“This Year (Odun Yi)” was created in Ikeja, Lagos, during a studio session with a young producer,
Blaqjerzy. This was in December 2012. At the time, we weren’t trying to make a hit song, we just
wanted to create something simple and encouraging for our fans as they prepared for a new year. We
started the song on a reggae beat, we explored hip-hop, and were still experimenting when the late
Nomoreloss (musician) walked into the studio. After listening, he said the song was beautiful but
needed a different sound. That moment led us to switch to highlife, which became the song’s
identity. If you listen closely, you’ll hear Nomoreloss on the backup vocals. His contribution was
pure genius. May his soul rest in peace. Blaqjerzy was incredibly patient throughout the process,
and “This Year (Odun Yi)” went on to become his first major hit record. The song gained early
momentum when Osam (OAP) of Naija FM began playing a rough studio copy on radio even before it was
properly mastered and before any official push. At the time, my contract situation was already
nearing its end, but the song was connecting naturally with people. I wasn’t trying to make a hit. I
was simply trying to make an honest, feel-good song to remind people that the new year would be a
blessing. That intention is what gave “Odun Yi (This Year)” its lasting power.
