Adekunle Gold loves a good victory lap.

Just six months away from the release of his well-received fifth album, Tequila Ever After, the Nigerian singer has dropped his first single of the year, “The Life I Chose.” Produced by acclaimed soundman Kel-P, the new single is a triumphant declaration of AG Baby’s pseudo-rockstar status.

Years removed from the reverent, buzz cut, afro-wearing personality of his earlier career, the transformation of Adekunle Gold into a glitzy pop superstar is acclaimed as one of the greatest pivots in Afrobeats. While all of it has been intentional and stunningly executed from his side, there are still mutters from those who want the old Adekunle Gold back, even if it’s in glimpses. “The Life I Chose” is a plain rejoinder that his decisions have only yielded great results.

“Shout-out to me, I stay believing/Everyday is a pay day,” he boasts over Kel-P’s droning synths and groovy percussion pattern. This new single is in the same vein as 2022’s “5 Star,” a celebratory song released months after AG’s fourth album, Catch Me If You Can.

Over the past five years, Adekunle Gold has embraced being prolific and it has resulted in the success of his popstar ambitions. “The Life I Chose” emboldens conviction as an important part of his artistry.

Listen to “The Life I Chose” here.