Over four decades after its original release, Bright Chimezie’s highlife classic ‘Because of English’ has resurfaced in mainstream conversation, debuting at No. 99 on the Spotify Nigeria Viral Chart.
The renewed interest in the 1984 hit was sparked by Nigerian megastar Davido, who revealed that the song served as one of the reference tracks for ‘With You’, his collaboration with Omah Lay off the recently released fifth studio album 5ive.
Produced by Tempoe, ‘With You’ blends the melodic elements of Highlife and Funk genres that thrived in Nigeria in the 1970s and 80s and were popularised by artists like Bright Chimezie. The track has become a fan favourite, and its homage to Chimezie’s sound has reignited appreciation for the original.
Chimezie, a pioneer of the Zigima sound, responded warmly to the recognition, expressing gratitude to Davido for drawing inspiration from his music. In a show of respect, Davido recently hosted the music veteran at his Lagos residence, where friends and associates gathered to celebrate the moment. A viral clip from the occasion showed Davido video-calling his uncle, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, and his wife to speak with Chimezie.
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The resurgence of ‘Because of English’ is part of a growing trend in which contemporary Nigerian artists revisit and reimagine classics from the country’s musical archives.
In 2024 alone, several other songs have seen renewed attention or influence. Grammy-winning artist Tems sampled Seyi Sodimu’s 1997 hit ‘Love Me Jeje’ on a song of the same title. Similarly, Asake interpolated Jazzman Olofin and Adewale Ayuba’s ‘Raise the Roof’ on his Sarz-produced track ‘Active’, featuring American rapper Travis Scott.
Meanwhile, ‘Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo’, a classic by Highlife icon Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, went viral after it was featured in a comedy skit by social media personality Brain Jotter.
As more Nigerian stars continue to honour the country’s musical heritage, ‘Because of English’ becomes the latest evergreen tune to find new life among today’s audiences—bridging generations through rhythm, memory, and culture.
