Rahbeatz unleashes creativity behind ‘New Testament’ album

By Odion E. Okonofua

Kenny Blaize, one of Nigeria’s most promising rap voices, teams up with Oluwacoded, a
singer renowned for his soulful vocals, to deliver “Settings,” a standout track from Kenny’s
much-anticipated 2024 album, New Testament.

With production and co-writing credits from the ever-talented Ibrahim Adekolu known as Rahbeatz, the song speaks to the hustle, resilience, and unshakeable belief in one’s dreams. It’s more than just music—it’s a motivational anthem crafted with precision and passion.

“Settings” begins with a voice skit by Rahbeatz, immediately drawing you into a reflective
mood. It feels almost personal, like an invitation into the creative process behind the track. From this intro, the beat transitions into a soft piano melody, accompanied by a steady kick drum. Rahbeatz’s production is simple yet deliberate, creating a clean canvas for the lyrics and vocals to shine. This stripped-down approach reinforces the song’s core message: no distractions, just focus on the grind.

Kenny Blaize wastes no time making his presence felt. His opening verse is fiery and raw,
painting vivid pictures of his journey through life’s challenges. With lines that capture his
determination and refusal to make a “U-turn” despite setbacks, Blaize delivers his bars
with a smooth but commanding flow. His words carry weight as if he’s speaking directly to
anyone who’s ever doubted themselves.

Then comes Oluwacoded with the hook—a soulful, heart-tugging refrain that balances
Blaize’s grit with emotional depth. When he sings, “I was not like this, so the pain changed
me,” you feel it in your chest. His voice, filled with vulnerability and strength, bridges
Blaize’s personal grind with a universal truth: struggle shapes us. Oluwacoded’s melodic
delivery ensures the song resonates far beyond the hip-hop space, appealing to anyone
who’s been through life’s fire and come out stronger.

Rahbeatz’s fingerprints are all over this track, in the best way possible. His minimalist
production allows the vocals to take center stage while subtly amplifying the song’s
emotional depth. The piano riffs, understated beats, and layered vocals reflect his mastery
in creating soundscapes that speak to the soul. And as a co-writer, his touch is evident in
the song’s cohesive storytelling. Lines like “I was not like this, so the pain changed me”
showcase Rahbeatz’s ability to craft lyrics that feel deeply personal yet relatable to
everyone.

Rahbeatz’s production isn’t just a backdrop; it amplifies the song’s emotional core. The
subtle interplay between the piano and the kick drum mirrors the grind and calm
determination described in the lyrics. Rahbeats ensures the song has a clean mix and non-
distortive mastering. The producer’s decision to avoid heavy bass or aggressive beats aligns perfectly with the reflective tone of the track, highlighting his sensitivity to the song’s
message. However, some might argue that the instrumental remains too subdued,
especially given the powerful performances by Kenny Blaize and Oluwacoded. Adding
textures such as a rising synth or vocal harmonies during the final hook could have
provided a more cathartic climax. Also, While the songwriting effectively captures the hustle narrative, it occasionally feels predictable. Rahbeatz could have infused the lyrics with more vivid imagery or nuanced metaphors to elevate the storytelling. For example, expanding on the “No U-turn” concept with more specific life scenarios might have deepened the impact.

The collaboration between these three artists is nothing short of magical. Kenny Blaize
brings the raw energy, Oluwacoded adds the emotional richness, and Rahbeatz ties it all
together with his thoughtful production and songwriting. However, while the song’s
simplicity is part of its charm, a bit more dynamism in the production—perhaps a
crescendo or additional harmonies—could have taken the track to even greater heights. A
slightly bolder finish would have elevated the emotional climax without compromising its
authenticity.

Ultimately, Rahbeatz’s involvement solidifies “Settings” as a powerful motivational
anthem. His role as a producer and co-writer ensures the track is not just a song but a
statement of resilience and ambition, making it a standout piece on Kenny Blaize’s New
Testament album. exemplifying the combined talents of Kenny Blaize, Oluwacoded, and
Rahbeatz. Its message of perseverance and growth is delivered with sincerity, artistry, and
a distinct authenticity that sets it apart. “Settings” is undeniably impactful. It’s not just a
song; it’s a testimony to the power of persistence and growth. It reminds you that
greatness isn’t achieved overnight but through unwavering belief in yourself and your
dreams. With this track, Kenny Blaize cements his status as a rising force in Nigerian
music, and with Oluwacoded and Rahbeatz by his side, the future looks bright.

If you’re looking for a song to inspire and energize your hustle, “Settings” is your go-to jam.
It’s proof that when talented minds come together with a shared vision, the result is
nothing short of extraordinary.