Seven Songs That Defined Show Dem Camp 

Over a decade ago, Show Dem Camp officially marked its presence in the Nigerian music scene, making an artistic statement that laid the groundwork for its cultural dominance. The Juls-produced Feel Alright played a role in elevating their craft to the mainstream and gaining acclaim. Following their 2010 EP Series Clone Wars and debut album The Dreamer Project, Wale Davies and Olumide Ayeni garnered increasing popularity and acclaim within and beyond hip-hop circles.

With three remarkable installments in the Clone Wars EP Series, Show Dem Camp embraced Palmwine Music, a coastal practice predating the popularization of Highlife. This move instantly forged a unique sound, offering fresh variations to familiar themes without erasing the elements fans cherish.

In subsequent years, Show Dem Camp evolved into savants of Nigerian Hip-Hop. While their social commentary about the country’s sociopolitical landscape contributes significantly to their acclaim, their Palmwine songs have solidified their influence on a segment of alternative-influenced pop music.

Here are seven career-defining songs from Show Dem Camp

Live. Love. Laugh. Eat. Ft Sir Dauda (Clone Wars, Vol. 3: The Recession, 2016)

In Live. Love. Laugh. Eat., Ghost and Tec skillfully interweave their unique vocals, infusing reflections on their lives and aspirations. Ghost takes the lead with two emotionally charged and soul-stirring verses. His genuine humane touch is evident, complemented by Tec’s technically resonant and endearing verse. The rarity lies in their ability to complement each other, a quality not commonly found in many rappers.

Feel Alright ft BOJ & Poe (2013)

Beneath the subtle symbolism of Feel Alright lies its enduring impact, serving as a catalyst for the immensely successful Palmwine Music series by SDC. The song elevated BOJ’s status as a top-tier hook singer and provided Juls with the opportunity to refine a sound that significantly influenced the Afrobeats movement, propelling the Ghanaian producer to recognition. Beyond its surface elements, Feel Alright wielded true power, shaping the trajectories of the involved artists and contributing to the evolution of contemporary African music.

Popping ft. BOJ & Odunsi (The Engine) (Palmwine Music, Vol. 1, 2017)

SDC recognized the significance of Palmwine Music, Vol. 1, and Popping serves as the perfect conclusion to this light yet impactful project. The atmosphere is celebratory without veering into kitschiness. Spax’s beat exudes a cool fervor, Tec contributes a verse and BOJ infuses positive vibes with an irresistibly infectious hook. Odunsi’s verse, influenced by SDC, forms a full-circle moment, acknowledging their OG status and referencing his own meteoric rise in an upbeat tone. The brilliance of Popping remains undiminished, showcasing a celebration that feels genuinely earned and purposeful.

Legend ft Burna Boy (Palmwine Music 2, 2018)

Upon the initial listen, Legend emerges as an instant classic, characterized by a red-boned groove. Ghanaian songstress Efya enhances the track with siren-like background scats, skillfully produced by collaborator Spax. Burna Boy, in impeccable form, injects infectious energy with his resonant baritone on a sublime hook. Tec and Ghost seize their claim to legendary status in the most effervescent manner.

For long-time listeners familiar with the duo’s journey, the confidence in Legend is unmistakable, solidifying their place in Nigerian music. The collaboration’s seamless blend of talent and energy creates a good listening experience.

Once Upon A Time (The Dreamer Project, 2011)

Once Upon A Time is a rap masterpiece produced to exhilarate boom-bap enthusiasts. Crafted by Ikon, the track weaves piano sounds, and crisp drums. In this track, Ghost and Tec navigate through their timelines, reflecting on moments that shaped their present. Beyond its storytelling, the song evolves into a heartfelt tribute to kindred spirits on parallel journeys. The synergy of nostalgic beats and lyrical storytelling elevates Once Upon A Time to a compelling ode in the rap genre.

Mine Alone Ft Oxlade

Show Dem Camp’s commitment to love themes continues in Mine Alone, a collaboration with Oxlade. Off Palm Wine Vol. 3, the trio digs into a possessive lover story. The unique and masterfully blended voices of Show Dem Camp and Oxlade convey admiration for a captivating love interest, firmly expressing their disinterest in sharing her. The track’s standout quality lies in its exceptional vocal fusion, making it a remarkable addition to their discography, showcasing their ability to craft a distinctive musical experience with each project. Long-time fans of Show Dem Camp and Oxlade can easily point out the unique chemistry that the trio displayed in this track.

Independent Ladies

Independent Ladies is a track that resonates with empowerment and celebrates the strength of women. “Ten kisses to all my ladies,” they sing. Lyrically, the track emphasizes the self-reliance and confidence of independent women. Show Dem Camp delivers its verses with a mix of clever wordplay and affirmations, highlighting the importance of women standing on their own and being proud of their achievements. The production incorporates a fusion of Afrobeats and hip-hop elements, creating a contemporary and culturally rich sound. The song is characterized by a vibrant and upbeat production, featuring catchy melodies and a compelling rhythm that adds a lively energy to the overall vibe.

Independent Ladies showcases Show Dem Camp’s musical versatility and also aligns with a positive and empowering message. It’s a feel-good track that encourages women to embrace their strength, individuality, success and a testament to Show Dem Camp’s ability to blend themes with infectious beats, making it a standout in their discography.