LAGOS, NIGERIA — Nigerian afrobeats sensation Daniel Anidugbe, better known by his stage name Kizz Daniel, has stirred major excitement in the music world with the release of his new single “Police.” The track features legendary Beninese vocalist and five-time Grammy Award winner Angelique Kidjo, along with Nigerian singer-songwriter Johnny Drille, creating a pan-African collaboration that’s already generating Grammy conversations.
Police fuses afrobeats, soul, and highlife influences, offering a refreshing blend of rhythms and vocals that has quickly earned praise from both fans and industry insiders. Co-produced by Ghana’s MOG Beatz, Blaise Beatz, and Johnny Drille, the song’s sonic craftsmanship is matched by its star-studded vocal lineup and playful lyrical content.
A Powerhouse Collaboration with Global Appeal
The appearance of Angelique Kidjo — one of the most decorated African artists in Grammy history — has heightened expectations for Police. Known for her boundary-pushing artistry and influence across genres, Kidjo brings gravitas and international appeal to the track. Her contribution alone has led many fans and critics to predict that Police could be Kizz Daniel’s breakout Grammy moment.
“Angelique’s presence immediately elevates the track. She’s a Grammy magnet,” said one music critic on social media.
Kidjo currently shares the title of Africa’s most Grammy-awarded artist with South Africa’s Ladysmith Black Mambazo, each boasting five golden gramophones. A nomination for Police would mark her 17th Grammy nod, reinforcing her reign as a global music icon.
For Kizz Daniel and Johnny Drille, a Grammy nomination would be a career first — and a historic milestone for both artists, especially within Nigeria’s rapidly expanding global music scene.
The Sound and Story Behind ‘Police’
At its core, Police is a romantic yet humorous exploration of love, chemistry, and timing. The lyrics tell the tale of a man so captivated by his lover’s allure that he jokingly threatens to call the authorities, unable to handle her charm any longer. It’s a playful twist on the typical love song, and its cheeky nature has made it instantly memorable.
“It’s about a couple with conflicting schedules,” Kizz Daniel shared in a behind-the-scenes feature. “She’s always out when he’s in, and he starts to suspect she’s too fine to be left alone — so he calls the ‘Police’ on her beauty.”
The track’s composition is another standout. Johnny Drille’s signature smooth vocals offer a soulful counterbalance to Kizz Daniel’s afropop delivery, while Angelique Kidjo’s earthy harmonies weave through the production with a timeless quality.
Musically, the beat combines highlife guitar riffs with soft percussion and synth undertones, creating a fusion that feels fresh, nostalgic, and globally palatable. The song’s arrangement and crisp production have drawn comparisons to Grammy-nominated works in the Best African Music Performance category — a recently introduced field that celebrates diverse African musical expressions.
Grammy Watch: Is This the One?
For years, fans and critics alike have viewed Kizz Daniel as one of Nigeria’s most talented yet underrated exports. With chart-toppers like Buga, Woju, and Laye, the singer has built a solid fanbase and reputation for hit-making consistency.
But Police may be his best shot yet at breaking into the Recording Academy’s spotlight.
“This is the moment we’ve been waiting for. Kizz Daniel has always had Grammy-worthy talent. Now, with Angelique on the track and Johnny Drille’s artistry, the stars have aligned,” a fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
The song’s Pan-African appeal, genre-defying sound, and strategic timing — well ahead of the 67th Grammy eligibility cutoff — all bolster its chances.
Should it receive a nomination, Police would mark the first time Kizz Daniel or Johnny Drille has earned a nod from the prestigious awards body. It would also be a significant moment for Nigerian pop music, further solidifying its global status.
Johnny Drille’s Soulful Evolution
Johnny Drille, signed to Mavin Records, is known for his alternative and folk-leaning sound — a style that contrasts with mainstream afrobeats but has found a dedicated fanbase. His involvement in Police signals a growing trend of genre crossovers in the African music scene.
Not only did Drille lend his voice to the record, but he also co-produced the track, helping shape its unique sonic identity.
“This collaboration showcases the magic that happens when artists step outside their comfort zones,” said Nigerian music blogger Tonye Eze.
Drille’s involvement also introduces him to a wider audience, potentially opening doors for more experimental sounds within afrobeats — and creating opportunities for other non-mainstream artists in the genre.
Kizz Daniel’s Continued Dominance
For Kizz Daniel, Police is another step in what has been a consistent rise to the top. Known for his clever songwriting and hit-making instincts, the artist continues to push creative boundaries while remaining true to his Nigerian roots.
Since launching his career with the breakout hit Woju in 2014, Kizz Daniel has evolved into one of Africa’s most versatile and bankable music stars. His previous album, Maverick, received critical acclaim, and he’s currently one of the most streamed Nigerian artists globally.
With Police, he proves once again that he’s not afraid to take risks — and that those risks are paying off.
Final Thoughts
Police is more than just a song — it’s a cultural moment. By bringing together three distinct African musical forces in Kizz Daniel, Angelique Kidjo, and Johnny Drille, the track sets a new standard for collaborative excellence on the continent.
With Grammy whispers growing louder, it could very well become the track that elevates Kizz Daniel from Nigerian superstar to global Grammy nominee. Whether or not Police brings home the gold, its bold creativity and infectious spirit have already made it one of the most talked-about African releases of the year.
