In a resounding celebration of African culture and music, globally acclaimed artiste Matt B has unveiled the exhilarating music video for his latest track, “SHAYO,” off his new Afrobeats album, ALKEBULAN.
According to a statement by WMA.Agency, the video, which radiates with the exuberance of the common Nigerian and West African term “SHAYO,” denoting happiness, features the remarkable Ugandan dance ensemble Fire K Stars, epitomising the infectious joyousness of the song.
Upon its release, ALKEBULAN skyrocketed onto six prestigious Billboard charts, securing positions such as #27 on Top New Artiste Albums, #33 on Top Albums, #82 on Top Current Album Sales, and #120 on Digital Albums. This monumental album, nurtured over the course of three years, pays homage to Matt’s African heritage, recounting his personal odyssey to reconnect with his roots while gracefully managing the complexities of family dynamics. ALKEBULAN stands as an eloquent testament to his homecoming and an immersive exploration of the Afrobeats soundscape that he has masterfully embraced since his earlier releases. Notably, the majority of the album’s visuals, including “SHAYO,” as well as the previous chart-topping singles “GUNJALE” and “FREEDOM,” were meticulously filmed in Africa under the visionary direction of Matt’s multi-talented spouse, Angela Benson.
Furthermore, ALKEBULAN showcases a reimagined rendition of Matt’s Grammy-nominated hit, “GIMME LOVE,” featuring the charismatic Ugandan superstar Eddy Kenzo. This track made its mark by debuting in the Top 50 on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs Charts.
Matt B’s music journey has been nothing short of remarkable. ALKEBULAN follows his 2021 album, EDEN, which catapulted into the Top 40 across multiple Billboard charts, including R&B Albums, Digital Albums, Heatseekers, and R&B/Hip-Hop Albums. Renowned for his emotive and soul-stirring R&B compositions, Matt B has established himself as an undeniable talent, amassing a dedicated global fanbase with his string of chart-topping releases.
Earlier this year, Matt and his wife, Angela Benson, who serves as his manager and producer, graced the GRAMMYs red carpet in regal custom attire inspired by their African royal heritage, a nod to the kings and queens of Africa who once reigned supreme. Their captivating presence and ancestral homage garnered praise from illustrious publications such as Vogue, The Washington Post, Entertainment Tonight, iHeartRadio, and more.
As ALKEBULAN continues to make waves, Matt B invites the world to join him on this extraordinary musical voyage, an exploration of heritage, love, and the vibrant rhythms of Afrobeats.
Watch “SHAYO” here
Stream ALKEBULAN here
