Nigerian singer Asake has released his first single, ‘Why Love’, under his newly established record label, Giran Republic. The song, which dropped on Wednesday, marks a fresh start for the Afrobeats star after parting ways with YBNL Nation, the label owned by Olamide.
Produced by Magicsticks, ‘Why Love’ blends amapiano-inspired beats with Asake’s signature laid-back delivery and romantic lyrics. The release comes shortly after his surprise track ‘Military’, in which he hinted at a new chapter in his career.
The move to Giran Republic follows noticeable changes in Asake’s branding. In December 2023, the Grammy-nominated artiste updated his Instagram profile, removing YBNL from his bio and adding the title “creative director.” He also unfollowed everyone on the platform, sparking rumors about his split from Olamide and the label.
Earlier this year, Asake also debuted a new look, changing his hairstyle and adding fresh tattoos, signaling a transformation in his artistic direction.
Born Ahmed Ololade, Asake gained prominence in 2020 with his breakout hit ‘Lady’. He later joined YBNL Nation in February 2022, a partnership that played a crucial role in shaping his career. Under the label, he rose to stardom with hit songs like ‘Sungba,’ ‘Organize,’ and ‘Lonely at the Top.’
At the 2024 Grammy Awards, Asake was nominated in the Best African Music Performance category but lost to fellow Nigerian singer Tems. Despite the change in labels, he recently acknowledged Olamide’s support in his song ‘Military’, expressing gratitude for the rapper’s role in his success. With ‘Why Love,’ Asake officially begins his journey as an independent artist under Giran Republic and Empire Music, signaling a bold new phase in his evolving career.