Timaya Takes Victory Lap With Ninth Studio Album “Gladiator”

Nigerian music icon and afro dancehall legend Timaya makes a return with his ninth studio album GLADIATOR, a triumphant ode and testament to his enduring musical legacy, and exciting artistic journey so far. Over a career spanning two decades, Timaya has remained an essential and unyielding force in global music, and this new album Gladiator stands as a testament to his relentlessness, consistency, and artistic evolution. The album captures the essence of Timaya’s storied career, which began with the breakout success of Dem Mama in 2005, and solidifies his place as one of Africa’s most enduring and influential musicians. The album is a powerful narrative of Timaya’s life, reflecting the battles he has fought and the victories he has claimed, all while staying true to his roots.

Bursting with vibrant rhythms, and infectious melodies, Gladiator is a masterful blend of dancehall, soca, Afrobeats and, hip-hop, showcasing Timaya’s versatility and his deft ability to seamlessly fuse genres and make them his own. The 12-track album sees Timaya collaborating with the likes of rap icon Phyno, YBNL leader Olamide, Afrobeats queen Tiwa Savage, and Jamaican dancehall star Konshens, and adding a rich diversity of sounds and styles that elevate the album to new heights. The production, spearheaded by frequent collaborator Young D (Gyptian, Davido), and industry heavyweights like Jonny Blaze (Shenseea, Mavado, Sean Paul) and Masterkraft (Wizkid, Flavour), creates a lush and dynamic soundscape that perfectly complements Timaya’s powerful storytelling throughout the album.

Speaking about the inspiration behind Gladiator, and how the record came together, Timaya says,

This Gladiator project is more than just an album to me – it’s a movement, a testimony to self-belief, and the courage to rise above no matter the challenges. This project reflects my journey, from where I started to where I am today, and where I’m headed. Music has given me everything, and this album is my way of giving back, because I will keep giving it all I have. I want to ignite a fire within my listeners, to remind them of the power they hold within themselves, and to encourage them to keep going, no matter what life throws at them. Life comes in phases, but you can’t lose yourself – you just have to keep going”.