Given how events in the past week have played out, with many Nigerians left exasperated, many musicians have continued to use their trade to keep the conversation going on the ongoing fight against police brutality and its aftermath, especially the #LekkiMassacre.

Music is not just a way to keep discussions flowing, it is also a way to preserve the details of how this generation rose to confront the ills of the society in one of the most organised manners seen in a Nigerian space.

Moving on from the recent gruesome events, many Nigerian youth and celebrity figures have called for strategy and decisive action going forward. While it would be impossible to forget the lives lost in the cause and the seeming insensitivity on the part of our leaders, the solution will not come from grumbling and lamentation.

This, without doubt, inspired the latest single from veteran singer, Bankole Wellington, also known as Banky W. He didn’t go alone on it; he invited 2Baba, Timi Dakolo, Waje, Seun Kuti, Brookstone and LCGC to help convey the burning issue on his mind.

This song was originally going to come with my album in 2021, but with everything going on in Nigeria and around the world, it feels so relevant for right now. Pls watch & share "Talk and Do" by Banky W x 2Baba x Timi Dakolo x Waje x Brookstone x LCGC https://t.co/I7ZYRkoTk4

— Banky Wellington (@BankyW) October 26, 2020

 

The song, entitled ‘Talk and do’, captures the emotional grief many Nigerians are supposed to feel considering the recent trail of death:

“Can’t you hear our children crying,

why doesn’t it break your heart,

can’t you see our people dying,

when did this world get so dark…”

 

But more importantly, Banky W recognises the importance of action over mere conversation:

“We all need to play a part

‘cause things will never change

always stay the same

until we do something about it

Talk and do

we need to just stop talking about it

we must talk and do…

2Baba also corroborates Banky’s point while Waje and Dakolo showcase their vocal power with their refrain.

Discussing everything that is wrong with the country is something everyone can do till eternity but ultimately, action matters and ‘Talk and do’ is a charge for youths especially to take matters into their hands – in the form of community work, politics etc.

Instead of lamenting and piling blame on the older generation, Banky W, who also hinted at having an album in 2021, calls for action and participation with his latest ‘Talk and do’ single and more of such conscious songs are needed as youths continue to strategise how to make the country a better place for everyone.

If you've been doing something…anything… to be part of the solution, then hopefully this is your soundtrack. If you haven't, then hopefully this is your inspiration. Banky W x 2Baba x @timidakolo x @OfficialWaje x @bigbirdkuti – #TalkAndDohttps://t.co/I7ZYRkoTk4#EndSARS

— Banky Wellington (@BankyW) October 27, 2020