On ‘Hypnotic’, Lifesize Teddy’s confidence sparkles and levitates with a self-assuredness that feels completely deserved. The Nigerian vocalist, poet and rapper, born Banigo Apiafi Treasure, introduced final week (August 9) that she has signed with Mavin Data – a label that has uplifted a few of Afrobeat’s main names, from Ayra Starr to the Billboard-charting Rema. “It’s been a protracted, insane however rewarding journey,” the 21-year-old shared in an Instagram submit. “The prophecy is right here now.”

Having spent her teenage years honing a rap model with flippantly experimental qualities – spontaneous yelps and a steely supply; occasional vocal coos à la Tierra Whack – Teddy was initially introduced into the Mavin Data fold in 2020, the place she undertook a 3 year-long artist improvement course. After coaching extensively in songwriting and choreography, ‘Hypnotic’ serves because the lead single from her recently-released eponymous EP, 5 tracks of frisky membership beats and unbridled power.

‘Hypnotic’ stays centered on its mission: to outline Teddy’s sexual freedom by way of smoky vocal tips and a thrust of bass. She frames her need by way of a distinctly feminine gaze, underlying the ecstatic freedom of dancing by way of the observe’s chorus: “Catch that vibe ’til the top of time”, she sings by way of a pitch-shifted vocal flourish. Crucially, every part glows with the sensation that Teddy has reached the purpose the place she will lastly personal her huge expertise.

As she glides between sung and rap verses, it’s clear that Teddy feels relaxed in each of these areas on ‘Hypnotic’. The observe concurrently works as an early, fiery assertion of intent, and a testing floor for the way to preserve mixing these types as she strikes onto the worldwide stage.

For followers of: Amaarae, Ayra Starr
The place to see them: Stay dates TBA