A Return to Foundational Sounds

Global Afrobeats and reggae-dancehall artist Patoranking has released his latest single, "No Jonze," marking a deliberate return to his musical origins. Released in mid-October 2025 via Amari Musiq, the track is the first offering from his anticipated fifth studio album. Produced by DeeYasso, the song is a high-energy fusion of 1990s Galala rhythms and contemporary Afro-dancehall sensibilities. The title, "No Jonze," is derived from Lagos street slang, serving as a motivational call to stay focused and seize opportunities without hesitation.

The Galala Connection

At the heart of "No Jonze" is Galala, a percussive, dance-driven music genre that emerged from the Ajegunle suburb of Lagos, Nigeria. Patoranking, who grew up immersed in this culture, has often described Galala as the "stepchild of dancehall" and a significant influence on his artistic identity. The genre, characterized by its raw energy and Pidgin English lyrics, served as a form of expression and resistance for marginalized communities in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The new single pays homage to this lineage, aiming to reframe its energy for a modern, global audience.

The accompanying music video, directed by the acclaimed Director K, was filmed in Ajegunle, reinforcing the song's theme of returning to one's roots. The video features cameo appearances by Galala pioneers such as Marvelous Benjy and Allen B, and includes a street mural honoring other key figures of the genre like Daddy Showkey, Baba Fryo, and African China, further cementing the track's tribute to its origins.

East African Resonance and Global Context

While deeply rooted in Nigerian street culture, Patoranking's latest work carries a resonance that extends across the continent, including to East Africa. The artist himself has highlighted the shared DNA between Lagos's street rhythms and other genres like Kenya's Gengetone and Uganda's Kidandali. This musical connection underscores a broader conversation about the diversity and evolution of African music, challenging the perception of a monolithic Afrobeats sound.

Patoranking has a well-established connection with his Kenyan fanbase, having previously collaborated with Sauti Sol on the hit song "Melanin" and expressing his affinity for the country, which he considers a second home. His frequent visits and collaborations within the region have solidified his popularity among East African audiences. The release of "No Jonze" has been met with widespread acclaim, with fans praising its nostalgic yet fresh sound and its celebration of hustle and perseverance.

A New Chapter for Patoranking

Born Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, Patoranking rose to prominence with hits like "Alubarika" and "Girlie O". His career has been characterized by a successful blend of reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeats, earning him a global following with over two billion streams worldwide. "No Jonze" signals a new chapter for the artist, one that revisits the foundational sounds that shaped him while continuing to engage in a global musical dialogue. The forthcoming album is expected to further explore the intersection of local subcultures and international music trends. Through this project, Patoranking aims to present a more diverse narrative of African music, showcasing the continent's rich tapestry of stories, styles, and sub-cultures.