Reekado Banks Unveiled in 2014 by Don Jazzy alongside Korede Bello and Di’ja, Mavin starlet Reekado Banks has been identified by many as an artiste to watchout for. He has been credited with the composition of
Dorobucci, the label’s biggest hit as a group.
As a solo artist, Reekado Banks has achieved a moderate level of success with songs like Katapot, Corner and more recently Sugar Baby. The nappy haired singer has also been a back to back recipient of the Headies awards for Rookie of the Year and Next Rated Artist. Clearly Reekado Banks has some measure of talent. However, there are factors behind his artistry that question his ability to become a superbrand.
Reekado’s career seems to be suffering from a compulsive ailment of sticking with the safety of the mainstream sound rather than taking risks. In comparison with label mates Di’Ja and Korede Bello and even counterparts like Kiss Daniel and Lil Kesh, Reekado Banks has failed to carve a niche for himself outside the same generic sound the Nigerian public has been overfed with.
Korede Bello has established himself as a radio friendly artist, Di’ja is sticking with her afro-dance hall, Lil Kesh has really witty rhymes and Kiss Daniel is constantly smacking his lips innocently. These may not fully suffice as bases for a successful career, but it has helped to define the artistry of these upcoming artists with a specific feel. Reekado Banks may have demonstrated his versatility content wise, but his delivery still holds the same characteristic of retaining low depth lyricism, vocal fx and rhythm that leans heavily on instrumentals.
Technically, there is nothing wrong with the above features of Bank’s music in relation to Nigerian music. The conundrum however, is how difficult it would be for him to create an enduring brand by merely doing the same as everyone else, especially considering the pressure of being under Don Jazzy whose label has always been affiliated with launching careers with an instant wow-factor.
There is no gainsaying Reekado Banks cannot reach the top of his game as a mainstream artist without having to create a defined niche or brand. The bigger picture however, is in the shoes left by greats like D’banj and Wande Coal who have shared a history with Don Jazzy.
If the singer hopes to fill up these shoes, he will have to make music with a certain touch of dedication and finesse, rather than just anything that plays like a track from Wizkid on a budget.
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