Alex Iwobi, a midfielder for the Super Eagles and Fulham FC, has formally released More to Life, his first musical endeavor under the stage name 17. In an effort to define Iwobi's personality outside of the football field, the 9-track EP is a very personal endeavor. The project's title expresses his wish to be recognized as a multifaceted artist who uses music to explore topics of family, celebrity, and the demands of professional sports.
Fido, Giddi, SPKS, and even fellow football player Amadou Onana (who plays as
24AM) are among the astounding list of collaborators on the EP.
Notable songs like Joga Bonito and Track
0 (Freestyle) combine UK rap influences with soothing Afrobeats to create a
sound that reflects Iwobi's dual heritage as a Nigerian reared in London.
The production, which chooses a relaxed, Afrowave approach that complements Iwobi's conversational singing style, is surprisingly professional for a debut.
'More to Life' has reflective lyrics. Iwobi talks about the value of loyalty and
the mental health difficulties of being a public figure in songs like Letter
and Double Double. He is able to reclaim his story by using the project as a
creative outlet for the criticism and rejection he has encountered during his
sports career. It's an honest, if occasionally unrefined, look at the man
wearing the jersey.
Although music experts have pointed out that the group is still developing its distinctive sound, fans' initial reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, commending the courage needed to enter a new field. Iwobi's More to Life is an important cultural moment that supports the increasing trend of professional athletes pursuing their artistic interests. There is, in fact, "more to life" than the ninety minutes spent on the field, as this EP on growth demonstrates.
Stream and listen to “More To Life” here.
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