Maleek Berry is absolutely killing it on the Afrobeats scene.
After signing to Wizkids record label in 2013, the south Londoner has won over hearts and earned loyal fans with hit singles such as Kontrol, Juice and Gimme Life, and an all-round positive vibe.
However, fans might be hearing a slightly different sound from Maleek in the future if his dreams come true.
The 31-year-old has revealed he would love to collaborate with country-turned-pop superstar, Taylor Swift, giving his trademark Afrobeats an interesting edge.
Maleek revealed his unexpected choice of duet to Metro.co.uk at the launch of a partnership between Jay Zs streaming service Tidal and football team Arsenal.
The Love U Long Time singer said: Theres so many to choose from…
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Ive been saying Id love to work with Taylor Swift. I think shes amazing. Shes an amazing songwriter and has amazing melodies.
I feel like I could go into country music, take some sauce bring it back to Afrobeats and mix it. Thats how Im thinking.
Hows that for a curveball?
In the last few years, the popularity of Afrobeats has propelled to unprecedented heights and artists like Wizkid and Tiwa Savage, have collaborated with top talent including Drake or signed to labels such as Roc Nation; while other well-known musicians have embraced the sound on their own songs, notably French Montanas Unforgettable.
Its a noticeable change to a previous time when it wasnt cool to like traditional African music.
Addressing the sudden success of Afrobeats in pop culture, Maleek said: Its a blessing and I dont take it for granted.
Im always thinking about the bigger picture, the part I want to play in the culture and how I want to leave the game for the younger generation. Its a lot of responsibility but good pressure.
Im trying to fly the flag but the thing is, my music is not just Afropop. Its a hybrid of things and can spread a lot further for ears that arent usually tuned to Afrobeats.
Maleeks music is refreshingly feel-good but also sends an impactful message without words.
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The music video for one of Maleeks latest singles, Gimme Life, features women of different skin tones. At a time when some black male artists have been criticised for the lack of diversity in their videos, its no doubt a welcome change.
Speaking on the inclusivity in his videos, Maleek said: I was just raised to love everyone and show everybody respect no matter where youre from or what your background is.
But at the same time I do understand the responsibility, were making sure everybodys looked after. I just try and be as artistic as possible in the process but at the same time, Im woke. I like to pay attention to the comments and see what people are saying, give people what they want and create a nice balance.
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Its all part of Maleeks brand of being positive and putting out good vibes for fans.
The singer admitted: Im just a serial optimist, I always see the good things in people. I know how to find the good in a lot of different situations.
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Maleek Berry performed an intimate show at Village Underground hosted by TIDAL and Arsenal. For more on the partnership visit: http://www.TIDAL.com/Arsenal.
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