After a breakout run that firmly positioned him as one of Afrobeats’ most exciting new voices, Shoday is set to release his debut album, Hybrid, on February 6. The project captures the duality that has come to define his rise: street-rooted yet melodic, confident yet romantic, viral yet intentional.
Hybrid arrives at a pivotal moment in Shoday’s career, following a year marked by cultural moments, chart success, and growing international attention. In 2025, he delivered standout records like “Nakupenda,” which became a fan favourite and a major streaming success, and “Hey Jago” with Poco Lee and Rahman Jago, a street anthem that dominated conversations and solidified his presence across clubs, campuses, and timelines.
These releases, alongside a string of live performances and viral moments, helped establish Shoday as more than a fleeting sound, but a developing artist with range and direction.
His latest single, Paparazzi with FOLA, has emerged as a defining moment ahead of the album’s launch. The record peaked at No. 1 on Spotify Nigeria’s Top Songs chart, No. 1 on YouTube Nigeria, No. 1 on Apple Music Lagos, and No. 2 on Apple Music Nigeria, while also reaching No. 1 on the TurnTable Top 100, Nigeria’s official industry chart measuring streaming and airplay.
Beyond the charts, Paparazzi has thrived culturally, with its viral spread on TikTok generating over 700,000 user-created videos before and after release, reinforcing Shoday’s reputation for turning social momentum into mainstream success.
Hybrid showcases Shoday’s range, with collaborations that reinforce his versatility and cultural reach. Featured artists include Kizz Daniel, Olivetheboy, Ayo Maff, Taves, Pozer, and Bhadboi OML, among others, each adding distinct energy and perspective to the project. Produced with carefully curated musical direction, the album moves fluidly between vibrant street records, intimate anthems, and melodic explorations that reflect the duality of Shoday’s sound.
Hybrid offers a cohesive musical statement while spotlighting the artist’s depth, authenticity, and creative evolution. It stands as both a milestone and a launching point for what promises to be a defining moment in Shoday’s career.