Zinoleesky and Ms Banks Serve Street Romance and Cultural Flair on “Ayamase”

With the video rapidly climbing toward half a million views in just over a week, the track is quickly becoming a fan favorite, standing tall as one of the standout moments on Zinoleesky’s already critically acclaimed project.

Born Oniyide Azeez and raised in the heart of Agege, Lagos, Zinoleesky has carved a distinct lane for himself by fusing Nigerian street pop with trap, R&B, and afropiano elements. His breakthrough came through viral freestyle clips, which caught the attention of afrobeats heavyweights like Davido, Kizz Daniel, and Naira Marley. Since signing with Marlian Music in 2019, Zinoleesky has released a steady stream of genre-blurring hits, including “Kilofeshe” and “Gone Far”—earworms that cemented his place at the forefront of a new wave of afrobeats talent.

Now, with over one billion global streams to his name, Zinoleesky is becoming one of the defining voices of his generation. His latest offering, “Ayamase,” exemplifies his growth, both sonically and emotionally. Produced by Niphkeys (known for work with Stormzy, Rema, and Asake), the track blends UK melodic rap with Nigerian rhythms to create a song that’s as infectious as it is rich in narrative.

Lyrically, “Ayamase” explores love, desire, and emotional vulnerability through a culturally nuanced lens. Zinoleesky delivers a heartfelt, confessional performance, expressing longing and commitment to a lover, while Ms Banks offers a sharp, assertive counterpoint—reclaiming the narrative with a verse that’s full of agency and pride. The chemistry between the two artists is palpable, with tension simmering beneath every bar and beat.

The music video, directed by Mediakid (Tiwa Savage, Shallipopi) and creatively guided by Dir. Ley, was shot on the vibrant streets of Lagos. Stylized and cinematic, the visual features two crews, Zino’s boys and Ms Banks’ girls, locked in a silent face-off on a sun-drenched street corner. With nods to West African street culture, fashion, and identity, the video elevates the track’s core themes and amplifies its cultural impact.

The title “Ayamase” refers to a beloved Yoruba delicacy known for its complex and spicy flavour—a clever metaphor for romantic tension, heat, and emotional depth. The use of food as a symbolic device highlights the song’s grounding in everyday Nigerian culture, while also speaking to larger themes of power, mutual respect, and connection.

Ms Banks, who shares Nigerian heritage, brings her signature UK rap bravado to the track, helping to bridge the sonic gap between London and Lagos. Her return to afrobeats and R&B roots feels like a homecoming of sorts, adding both depth and international appeal to the single.

With co-signs from artists like Central Cee, Ayra Starr, and Omah Lay and accolades from outlets like Rolling Stone, Billboard, NME, and BBC 1Xtra, Zinoleesky’s trajectory shows no signs of slowing. “Ayamase” is more than a collaboration; it’s a celebration of cultural pride, sonic evolution, and the power of modern African artistry.