In a thrilling new chapter for his career, celebrated Nigerian rap star CDQ has unveiled his latest single, “One Night,” featuring the South African vocal powerhouse Serenita. Marking his first solo release of 2024 and following up on his critically acclaimed album Mood and Ecstasy, “One Night” represents a groundbreaking moment for CDQ. For the first time ever, the award-winning artist delivers his rap verses entirely in English, stepping away from his signature Yoruba flows to explore new artistic territory. This bold shift not only underscores CDQ’s versatility and global ambition but also showcases his ability to blend diverse musical styles.

The single “One Night” offers a fresh sonic experience with a rich blend of indigenous afrobeats, contemporary R&B, and hip-hop elements. Featuring Serenita’s enchanting vocals, the track is defined by its lush acoustic guitars, rhythmic drum patterns, and memorable trumpet accents. CDQ‘s foray into English rap reveals a more romantic and introspective side, crafting a vivid narrative of fleeting love and intimacy. The song’s catchy hook and polished production promise to captivate audiences, cementing CDQ‘s status as a leading figure in the African rap scene and highlighting his ongoing evolution as an artist.

CDQ, “One Night” marks a significant shift as your first song entirely in English. What inspired this decision, and how did you approach writing and recording the lyrics in a different language?

Just trying to cut across all English speaking audiences, so that everybody can enjoy and feel the energy and vibe that CDQ can bring, not only in Yoruba but also in English.

The track features South African songstress Serenita. How did the collaboration come about, and what was it like working with her on this project?

I went on vacation to SA and while I was in SA, my guys invited me to the studio that night and I met Serenita. I think she was recording at that point. Her vocals were fire, we connected and vibed, and that’s how “One Night” came up.

In “One Night,” you explore a softer, more romantic side compared to your usual themes. What prompted you to delve into this genre and theme, and how did you ensure it aligned with your artistic vision?

Truly, “One Night” is very soft and sweet. It’s for sexy ladies all over the world. I just wanted to connect more with the ladies in a very soft way.

The production of “One Night” includes a blend of afrobeats, R&B, and hip-hop. Can you elaborate on your creative process in merging these styles, and what you aimed to achieve with this fusion?

Shout out to the Producer Lehandro Beatz. He made the magic. Lehandro is a South Africa Producer and you know SA has good ears for R&B and Hip-Hop.

How do you think “One Night” reflects your evolution as an artist, and in what ways does it differentiate from your previous work, especially considering your notable Yoruba flows?

So “One Night” is different from the regular CDQ type of sound and I’m trying to test different types of sounds now so that my fans can enjoy every part of my artistry.

Your debut single “Saula” and tracks like “Indomie” and “Nowo E Soke” have become anthems. How does “One Night” fit into the trajectory of your career, and what do you hope it achieves in terms of reception and impact?

I believe “One Night” will become a ladies anthem, and it will also achieve big reception, and impact the music space.

You’ve collaborated with various heavyweights in the industry. How does working with artists from different backgrounds and genres influence your music and creative process?

I like to work with different types of artists to connect with them, connect with their sound, their culture and also their style.

The video for “One Night” is out now. How did you envision the visual aspect of the song, and what were the key elements you wanted to convey through the video?

I wanted my fans to see the CDQ lover boy side of me, I wanted them to see CDQ as a perfect gentleman and not always the hard guy.

Given the global outlook of “One Night,” how do you see the song contributing to the international recognition of afrobeats and African rap?

I mean “One Night” can contribute a lot to the international recognition of African music, because, firstly it’s a Nigeria and South Africa collaboration.The song is also easy to connect with people all round the world, no matter your race or religion or creed.

Looking ahead, are there any new themes or musical directions you’re excited to explore in your upcoming projects? What can your fans expect next from you?

I’m on tour in the US in September. I also have an EP on the way, and maybe an album early next year, who knows. Thank you for your time!