Bright Chimezie Re-Releases 'Because of English' Following Resurgence Fueled by Davido Sample

Nigerian Highlife legend Bright Chimezie has unveiled a new acoustic rendition of his iconic 1984 hit, 'Because of English,' capitalizing on the song's recent resurgence in popularity. The revitalized track arrives four decades after its initial release, spurred by a sample in Davido's chart-topping single, 'With You,' featuring Omah Lay.

Acoustic Version Emphasizes Social Commentary

Chimezie's 'Because of English' originally served as a witty yet poignant social commentary on the linguistic biases prevalent during the colonial era. The new acoustic version strips away the familiar Highlife bounce, replacing it with raw, resonant strings to amplify the emotional weight of the lyrics. The updated arrangement underscores the song's message of cultural pride and the importance of preserving indigenous languages.

“Because of English, my teacher punished me,” Chimezie sings in the song, a line that now resonates with both nostalgic familiarity and renewed urgency.

Resurgence Sparked by Afrobeats Collaboration

The song's unexpected return to the spotlight is largely attributed to Davido's sampling of 'Because of English' in his recent hit, 'With You.' This collaboration, featured on Davido's fifth album '5ive,' introduced Chimezie's classic to a new generation of listeners and reignited interest in his extensive discography.

Expert Perspective: The Power of Sampling and Intergenerational Dialogue

Musicologist Dr. Adebayo Oluwale, a lecturer at the University of Lagos, commented on the significance of this musical revival. "The sampling of classic Nigerian songs by contemporary Afrobeats artists like Davido is more than just a trend; it's a vital form of intergenerational dialogue," Dr. Oluwale stated. "It bridges the gap between different eras of Nigerian music, introducing younger audiences to the rich heritage of artists like Bright Chimezie while simultaneously giving these veteran musicians a renewed platform."

Historical Context: Language and Colonialism in Nigeria

The original 'Because of English' was released during a period of intense national identity formation in Nigeria, following decades of British colonial rule. The song directly addresses the cultural and psychological impact of the colonial education system, where indigenous languages were often suppressed in favor of English. The song tapped into a deep well of shared experience, resonating with many Nigerians who had faced similar forms of linguistic discrimination.

A Call to Veteran Artists

The resurgence of 'Because of English' and its subsequent acoustic re-release has sparked a broader conversation within the Nigerian music industry. Many see it as an encouraging sign for other veteran artists to revisit and reimagine their classic works, potentially reaching new audiences and solidifying their legacy.

The Enduring Appeal of the Zigima Sound

Bright Chimezie, known for his unique "Zigima Sound," has remained a prominent figure in Nigerian music for decades. His music consistently blends entertainment with social commentary, offering insightful observations on Nigerian society and culture. The re-release of 'Because of English (Acoustic)' reaffirms the enduring relevance of his work and its ability to connect with audiences across generations.

The Future of Nigerian Music: A Blend of Old and New

The success of 'Because of English' highlights a growing trend in Nigerian music: the fusion of classic sounds with contemporary styles. This trend suggests a bright future for the industry, where the rich heritage of Nigerian music is celebrated and reinterpreted for new audiences. The song serves as a reminder that our languages are not just tools but treasures and the importance of cultural preservation.