Temidayo Balogun and AKÉDE released their album “Afrolution” on July 3, 2026, through BTmA Records. The project explores African political thought, Pan-Africanism and the relationship between African musical traditions and jazz.
The album’s title is derived from “Afro-centric Solution,” a concept centred on addressing Africa’s challenges through ideas and approaches rooted in African perspectives and experiences. Its themes include self-determination, collective responsibility and the legacy of colonialism, drawing on the Pan-African ideas of Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah.
Across the project, the music incorporates African traditions, jazz and political commentary. “Ori I: Concept of Democracy” draws on Yoruba cosmology and the concept of Ori, which refers to an individual’s inner essence or destiny. Its companion piece, “Ori II,” continues the exploration of personal agency and the role of individual conviction in social change.
“Òṣùṣù Ọwọ̀,” which translates to a bound broom, uses Yoruba percussion instruments including dùndún, omele, agogo and sekere. The composition draws on Yoruba rhythmic structures and language to explore unity and collective strength.
Other tracks address African political history and activism. “African Revolution” incorporates a musical motif derived from elements of South Africa’s national anthem, while “ttowgfuth – Jan 17th 1961” references Patrice Lumumba, the Congolese independence leader assassinated on January 17, 1961. “Struggle Continues” commemorates the 2020 #EndSARS protests and connects the movement to the album’s wider themes of political change and African self-determination.
“Afrolution” is available on streaming platforms.