“Shawa Shawa” is an uplifting afropop anthem infused with touches of calypso and highlife, delivering a warm, dance-ready glow. Beneath its vibrant surface, Yemi Alade subtly challenges the narratives surrounding the so-called “oldest profession,” grounding the conversation in the lived experiences found across many African cities.
The track also serves as the first major signal of what’s to come from her 2026 album and global tour, closing out a standout year that included her first solo GRAMMY nomination, prominent Forbes Africa and OkayAfrica cover features, and the successful debut of her Yem Beauty cosmetics brand