Diistill begins his 2023 run with his EP Faith Over Fear, which masterfully displays his signature style of infusing Afro-street pop essentials and delivering a selection with high enjoyment and replay value. The vision for the project comes to life through the collective efforts of King Bernard, Godboy, Slim, Johndee, Ehiz, Verified and 225, to mention a few.
Faith Over Fear conveys a message of resilience through tough seasons. Faith Over Fear is my resilience to get back on my feet and to keep following my dreams,” Diistill says. “Growing up in the hood with little to no resources, visibility or connections, It was common for people to give up but I kept telling myself NO. If other people can do it, then it can be done.”
Below is a track-by-track breakdown of Faith Over Fear By Diistill.
Ashluxe (Ashilor): The opening piece is named after an indigenous luxury clothing line. “Ashluxe is a street prayer song reminding the Almighty why needs to bless me ASAP. It started as a freestyle Ashilor Lori Ashilor (the way a regular trenched boy would joke around Ashluxe). It also defines my love for African brands.”
Leg Over: “This is me wanting to give relationships another chance; to woo and be wooed” says Diistill, explaining the theme for the second track. Laced over endearing music, Diistill promises his lover a lifetime of fidelity and fun.
Pray For Me: Pray For Me tells the story of a young Nigerian doing his best to achieve success in a tough environment. Diistill tells us that faith requires work to better propel its manifestation. He takes full responsibility for his wins and losses, losing unnecessary excuses for failure.
225: Diistill mixes things up with this upbeat banger produced by Mansajabulani. The singer is in a heated exchange with this interesting person he has just met. He shares his intentions over a rich percussive display.
Competition: In this Peruzzi-featured track, Diistill balances ego with vulnerability as he expresses his need to be the only person in his partner’s life and his distaste for competition.
God’s Power: Afro-Dancehall enters the mix in what could be mistaken for a street-gospel jam. “Man Power No Be God’s Power” is the repeated chant on the chorus, and the verses hold Diistill’s appreciation for the big and little miracles.
Happy Pills: Released as a single in 2020, the song attracted a remix with Zlatan Ibile and has continued to perform well. Diistill now rides the wave into his first project.