Nigerian highlife maestro, Flavour N’abania , is celebrating the 15th anniversary of his breakthrough sophomore album, Uplifted, which originally dropped on July 20, 2010, to critical and commercial acclaim.
LEADERSHIP Sunday recalls that at the time of its release, uplifted was praised for blending traditional Igbo highlife rhythms with modern Afropop production. Tracks like “Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix),” “Adamma,” and “Oyi (I Dey Catch Cold)” quickly gained traction across Nigerian airwaves and beyond, creating a cultural phenomenon.
Today, the album remains a streaming powerhouse. According to Spotify data cited by multiple outlets, Uplifted’s standout songs appear on over two million user‑created playlists, and Flavour’s global streams increased by 134 per cent from 2022 to 2024, with a staggering 573 per cent growth in Sub‑Saharan Africa.
In a recent interview referenced, Flavour reflected that “Adamma truly captured the essence of Flavour during the Uplifted era.” He added that seeing the album’s continued relevance worldwide feels like “a blessing”, especially as it now connects seasoned fans with a new generation discovering the playlistable classics.
To mark the milestone, Warner Music Africa has launched a multi-platform anniversary campaign spanning July and August. The initiative includes a 15th anniversary edition featuring refreshed arrangements with The Cavemen, behind‑the‑scenes archival footage, curated playlists, and a one-night-only live showcase event to bring fans and collaborators together.
Industry analysts say Uplifted redefined contemporary Igbo highlife, demonstrating how rooted tradition and global appeal can coexist. The album helped position Flavour as a cultural bridge between Nigeria and the rest of the world, and cemented his place as one of Africa’s enduring musical voices.
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