“Paparazzi” is a standout Afrobeats single from Nigerian artists Shoday and FOLA, released at the beginning of 2026. The track marked an exciting start to the year for both artists, serving as a lead single ahead of Shoday’s project “HYBRID,” and has quickly become one of the most streamed and talked‑about songs in Nigeria’s music scene. 0
Background & Release
“Paparazzi” dropped on January 2, 2026, announcing Shoday’s first major single of the year alongside FOLA. They teased snippets on social media that generated considerable buzz before the official release, showing strong audience anticipation for new music from both artists.
The track blends playful Afrobeats rhythms with smooth vocal exchanges between Shoday and FOLA, creating a vibe that’s both danceable and relatable. They trade lines throughout the song, celebrating personal success, confidence, and attraction with a swagger that has resonated with fans across platforms.
Sound & Production
“Paparazzi” leans on lively percussion and melodic hooks that make it ideal for streaming playlists and party rotations. The song’s production strikes a balance between contemporary Afropop energy and a laid‑back groove that fits both upbeat and relaxed listening moments. The chemistry between the artists shines through, as both contribute vocals that complement each other musically.
Reception & Chart Performance
Shortly after release, “Paparazzi” quickly climbed Nigerian music charts. It has reached the number one spot on the Official Nigeria Top 100 chart, making it Shoday and FOLA’s first chart‑topping single in the country.
In its first week alone, the song recorded significant streaming numbers and strong radio play, indicating widespread listener engagement. Reaching the top of the chart early in the year demonstrates the track’s commercial pull and staying power.
Why It’s Trending
“Paparazzi” is trending for several key reasons:
- Energetic Collaboration: The pairing of Shoday and FOLA brings together two rising Afrobeats talents, each with growing fanbases eager for new music.
- Blend of Styles: The song merges smooth melodies with rhythmic Afrobeats percussion, appealing to both dance‑focused and chill playlists.
- Social Buzz: Early snippets inspired fan content on TikTok and Instagram, helping spread its popularity quickly ahead of and after release.
- Chart Impact: Rapid ascent on streaming charts confirms strong audience reception and replay value.
Artist Chemistry & Appeal
Shoday and FOLA’s collaboration feels natural and dynamic. Shoday’s expressive delivery pairs well with FOLA’s smooth vocal texture, giving the song both emotional depth and broad appeal. Their back‑and‑forth interplay keeps listeners engaged from start to finish, a quality that fans have highlighted across social platforms since its release.
Listen & Watch
You can stream “Paparazzi” on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Audiomack. Its official music video has also attracted attention on video platforms, enhancing the song’s visibility internationally.
Watch the official video here:
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