Nigerian music star Asake has released his fourth studio album, M$NEY, a 13-track project that marks a new phase in his artistic and professional journey.
The album, released on Friday, May 1 via GIRAN Republic and EMPIRE, is Asake’s first full-length project under his independent imprint following his exit from YBNL Nation.
It arrives amid sustained momentum for the singer, who already boasts two Grammy nominations, multiple entries on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart, and a record as one of the most-streamed artists on Spotify Nigeria.
M$NEY reflects a wider musical ambition than his previous work. The project is a combination of Afrobeats with elements of jazz, amapiano, orchestral arrangements and live choral performances.
It opens with a choral introduction, an unconventional choice that sets the tone for an album that moves fluidly across genres while maintaining its core African identity.
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The album features international collaborations with French artist Tiakola, global DJ DJ Snake, and South African amapiano producer Kabza De Small, reinforcing its cross-continental appeal.
Speaking on the project, Asake said, “M$NEY is a reflection of my spiritual and creative journey. Everything flows from a place of gratitude to God, and every moment that’s shaped me. I stay true to myself but also weave in new creative expressions from my life experiences and personal evolution.”
The album rollout began months ahead of its release. Fans were first introduced to the project with “Why Love” in February 2025, followed by “Badman Gangsta” featuring Tiakola, and later “Worship” with DJ Snake. Each single hinted at the album’s genre-mixing direction and global ambition.
Beyond the pre-released tracks, the album includes songs such as “Gratitude”, “Forgiveness”, “Rora” and “Asambe”, the latter featuring Kabza De Small. Across the project, Asake explores themes of spirituality, growth, gratitude and personal reflection, reframing the concept of “money” beyond material wealth.
M$NEY follows his 2025 collaborative EP, REAL Vol. 1, with Wizkid, continuing a prolific run that began with Mr Money With The Vibe (2022), Work of Art (2023), and Lungu Boy (2024). Notably, Lungu Boy remains one of the longest-running number one albums in Nigerian chart history.
Early reactions to M$NEY have been largely positive, with listeners praising its production depth and sonic evolution. However, discussions have also emerged around the track “Amen”, particularly its lyrics to political links, which have sparked conversation across social media platforms.
The album artwork, created by Iraqi-Dutch artist Arthar Jabar, further spotlighted the project’s artistic direction, featuring a sculptural representation that aligns with its themes of legacy and introspection.
With M$NEY, Asake positions himself not only as a leading voice in Afrobeats but as an artiste increasingly focused on global reach, experimentation and personal storytelling.
