The latest single by Afropop artist, Yemi Alade, titled ‘You Are’, is a powerful anthem that celebrates strength, resilience, and cultural heritage. According to a statement shared with Saturday Beats, the song draws inspiration from the superhero fantasy series ‘Iyanu’ and is accompanied by a lyric video created by Lion Forge Entertainment, featuring animations from the series.
Referred to as “Mama Africa,” Alade brings her vibrant vocals and cultural influences into ‘You Are’, weaving a tale of self-discovery and fate. Alade expressed, “Music has always been a potent medium for storytelling, and ‘You Are’ conveys our resilience and inherent power. It serves as an anthem for individuals embarking on a journey to greatness. It is a privilege to bring this to life for ‘Iyanu’, a series deeply rooted in Nigerian mythology. This is dedicated to every young dreamer embracing their destiny,” she added.
The track was produced by Grammy-nominated artist Michael Hodges and co-written by Hodges, Alade, Kayla Morrison, Gerald Trottman, and Ghian Wright. Hodges commended Alade’s performance, stating, “Her voice perfectly encapsulates the essence of this message. The energy and emotion she brings define the song.”
The collaboration holds special significance for ‘Iyanu’ creator, executive producer, and showrunner Roye Okupe. Okupe expressed, “As a Nigerian storyteller, witnessing the realization of ‘Iyanu’ has been a dream come true. Yemi Alade’s ‘You Are’ beautifully captures the spirit of the show—strength, resilience, and the enchantment of our heritage. This song will inspire audiences just as much as Iyanu’s journey.”