic songwriting and experimental production.

Lead single ‘Back Outside’ debuted at number one on Apple Music Nigeria following its release. The song reportedly accumulated more than 22 million streams and two million video views within its first weeks of release.

Other tracks on the EP include ‘Rum & Soda’, ‘Emotional High’ and ‘Frank Sinatra’, which explores themes of relationships and emotional distance.

“The Game Needs Us, just as the name implies,” BNXN said. “This project brings together two of Nigeria's greatest forces to deliver a refreshing yet reflective experience. To show the dynamics in the African sound and to give a feel of where the future of the sound is headed.”

Sarz said the collaboration allowed him to experiment with different musical influences.

“After ‘Gwagwalada’ and ‘Pidgin & English,’ it's only right we continue that chemistry. Working on this record with him helped me explore some African and South American sonic themes,” he said.

The EP is BNXN’s first major release in nearly 10 months following his album CAPTAIN. It also marks Sarz’s first project since his debut album Protect Sarz At All Costs.

Both artists have played prominent roles in the growth of Afrobeats internationally, with BNXN recognised for his vocal style and songwriting, while Sarz has established himself as one of the genre’s leading producers.

Contributors: Mandla Mhlongwa, Mndeni Mahlangu and Lerato Ramogase