The Afro-R&B scene just got a massive upgrade. Lagos-based singer-songwriter Folarin “FOLA” Odunlami has dropped his new single, “treat u right” featuring Ayra Starr. Released via Dangbana Republik and EMPIRE, the track is a smooth masterclass in modern African pop, blending R&B textures with low-key Afrobeats rhythms.

If you’ve been tracking the rise of Afro-R&B over the last few years, this collaboration represents a major moment for Nigeria’s music scene.

The Sound of “treat u right”

Produced by Shallythechampion and mixed by Mike Seaberg and Johnny Drille, “treat u right” showcases FOLA’s evolution from an exciting newcomer into a commanding voice.

The song locks into a mid-tempo groove driven by deep bass lines and soft percussion that lets the vocals breathe. The lyrics glide between romantic devotion and setting boundaries. FOLA’s smooth delivery grounds the track before Ayra Starr slips in with her signature confident, melodic flow, creating a back-and-forth dynamic that makes you want to hit repeat.

FOLA’s Rise in the Afro-R&B Scene

Folarin “FOLA” Odunlami has been quietly building an unshakeable reputation. He first captured attention following early collaborations with label-head Bella Shmurda, paving the way for his 2024 debut EP, what a feeling.

Since then, FOLA has notched up a string of charting singles and high-profile alliances—sharing tracklists with the likes of Wizkid, DJ Tunez, and Zlatan. What sets FOLA apart is his ability to respect the raw roots of original Lagos street-pop while updating it with smooth, international R&B sensibilities. It feels incredibly fresh yet deeply grounded.

Why This Release Matters

“treat u right” arrives with major momentum for both artists, serving as an ideal entry point for anyone eager to hear where global African sounds are headed next. By stripping back loud production in favor of raw rhythm and vocal chemistry, FOLA proves his pen game and sonic vision are built for the world stage.