In 2019, Bella Shmurda’s career took off on a colourful note after the crooner got Olamide featured on his Vision 2020 Remix, a hit that generated a lot of local support. This was followed by his debut EP High Tension in which he documented the vicissitudes of street life and connected better with ordinary people in society. His upward mobility became inevitable, as he strategically positioned himself as the voice of the street. Two years later, he released his sophomore EP High Tension 2.0, introducing a unique point in his career, his dreams and aspirations, a growth process that is also reflected in the album Hypertension.
As a follow-up to his evolving music legacy, Bella Shmurda has resurfaced with his latest EP DND, which stands for Do Not Disturb. The title is more or less a metaphor for his willingness to make the best of his current moment as an Afrobeats connoisseur. On this project, his self-awareness and contentment are evident, as he basks in the current phase of his career. Here, his artistic posture sharply contrasts the struggles and ambitions reflected and insinuated in his previous projects.
A six-track engagement, Bella Shmurda’s latest EP starts with In Charge announcing the artist. Next comes Ara (Gen Gen Gen) in which the artist assesses himself as a person currently capable of funding his interests. He throws shots at his critics, some of whom once characterized him as a loafer. In NSV, which features Tiwa Savage, the atmosphere is celebratory as the artist keeps the fun going.
Lil Kesh hops on the titular track, DND, with a rap verse that is sexually blunt and refreshing on the hit, as Bella Shmurda keeps his audience informed of a raunchy experience with an object of affection. In Bankruptcy, Bella Shmurda joins forces with Pheelz as the duo fawn over hypothetical love interests with reckless abandon. A similarly romantic mood is sustained in the album’s farewell track Jojo, as the artist bows out in a manner that is sure to have fans pleased with his high spirits.
DND is a confirmation that Bella Shmurda has outgrown his past plights and embraced the reality of a flourishing musical career. Now he has more time, money, and fame to live out his fantasies, patronizing romantic relationships, fun outings, and sexual adventures, while spiting his doubters. Unencumbered by very little emotional baggage, except for the subtle jibes hurled at his critics, the crooner makes optimal use of his sonic abilities.
Listen to DND.