Bright Chimezie Re-Releases 'Because of English' After Davido Sample Sparks Resurgence

Nigerian Highlife icon Bright Chimezie has unveiled an acoustic rendition of his classic hit, 'Because of English,' four decades after its initial release. The reimagining arrives on the heels of a significant commercial revival, fueled by a sample in Davido's popular track 'With You,' featuring Omah Lay.

A Timeless Message Reimagined

Chimezie's 'Because of English' originally served as a poignant commentary on the linguistic and cultural implications of colonialism in Nigeria. The song humorously, yet critically, addressed the societal pressure to prioritize English proficiency, often at the expense of indigenous languages.

This new acoustic version strips away the vibrant Highlife instrumentation of the original, replacing it with a more intimate and emotionally charged arrangement. The focus shifts towards the lyrical content, amplifying the song's message about cultural identity and linguistic pride.

Resurgence Sparked by Afrobeats Sampling

The renewed interest in 'Because of English' stems from its inclusion in Davido's 'With You,' a track from his fifth album, '5ive'. The album has enjoyed considerable commercial success, bringing Chimezie's classic to a new generation of listeners. This sampling trend highlights the growing practice of Afrobeats artists drawing inspiration from and paying homage to the rich musical heritage of Nigeria's past.

Expert Perspectives on Cultural Significance

Dr. Nkechi Okoro, a Professor of African Languages and Literature at the University of Lagos, notes the enduring relevance of Chimezie's message. " 'Because of English' speaks to a complex issue of linguistic dominance and its impact on cultural identity. The song's resurgence, particularly through Afrobeats, demonstrates its continued resonance with contemporary Nigerian society. It prompts a necessary conversation about valuing our indigenous languages and resisting the pressure to solely prioritize English."

Music critic and cultural commentator, Osagie Alonge, adds, "The sampling of classic Nigerian songs by Afrobeats artists isn't just about nostalgia; it's about bridging the gap between generations. It's about reminding younger audiences of the foundation upon which contemporary Nigerian music is built. Bright Chimezie's re-release is a testament to the timeless quality of his work and the power of sampling to introduce it to a wider audience."

Historical Context: Language and Colonial Legacy

Nigeria's linguistic landscape is incredibly diverse, with hundreds of indigenous languages spoken across the country. However, English, inherited from British colonial rule, remains the official language and is often associated with education, social status, and economic opportunity. This historical context has created a complex dynamic, where proficiency in English is often seen as a prerequisite for success, potentially marginalizing those who are not fluent.

Chimezie's 'Because of English' captured this tension, highlighting the experiences of individuals who faced ridicule or punishment for speaking their native languages in schools or other formal settings. The song became an anthem for linguistic pride and a call for greater recognition and respect for Nigeria's diverse linguistic heritage.

Looking Ahead: A Call to Veteran Artists

The success of 'Because of English (Acoustic)' serves as an inspiration for other veteran Nigerian musicians to revisit and reimagine their classic works. By updating their music for a contemporary audience, they can introduce their artistry to a new generation while also preserving and celebrating Nigeria's rich musical legacy. The song also reminds us of the importance of protecting and promoting indigenous Nigerian languages.

Key Takeaways

Bright Chimezie releases an acoustic version of 'Because of English' after 40 years. The resurgence is due to Davido sampling the song in his hit 'With You.' The song addresses the impact of colonial-era language policing in Nigeria. Experts emphasize the continued relevance of the song's message about cultural identity and linguistic pride. The release encourages other veteran artists to revisit and reimagine their old works.