Nigerian super-producer Sarz has released his highly anticipated debut album, Protect Sarz at All Costs. The 12-track project marks a pivotal moment for the architect behind some of Afrobeats foremost anthems, like Lojay Monalisa, Wizkid’s Come Closer, and Davido’s FEM, as he steps fully into the spotlight as a lead artist. Blending his highly skilled production with experimental rhythms and layered sounds, the album fuses Afrobeats, R&B, Dancehall, Amapiano and popular music influences. This sonic adventure celebrates creativity, collaboration and cultural impact. Now available on DSPs, Protect Sarz at All Costs arrives amid Sarz’s mentorship of emerging talents through his Sarz Academy, underscoring his role as a guardian of the genre.
The album’s title serves as a rallying cry, a reminder of Sarz’s irreplaceable contributions to Afrobeats and a declaration of artistic autonomy. The album is a dynamic body of work that balances club-ready bangers with soulful, introspective cuts, rooted in Afrobeats but pushing boundaries with amapiano flourishes, melodic guitar riffs, and atmospheric synths. From the high-energy opener to reflective interludes, the project explores themes of legacy, hustle, and joy, reflecting Sarz’s decade-plus journey from Edo – Lagos studios to global charts. The striking cover art, a fiery red silhouette of Sarz with arms outstretched, symbolizes this bold stance, hinting at an introspective yet powerful narrative.
Protect Sarz at All Costs boasts an eclectic lineup of collaborators, handpicked to amplify Sarz’s diverse production palette and bridge African and international sounds. Asake and Wizkid reunite with Sarz on Getting Paid, joined by dancehall sensation Skillibeng for a pulsating track that nods to their storied histories. Qing Madi infuses ethereal vibes on In A Mustang, while Teni and Libianca bring their positive energy to a feel-good tune, African Barbie. Lojay, Sarz’s frequent collaborator, appears on Loved Me Then and Billions. WurlD delivers a smooth, nostalgic vibe on the track, Nice n’ Slow, that echoes their past chemistry. Stars like Shallipopi and Odumodublvck team up with Francophone singer Theodora and Lebanese-Canadian artist Zeina on Mademoiselle, a multilingual fusion packed with hit potential. Other notable features include Gunna on the previously released Happiness, Joeboy on Body, Victony on Up, and more.
Standout tracks like Getting Paid pulse with triumphant beats, celebrating success and longevity, while Mademoiselle stands out for its genre-blending innovation and youthful exuberance. The album’s production, handled primarily by Sarz himself, features experimental elements like subtle electronic drops and live instrumentation, ensuring each song feels alive and replayable.
Unveiled with a cheeky rollout featuring mock press conferences and comedic skits, the album has ignited massive buzz since it was announced. Fans and critics praise its seamless execution and Sarz’s evolution from behind-the-scenes maestro to front-and-center visionary, positioning Protect Sarz at All Costs as a landmark in the genre’s global ascent.
