The Rose Amid Ojo’s thorns: Crayon’s Journey told in ‘TRENCHES TO TRIUMPH’ Album
The hood of Ojo in Lagos is a place where tough choices are a daily reality, especially when charting a path toward a promising future. Yet, amid these challenges, Charles Chibueze Chukwu, better known as Crayon, has risen like a phoenix. Signed to the prestigious MAVIN record label, Crayon’s journey is a testament to the magic that happens when raw talent meets unwavering determination.
Crayon’s music is a vibrant palette of sounds, much like a box of crayons bursting with color. His debut album, “Trench to Triumph”, is a testament to his multifaceted talent and current state of success. This album masterfully blends themes of love, humility, and irresistible club anthems, presenting a collection of smooth, eclectic tracks that captivate listeners with their evocative lyrics and mesmerizing melodies.
Since bursting onto the scene over five years ago, Crayon has deftly carved out a niche in Nigeria’s pop market with his catchy songs and enchanting hooks. His 2019 debut EP, Cray Cray, was a masterclass in finding joy within the mundane, wrapped in cohesive and vibrant production that showcased his innate ability to transform everyday experiences into sonic gold.
The album features a rich tapestry of instrumentation, weaving beautiful guitar riffs, vibrant horns, and choral backups into its fabric. Crayon’s distinctive style and his adept handling of various moods stay authentically true to his artistic identity.
Trench to Triumph is a 13-track journey that kicks off with the slow, soulful “Calvary Kid,” effortlessly drawing listeners into Crayon’s melodic world. The tempo picks up with the Oxlade collaboration “Trench Kid,” where Crayon masterfully showcases his rhythmic flow. Adding to the album’s depth are standout features from Ayra Starr, Victony, Yaba Buluku Boyz, Magixx, and Ktizo, each contributing their unique flair to this captivating collection.
Crayon’s mastery of the pidgin language and his knack for transforming simple lyrics into unforgettable lines shine brilliantly throughout the album. Tracks like “Wetin Go Be” are a testament to his skill in crafting relatable and impactful music.
Crayon’s world is deeply rooted in Ojo, a place that has honed his art of wordplay. The album’s slang and linguistic nuances are richly inspired by his days in Ojo, resonating profoundly with those who share his upbringing. This deep connection to his roots adds an authentic layer to his music, making it a vivid and immersive experience for listeners.
The enchanting collaboration “Ngozi,” featuring Ayra Starr, emerges as a highlight on Crayon’s latest album, seamlessly blending playful pop sensibilities with a poignant love narrative. Boasting over 100 million streams and achieving chart-topping success across multiple countries, the track exemplifies Crayon’s magnetic appeal and ability to resonate on a global scale. Directed by the visionary Director K, the accompanying music video adds a cinematic dimension, enriching the song’s compelling storyline with visual splendor.
Notably, amidst the enduring relevance of “Ngozi,” it’s intriguing to highlight the presence of Nollywood luminary Ngozi Nwosu, whose profound impact on Nigeria’s entertainment landscape resonates deeply with Crayon’s upbringing. While not a direct influence on the creation of the track itself, her cultural significance undoubtedly adds an emotional layer to Crayon’s artistic narrative. His team’s adeptness at channeling this sentiment creatively underscores their ability to forge genuine connections and inspire fervent fan engagement through their music.
“you gimme light bi ti solar”
Can feel your love taking over
On a good day, I be loner
See what you make discover ah, Girl you don change my persona ahn
The revelation is in order
All the pressure I been under
Why I call you Ngozi
God don bless me, Ngozi
“BelleFull,” featuring Victony and Ktizo, emerges as a standout track that seamlessly blends the vibrant energy of highlife with the pulsating beats of electronic dance music. Crayon’s ability to fuse these genres underscores his versatility and knack for creating infectious rhythms that captivate listeners.
His eclectic musical taste and deep appreciation for diverse genres are evident throughout the album, contributing to his distinct sound. It’s a testament to Crayon’s journey from the trenches of Ojo to becoming a symbol of hope and resilience in the music industry.
Reflecting on his growth, Crayon expressed gratitude for the opportunity to tour with Rema in 2023, a milestone that coincided with the release of his album. “Joining Rema on tour was a pivotal moment for me,” he shared during a radio interview at Cool FM, one of Nigeria’s premier urban music stations. His journey, marked by consistency and evolution, continues to resonate with fans, making “Trench to Triumph” a defining chapter in his musical legacy.
With its cohesive sound and deeply resonant tracks, Trench to Triumph made an indelible mark on the Afrobeats scene. As the year unfolds, Crayon’s latest masterpiece not only sets the stage for his future endeavors but beckons listeners to delve deeper into his musical universe. Imagine the next time you’re caught by a vibrant, irresistible hook reverberating through the air—it could very well be Crayon, painting the town anew with his unmatched musical prowess.