“Living my life to the fullest/Living my life with no regrets,” boldly declares T.I BLAZE on the stimulating single “Lock Up”. The street-pop sub-genre of Afropop may be primarily known for its use of lacklustre lyricism in favour of flavourful, percussion-laden rhythm, but T.I Blaze is rewriting the code. Born Akintunde Abiodun Timileyin in Ogun State, Nigeria, BLAZE makes room for internal reflections with his music, calling to mind the intricate nature of the bustling city’s lifestyle and the longing for brighter days that come with it. In 2021, with the release of “Sometimes”, his relatable messaging would land him in the stratum of promising Gen Z acts to watch—but the song’s subsequent remix enlisting street pop’s most prominent figure, Olamide, would solidify his place as the genre’s newest pacesetter. While tracks like “Basic” employ a soulful and emotive pace harbouring the ideals of love, “Gbedu” makes a case for appreciating the journey towards success with illuminating log drums and an inauspicious bassline. T.I BLAZE symbolises and speaks to a generation with a lot to say—one that’s unafraid of exploration.