Nigerian Artist Qing Madi Releases Melodic New Single Ahead of Forthcoming EP

Reared on a steady diet of hip-hop and R&B luminaries, Buvision/Columbia recording artist Qing Madi’s music is a testament to her maturity, eschewing despair for lyrics replete with hope, escapism, and a profound sense of interconnectedness. The young artist’s distinctive, effervescent song craft combines melodicism, irresistible rhythmic drive and inspiration that fulfill her goal of making music that’s “fun, uplifting, empowering and celebratory.” One listens to her latest single, “Why,” which will confirm why the Nigerian star has been deemed the “next up” out of West Africa.

While gracefully following in the footsteps of legendary Afrobeat giants, the 16-year-old brazenly carved her musical niche with her self-described Afro-R&B sound. Her latest single, “Why,” is the follow-up to “See Finish,” released earlier this year which garnered over 8.2 million streams. Qing Madi says the single was inspired by her former classmates, who would often feel entitled to her attention when she was trying to chase her dreams. The official video for “Why,” shot in Lagos, Nigeria, showcases a more empathetic side to the young virtuoso where she tackles issues like bullying, friendship and pursuing life goals. With dancing skills reminiscent of the late Aaliyah, the classically trained ballerina flexes her vocal range to glimpse her forthcoming EP.

Through it all, Qing Madi’s remained grounded. And therein lies much of her appeal. In a time when many rising pop stars have become further removed from the folks they speak to with their custom-made looks and unattainable lifestyles, Qing Madi remains a lot like us: a tender, tough, tough, self-possessed young lady who puts her community before commercial concerns. When summing up what her music is about, Qing Madi offers a simple answer: “I have an unbelievable story to tell.”