May 31, 2019 » Critic Circle

KhaleedTheFirst’s ‘Top Boy’ Remix ft. Odumodublvck Climbs to #42 on Sierra Leone’s Apple Music Alternative Chart

Taves, born Aluko Toluwanimi on June 23, 2003, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, has emerged as one of the most exciting young voices in the Nigerian music scene. With a unique ability to blend Afrobeat, R&B, and pop into a sound that feels both familiar and refreshingly innovative, Taves is redefining expectations of what it means to be an Afro-fusion artist today. His journey began humbly in the culturally rich city of Ibadan, where he was exposed to a mix of traditional and contemporary music that would later influence his artistry. From an early age, music served as both a creative outlet and a source of inspiration. Guided by the soulful melodies of Aṣa and the emotive storytelling of international acts like Khalid and Ed Sheeran, Taves began crafting his sound—a careful balance of introspection, melody, and rhythm. Taves took his first professional step in music with the release of his debut single, Betterment, in 2021. The track, which introduced listeners to his emotive vocals and thoughtful lyrics, marked the beginning of a promising career. He followed it up with 5AM Dreaming, a song that resonated deeply with fans and would later become part of his debut EP, 18. Released in 2021, the EP showcased his versatility, with tracks that explored themes of ambition, self-discovery, and youthful aspirations. His breakout moment came in 2022 when his cover of BNXN’s (formerly BUJU) For Days gained significant traction online. The viral moment not only drew attention to his talent but also solidified his relationship with BNXN, eventually leading to a record deal with To Your Ears Entertainment, BNXN's record label. Through this partnership, Taves gained access to a global audience, supported by the label’s affiliation with Atlantic Records UK. This milestone marked a turning point, providing the resources and platform to elevate his artistry to new heights. In 2023, with the backing of To Your Ears Entertainment, Taves released the highly anticipated single Eleyele, which added another layer to his growing catalog. The song was well-received by fans and critics alike, further solidifying his position in the Nigerian music scene. 2024 saw Taves expanding his repertoire even further. He released a two-track capsule featuring Bodija and Folake, followed by A Million Things and In The City, each song showcasing his dynamic vocal delivery and ability to experiment with different genres and styles. This was just a precursor to his sophomore release, the 8-track EP Are You Listening?, which dropped later in 2024. The EP demonstrated his continued growth as an artist, with standout tracks like Bad Romance reflecting his depth as a storyteller and his evolving sound. Taves' contributions extended beyond his own music as he also featured on BNXN’s debut album Sincerely BNXN. His contribution added a fresh dimension to the project, highlighting his ability to complement BNXN’s sound while maintaining his unique identity. This collaboration played a key role in further solidifying Taves as an artist to watch in the Nigerian and international music scenes. Throughout his career, Taves has also been featured on notable tracks with other prominent Nigerian artists, including LAX and Ladipoe. These collaborations further expanded his visibility and solidified his place in the African music landscape. As of December 2024, Taves continues to ride high on the success of his recent release, Adanna, and his sophomore EP. His unique ability to blend Afrobeat, R&B, and pop with emotionally charged lyrics has earned him a dedicated fanbase and the respect of industry peers. Taves’ story is one of passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His ability to blend genres, connect emotionally with his audience, and remain authentic sets him apart in an industry often defined by trends.

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