Nigerian singer-songwriter Peruzzi delivers his fourth studio album, SABALI, a 17-track odyssey of patience-fueled introspection and sonic versatility. The project emerges after a deliberate creative hiatus, embodying the word for “patience” that defines its essence. SABALI weaves heartfelt narratives of love, resilience, and ambition across a spectrum of genres, from Afrobeats to highlife and Afro-soul. This long-awaited body of work reaffirms Peruzzi’s prowess as a melodic storyteller, blending his signature R&B-infused vocals with pulsating rhythms that could potentially bring him back to his best form.
SABALI masterfully balances emotional depth with energy, exploring the quiet triumphs of endurance in romance and the grind of success, all while honouring Nigerian heritage through subtle traditional infusions. Peruzzi’s warm, emotive delivery anchors the album, gliding over mid-tempo grooves and layered percussion that evoke Lagos nights alive with possibility. The project’s deliberate pacing, mirroring its titular theme, allows space for vulnerability, as seen in soulful confessions and triumphant flexes, creating a cohesive narrative that feels personal and relatable. The evolution from his prior releases showcases a mature artistry, where Afropop’s vibrancy meets introspective lyricism for a sound that is as replayable in quiet reflection as it is in euphoric gatherings.
Highlights pepper the runtime, starting with the opener Die It that sets a confessional tone, followed by Apala Drill featuring his boss Davido for a genre-bending fusion of tradition and trap. Perfect Situation reunites Peruzzi with Davido, Mayorkun, and Dremo in a seamless DMW throwback laced with charisma and finesse, while Cooking Pot pairs him with Jeriq for a gritty street anthem simmering with hustle and swagger. Nuff Respect features Jesse Jagz for lyrical depth, Mad Oh brings The Cavemen’s highlife warmth to tales of admiration, and You with Kemuel delivers a melodic ode to affection. Other gems include Ecstasy featuring JujuBoy and Nana Kwabena, Legalize as a committed solo ballad, and closers like Time Of My Life featuring Esoterica, ensuring a star-studded yet balanced showcase that spotlights both heavyweights like Timaya and Zlatan alongside rising voices such as Terri, Bella Shmurda, Gazo, The Flowolf, and more.
As Afrobeats solidifies its global throne, SABALI arrives as a beacon of thoughtful innovation, already surging on streaming charts with early acclaim for its emotional resonance and collaborative synergy. Fans are streaming, hailing it as a potential standout of 2025. Available now on all major streaming platforms, the album invites immersion into Peruzzi’s world of patient perseverance and unyielding passion.
Listen to SABALI here.
