BNXN’s sophomore album, Bad Since ’97 (2022), serves as both a declaration of his arrival and a vulnerable exploration of life, fame, and toxic relationships.
The seven-track project beautifully fuses Afrobeats, R&B, and elements of Afropop, relying heavily on BNXN’s unique vocal texture and his acclaimed talent for writing irresistible hooks. Songs like the title track and “Bad Man Wicked” are pure self-assertion, with BNXN boldly claiming his place in the industry.
However, the album achieves its depth with tracks like “In My Mind,” where he reflects on heartbreak and a toxic relationship, and the Olamide-featured “Modupe”, which serves as a moment of sincere gratitude for his success. The project is elevated by high-profile features from Afrobeats heavyweights Wizkid (“Many Ways”), Wande Coal (“Kenkele”), and Olamide.
