Timaya Continues His Run Of Artistic Relevance On His 9th Studio Album Gladiator

“Gladiator” is a victorious symphony, themed around self-belief, success, confidence, hedonism, and love.

Timaya continues to affirm his artistic relevance with his 9th studio album, “Gladiator.” Known for his consistent sound and ability to navigate the challenges of the music industry, Timaya has indeed earned the title of a musical gladiator.

Much like spectators in a Roman arena, the music audience thrives on entertainment, offering their support but not necessarily their loyalty. Timaya, however, has managed to maintain both since his breakout in 2005 with “Dem Mama.”

“Gladiator” is a victorious symphony, themed around self-belief, success, confidence, hedonism, and love. It opens with “Pay Back,” an Afro-pop anthem where Timaya unapologetically celebrates his success, confronting his past rejections with a bold assertion of triumph.

The track sets the tone for the album with lines that reflect his unyielding resolve and gratification.

“Live-style” continues this narrative, where Timaya asserts his superstar status, blending blunt motivation with a declaration of independence from financial validation. The album then takes a playful turn with “Sweet Us,” which became a hit upon release. Here, Timaya mixes his signature Konto and Dancehall rhythms with political satire, crafting a sound that revels in overcoming adversity.

Throughout “Gladiator,” Timaya melds Afrobeats, Highlife, Dancehall, Soca, and Hip-hop, supported by stellar production from Masterkraft, Young D, and Jonny Blaze. His ability to combine local and international sounds, particularly Dancehall, sets him apart in the contemporary music scene.

The album’s narrative deepens with “Compozure,” an Afrobeats and Highlife fusion that demands listeners to dance, followed by “Treasure,” where Timaya collaborates with Olamide and Phyno. This track weaves emotions of love and vulnerability with strong lyrical interplay and captivating hooks..

In “Free,” Timaya embraces the carefree vibes of Amapiano and House music, reflecting his journey toward mental liberation. “Whinin Criminal” revisits Dancehall, a genre Timaya has mastered, using nostalgic lines and fresh collaborations to maintain the album’s momentum.

“Smile” and “Dey Your Dey” showcase Timaya’s ability to blend introspection with exuberance, using traditional sounds and modern rhythms to explore themes of peace and playfulness. The album also features a gospel-themed track, “Blessings,” with Eugy Official, enhancing the spiritual undertone of his narrative.

Finally, “Gladiator” closes with “Get My Money Right,” a song about financial independence and success that encapsulates Timaya’s journey and resilience.

Throughout “Gladiator,” Timaya melds Afrobeats, Highlife, Dancehall, Soca, and Hip-hop, supported by stellar production from Masterkraft, Young D, and Jonny Blaze. His ability to combine local and international sounds, particularly Dancehall, sets him apart in the contemporary music scene.

While his lyrics might lack depth for some, his melodic energy and the authenticity of his sound—mixing Pidgin English with native languages—continue to resonate with a wide audience, securing his place as a perennial favorite in clubs and on the streets.

EP review was written by Ikechukwu Ifezue , who is an OAP and a culture writer whose interest revolves around the art and science of music.