The Afrobeats singer, songwriter, and pianist, Mayorkun’s trendy banger, Certified Loner is a self-appraisal from a place of pride. The subtitle, No Competition is highly suggestive of a pretty boy that likes no stress. This song is not just enjoyable for dancing but replete with insights into the life of the artiste.
I listened to this song for three days on repeat upon its release. It is sweet melodies, hurt pride, and everything unrequited love can do to a man. This description may trick you into thinking it has a subtle tone. However, it is typically energetic, and a club/party anthem. It literally changes the tempo at any party, making feet ready for dancing. Just like at a Lagos party, you will hear resounding screams of eeeiii at the rhythm of the intro. I will delve into the confessional lyrics since we all agree this is a hardcore banger.
The first message we get is a ‘breakfast’ case. Apparently, e dey actually touch everybody. Breakups have become ubiquitous, regardless of whom or what the relationship involves; they can be over at any time. However, the tone of our guy, The Mayor of Lagos, is insurmountable. He dismisses this unknown lover, reiterating that he can do well in his solitude. He extends this invulnerable attitude to his mom. He insists he can do bad all by himself and has broken free from parental guidance. But, it’s no cause for alarm as he is under control and a certified Loner.
Rather than the general aura of pride, we may deduce that his words come from pain; the pain of losing a loved one to vain friendship advice, though the hard guy impression conceals the distress. Mayorkun is a remarkable hitmaker. His songs never fall short of our expectations, showcasing him as skillful and talented in making music.
To reinforce his badass positioning, he paints a picture of his celebrity lifestyle. Amidst the highs and lows of being human, he will pull up to anywhere with boldness. This song eventually takes us to the club. We can feel the vibe when he starts to mention ‘shayo’. Partying is undeniably a coping mechanism for those that love it. Loud music, alcohol, and dancing will ease your worries, ‘breakfast’ or not.
If isokuso is the bedrock of his breakup, his hard feelings are valid. This hearsay, however, doesn’t stop him from boasting that he is exclusive and irreplaceable. His melodies are also not affected as this song is a masterpiece. This love loss as reflected in this song reminds fans that his Betty Butter has not been seen in his recent posts. Coincidence or mere assumptions are given the content of his lyrics?
Is he really good on his own? His final lines are swarming with vulnerability. His love as well as the breakup have obvious effects on his mind and tone. He reminisces about good times and the many things he misses. There’s always that one person that leaves cracks in your defense. Worse still, the defense and hardcore are shattered, you may be left trying to button up your emotions. We cannot help but notice Mayorkun’s failed attempt at being uptight.
As a signee to DMW, under Davido, he released Eleko with a vibe that is evergreen. He left the record label in 2021. Meanwhile, in 2018 he released his superb album, now utilised as his nickname, The Mayor of Lagos. His music career is beautifully basking in the hard work he puts into creating hits back to back.
Dancing to someone’s pain has never been more exciting. This is very ironic but it reinforces that good music is not limited to only good feelings. Good music is an embodiment of the good, bad, and everything in between.
Clara Gaiya, an entrepreneur, writes from Lagos.
Ayodelé is a Lagos-based journalist and the Content and Editorial Coordinator at Meiza. All around the megacity, I am steering diverse lifestyle magazine audiences with ingenious hacks and insights that spur fast, informed decisions in their busy lives.
