# Báwo ni

*Irie Afro Rhythms*

By [TORQ](https://paragraph.com/@torq) · 2025-03-28

afrobeat, reggae, dancehall, playlist, nigeria

---

BAWONI is a unique track born from a profound personal realization: although I speak multiple languages, I couldn’t fluently engage in any African dialect. The very word “Bawoni,” taught to me over several visits to a local barbershop, became the spark for a song that weaves together old Nigerian sayings with the challenges of modern life. In those conversations with barbers, I discovered a cultural richness I had barely scratched the surface of. Each time I learned a new phrase or slang, I felt closer to a heritage. That experience became the seed of inspiration for this Album, pushing me to explore themes of identity, heritage, and self-discovery.

![](https://storage.googleapis.com/papyrus_images/3c1b85263e2f9fa6acd2a9c678e5c643.png)

I wanted the lyricism to capture both the warmth of tradition and the weight of current struggles. By weaving references to classic Nigerian idioms into modern production techniques, the song became a tapestry of cross-generational voices. As the songwriting progressed, I aimed to present an honest portrayal of the internal conflict of feeling both connected and disconnected from an ancestral language. This paradox fueled lines about belonging, self-expression, and cultural responsibility. In the end, BAWONI stands as a testament to the power of language and music to help reclaim cultural ties. My hope is that it resonates with others who feel a similar pull toward reconnecting with their roots, whether African or otherwise.

[![](https://paragraph.xyz/editor/youtube/play.png)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVBwZmKrus0)

Ultimately, BAWONI is more than just a song; it’s a call to explore, celebrate, and rediscover the cultural nuances that shape us. By merging classic Nigerian sayings with contemporary sounds, I hope to inspire listeners to look into their own histories, share their stories, and find unity in diverse backgrounds. Whether it’s through streaming platforms, barbershop discussions, or diaspora networks, BAWONI’s message is one of connection, pride, and the ongoing quest to stay rooted while moving forward.

Follow for more on Spotify

[

Rave
----

Listen to Rave on Spotify · Album · Rue De Vivre · 2025 · 11 songs

https://spotify.com

![](https://storage.googleapis.com/papyrus_images/a31c45298930502793ff8558ddfa5f1a.jpg)

](https://open.spotify.com/album/245uu2SllJc2Va7oI0J4zl)

[Subscribe](https://paragraph.xyz/@torq/memberships)

---

*Originally published on [TORQ](https://paragraph.com/@torq/bawo-ni)*