Nigerian Visual and recording artist Sir Boyò (pronounced BOY-yo) has released his new track titled ‘I Know U Like It.’
The sassy dance track follows up on his major summer anthem, “OLORUN MAJE,” a flowy afrobeat record that has garnered over 100,000 views on YouTube. Accompanying the release of ‘I Know U Like It’ is a colorful music video that contrasts his last work. In this video, the singer writhes around in body paint, throws around whips and chains, and chants to the listeners, “I know you like it,” on the song’s boastful chorus.
According to Sir Boyò, he was inspired to write the song after attending his first pride event in New York, where he was immersed in themes of self-celebration and acceptance.
“This record was written when I moved to New York. A year before, I had attended world pride – which was my first pride event ever. I was inspired by the colorful and powerful message of self-love that was permeating through the city. I had been pursuing music for a while but had been unsure of how much of myself I was going to put out there. This experience gave me confidence so deep that I was able to write and project from a place that was not only fully self-aware but also bold.”
“With the visuals, I knew I wanted something dramatic, colorful but sexy. I loved the play on masculine and feminine that the wardrobe had, and I hope to be part of the conversation that removes gender norms, especially from clothing. I’ve started this by launching my eyewear brand called BOYO Eyewear, which features genderless premium acetate frames that are biodegradable, offer 100% UV protection, and are stylish. I plan to expand on this more as part of my collective.” he added.
Sir Boyò is hopeful for the LGBT+ community in Nigeria and the continent. He hopes that his art can contribute to the ongoing conversation.
“I hope they receive it in a way that shows them the reality of who I am. I’m no longer in a place that seeks to be accepted. I’m just here to showcase and hopefully educate. I also want the LGBT community on the continent to continue thriving. Thanks to the internet, I’ve been exposed to many LGBTQ people on the continent. For so long, representation only existed in America, and I’m glad to see new young faces making big moves. I’m very proud and inspired by what I’ve seen a lot of them accomplish.”
This is Boyò’s second release of 2021, and he has no plans to slow down anytime soon.
“I’m currently working on an EP which sonically is very based in my African roots as well as the queer communities I grew up in. I’m still working on the details, but with the team I’ve got so far, I know whatever we make is going to be one thing — fire.”
For more on Boyò, connect with him on Instagram and Facebook. You can also purchase BOYO Eyewear at https://www.boyocollective.com/
