Monaky and Jeriq Spark Chemistry on the Hypnotic “7 Grams”
Rising Nigerian Afrobeats and pop singer Monaky, known for his distinctive deep baritone, Edo-accented delivery, and storytelling lyrics that evoke nostalgia for legends like Fela Kuti while echoing the swagger of Burna Boy, has teamed up with one of South-East’s finest rappers, Jeriq, to deliver a captivating new single titled “7 Grams”
Following the success of “Chandelier” and his 11-track studio album ‘Candor’—a project that explored the struggles, resilience, and daily realities of the average Nigerian—Monaky enlists an artist with a similarly weighty vocal texture to craft a record that amplifies their chemistry and highlights their individual artistry.
On the nearly three-minute track, Monaky sidesteps introspective storytelling or any consequential theme; instead, as the title “7 Grams” suggests, he paints a vivid picture of marijuana indulgence and its euphoric aftereffects over Yo X’s vibrant 808s, kick drums, and bouncy production. The song opens with the rhythm of Yo X’s instrumental, quickly followed by Monaky’s husky yet soothing vocals as he appraises the recreational drug through memorable metaphors that draw listeners in.
He unfolds the story by lamenting the rising cost of the drug and how inflation in Nigeria seems to deprive him of this small comfort. He goes further, narrating his willingness to go the extra mile to secure enough from his dealer, a sentiment that resonates with street-hop audiences. By the time Jeriq steps in with a more grounding verse, listeners are fully immersed in both the song’s groove and its narrative. For Jeriq, marijuana becomes an escape from harsh realities and inner demons. In his signature southeastern-accented delivery, he raps: “Gee, pass me the lighter, I dey put my demon for crusher, My daily medication na ganja.”
It’s an honest admission delivered in his gruff tone, one that reinforces his status as a street voice of reason. Meanwhile, Yo X’s bubbling production never relents, keeping the listener anchored in its head-bopping, neck-snapping rhythm.
While “7 Grams” is centered on the recreational drug that is marijuana, Monaky and Jeriq’s delivery offer listeners a glimpse into what escapism to them means. With rugged vocals and grounded stories, they find release in rhythm and smoke. In trading verses, Monaky and Jeriq share a moment suspended between grit and groove, crafting a record that feels both indulgent and effortlessly raw.
