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The anticipation surrounding Wizkid’s forthcoming album Morayo is palpable. Set to drop on November 22, the project comes with emotional weight as the singer dedicates it to his late mother, Jane Morayo Balogun.
The revelation, made in Wizkid’s signature understated style, has only heightened the stakes for what fans are expecting to be a deeply personal offering.
But even before her death in August 2023, Wizkid’s music often nodded to his mother, crafting in silent tributes within his lyrics a testament to an unbroken bond.
Throughout his illustrious career, these moments of homage have been about showcasing gratitude as reaffirming the role a mother plays, which can never be taken up by another person in shaping life and legacy.
This is a recurring thread within the novel, underlining the depth of their relationship and strengthening his storytelling as one steeped in vulnerability and familial love.
Here’s a look at the songs where Wizkid has poignantly celebrated his mother’s presence in his life, moments that now carry even greater resonance in light of his latest chapter.
Mummy Mi
If there’s any song that captures Wizkid’s unfiltered gratitude for his mother, it’s “Mummy Mi.” Here, he dedicates himself to her completely, pledging to always be by her side.
His tender lyrics—“I’ll be there for you / I will love you forever”—offer a glimpse into how central she is to his life, while the melodic repetitions of “Mummy mi o” ring out like a child’s heartfelt mantra of love. With this track, Wizkid not only thanks her for her sacrifices but also promises to honour her endlessly.
Pakurumo
In the vibrant, Fuji-inspired “Pakurumo,” Wizkid tips his hat to his mother in a playful yet meaningful way.
As the song crescendos towards its celebratory finish, he hails “Mrs. J.M. Balogun” among a lineup of dignitaries, solidifying her role as one of the foundational figures in his life. It’s a subtle yet powerful nod, woven seamlessly into a track meant to evoke joy and unity.
Joy
The reggae-tinged “Joy” stands as one of Wizkid’s most poignant odes to his mother. He sings about her unyielding efforts in shaping him into the man he is today, describing her as the epitome of blessings and love.
Lines like “Joy, nothing but joy / Every other day she feels nothing but joy” reflect his mother’s contentment in seeing her son thrive, while the track brims with a sense of gratitude and fulfilment.
Jaiye Jaiye
On “Jaiye Jaiye,” a quintessential Afrobeat track featuring Femi Kuti, Wizkid speaks to his dreams of ensuring his parents’ comfort—a gesture that underscores his commitment to giving back.
In the line “Mo fe kole fun mama mi / Mo fe rale fun baba mi,” he expresses a yearning to build a house for his mother, a poignant reflection of his desire to repay her for her sacrifices.
Ojuelegba
A love letter to his roots, “Ojuelegba” wouldn’t be complete without a shout-out to Wizkid’s mother. The track highlights her unwavering prayers that have carried him through life’s challenges.
His heartfelt lines—“E kira fun mummy mi o / Ojojumo lo n s’adura”—pay tribute to her spiritual backbone, emphasizing the pivotal role her support played in his success. It’s a touching moment in a song that celebrates resilience and faith.
