Daprinze 77 Mopol – IKA KOLOUR

The first word looks like a nod to Ika, a name tied to a part of Delta State and to its people. Anybody from that area knows the pride that comes with it, the way people from a hometown carry it into every room, whether in Lagos, Abuja or abroad. A hometown name in a title works like a flag, and it tells listeners where the speaker stands before any line is sung.

The second word is spelt the way many Nigerians say it, with the K and the extra O, which gives the whole title a street feel. Colour in everyday talk means style, attitude and flavour. When someone says a person has colour, they mean he stands out, dresses well and carries himself with confidence. Put together, the title reads like a boast about home and about the flavour that comes with it.

I will not pretend to describe production details or lyrics I cannot confirm, but a title like this suggests a record of pride and swagger, probably made for loud speakers and group singing. The stage name is also interesting. Mopol is the short form many Nigerians use for mobile police, so pairing it with Daprinze 77 gives the artist a bold, playful image before a note is heard.

Naming the whole project the same way tells you the idea sits at the centre of the release, like a brand. By the time a friend asks if you have played IKA KOLOUR, someone at the table will already be representing their own hometown.

Anyone who is proud of where they come from, or loves a bit of bragging about home, will see themselves in the idea. It suits weekend outings, December visits to the village and any evening when the crowd is ready to represent.

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