Breakups can be tough, leaving us feeling heartbroken and lost. But fear not! Music has a magical way of healing wounds and soothing our souls. These Nigerian artists have poured their hearts into songs that resonate with the pain of lost love. Whether you’re nursing a broken heart or simply need a musical companion after being served “breakfast”, these ten Nigerian songs are here to help you navigate the emotional rollercoaster.
- “Not The Girl” – Darey
In 2008, Darey released one of the best breakup songs of all time. “Not The Girl” dominated the airwaves in the late 2000s, and its emotional intensity still hits home today. Lines like “You’re not the girl I used to know, you’re a shadow of yourself, I think I lost you a long ago” capture the pain of fading love.
- “Bibanke” – Asa
Asa’s “Bibanke” is a soul-stirring track that captivates listeners with its emotive lyrics and Asa’s distinctive voice. Released as part of her self-titled debut album in 2007, the song weaves a narrative of love, heartbreak, and the complexities of relationships. “Bibanke” remains a timeless piece, showcasing Asa’s ability to convey deep emotions through her music.
- “Understand” – Omah Lay
Omah Lay’s 2021 hit song “Understand” is a subtle breakup anthem. He narrates a story of going to great lengths to please a lover, only to end up heartbroken. The line “chopping breakfast” cleverly encapsulates the confusion and hurt.
- “Soso” – Omah Lay
Omah Lay’s “Soso,” featured on his 2022 album “Boy Alone,” stands out as one of the album’s top-performing tracks. The song delves into Omah Lay’s personal experience of heartbreak, with the singer urging his lover to alleviate his pain. The lyrics vividly depict the aftermath of the emotional incident, as Omah Lay describes his feelings through lines like “I poto poto my eyes, Ten shots, High rise, Touch God, I cry, Offshore, Cut my dreadlocks”.
- “Thunder Fire You” – Ric Hassani
In 2019, Ric Hassani cursed his lover for serving him “breakfast” in the hit song “Thunder Fire You.” The raw emotion in his voice echoes the pain of betrayal and loss.
- “Fuck You” – Kizz Daniel
In 2019, Kizz Daniel dropped “Fvck You,” a track that later became part of his 2020 album, “King Of Love.” This song gained significant support upon its release, addressing the anguish of being betrayed by a cheating lover. Kizz Daniel openly expresses his frustration, highlighting the pain with lines such as “Why Olosho con be your hobby? Wait, before I lose control.”
- “Last Last” – Burna Boy
Burna Boy’s recent breakup with British rapper Stefflon Don inspired “Last Last.” He bares his soul, singing, “Why you say I did nothing for you, when I for do anything you want me to do, Maybe another time, maybe another life you will be my wife and we’ll get it right.” The word “breakfast” is a Nigerian slang which means “breakup”.
- “Don’t Call Me Back” – Joeboy ft. Mayorkun
In 2019, Mayorkun and Joeboy collaborated on “Don’t Call Me Back.” The story revolves around a lover who can’t move on after being served “breakfast.” It’s a relatable tale of lingering feelings.
- “Damages” – Tems
Tems, tired of being played, serves her lover a metaphorical “breakfast” in “Damages.” Her soulful voice expresses the pain of reaching a breaking point – “No more damages”.
- “E Pain Me” – Davido
Davido’s “E Pain Me” surfaced in 2023 within his fourth studio album, “Timeless”. Among the latest additions to the song list, it narrates a tale of heartbreak and unfulfilled promises. Davido vividly describes the emotional turmoil, expressing the pain with lines like “She entered my life and took my heart away, it hurts me, oh, it hurts me.” He further reflects on the significant efforts he invested, singing, “Wetin I no do for you? Shey you promise say you no go let me go, And last night you tell me say it’s over.”
- “Out of Love” – Chike
Chike’s “Out of Love” completes our list. His heart-wrenching story mirrors that of many others. Sometimes, love fades, and we’re left with the remnants of a once beautiful connection.
Music has the power to heal, and these Nigerian songs offer solace during heartbreak. So, grab your headphones, let the melodies wash over you, and remember that you’re not alone. Life goes on, and so does the music.
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