The
singer’s 4th solo studio album is set for release, and of all the
promotional elements designed to project the music, the album artwork
stands out as a gem. Created by Nduka Abii, popularly known as Duks Arts, the project draws inspiration from the HBO hit TV series “Game Of Thrones.”
The
show is in its penultimate season, after it has become arguably the
most popular and successful TV series. D’banj’s artwork was drawn from
it.
The story of the album art began on
Twitter. Duks Art who uses the social media platform as a tool for his
business was followed by D’banj on a random day, and that connection set
the pace for the collaboration.
D'banj followed me on Twitter and I couldn't believe it. Had to check my shit several times to see if it wasn't a fake account.” Duks tell Pulse via email.
“I
met him in a club a year ago. It was so crazy because I was
intoxicated, and I thought I was just hallucinating. At 4am, I saw a
familiar silhouette seated, discussing business with another man. I was
blown away. It was him! BANGA LEE! I walked up and introduced myself. I
was so shocked when he told me that he knew my brand, with a smile on
his face. He took my number.”
Duke
was honored by the meeting and Twitter connection. He has been a fan of
D’banj from the beginning, listening to all of his music from the
Mo’Hits era, down to his solo run in the industry. He still feels
connected to D’banj today, more than ever.
“This
man made my younger years more enjoyable. His music elevated my
creativity, and made me a happier boy, proud to call Nigeria my home.” Duks says. “In
my opinion, he is the greatest Nigerian entertainer (of my time) to
have ever walked among us, and I feel so privileged that he chose me for
this project.”
“King Don Come”
album art employs elements from “Game Of Thrones” in its execution. The
album art which was shared by the singer via social media showed the
Nigerian superstar depicted as a medieval king. D’banj is sitting on a
throne placed against the backdrop of a raging battle. He is dressed in
kingly robes and jewelry, with animal fur draping his shoulder, and his
famous DB gold chain on his neck.
There are dragons all around. A baby
fire-breather is perched on his arm, two giant creatures loom behind his
throne, and another is flying in the sky. His DB banner is all that
stands on the battle field, connoting a hard-fought victory that is
straight from a legendary story book.
“I went full throttle on this project.” An excited Duks says. “I
went with an archaic Age of Empires theme, and I didn't give a f…; I
let the dragons loose haha. I'm not a huge fan the 'Game of Thrones'
saga, and I don't know any of the characters by name, but I've always
loved the visual direction. I was inspired by it.”
Public
reactions so far to the creative direction has been positive. Fans have
also put a spin on the art, interpreting parts of it as veiled insults
or ‘shots’ at other artists. But negativity was not a part of the plan.
It simply came from a place where two arts meet and overlap: sound and
visual.
“I won't give an artist's statement on the painting. I'm open to the audience to interpret it how they will. Also, there is no form if shade directed at anyone.” Duks reveals.
“The
results are always impeccable when clients give me full creative
freedom, and enough time to get the job done. D'banj told me to paint
what I felt it should look like, and I decided to murder. I was also
given about a week or two to deliver. He was very patient with me.”
And how did D’banj receive it?
The
singer shared it on social media, with the album release date, and he
has been measured about public reactions. But Duks reveal that D’banj
loved it. And that’s why he chose this particular creative to market and
sell his new major project.
“He
absolutely loved it. He always replies "BAD BOI" every time I come with
the dopenes. He told me he had a couple of designs done, but he scrapped
them and picked mine. I'm so grateful.” Duks says.
Duks
Arts who is also a video director and editor has also shot music videos
for some popular musicians. He has currently leads the creative team of
numerous artists, including projects for Olamide, Lynxxxx, Awon Boyz, Nonso Amadi, and Odunsi (The Engine).
“All
these talents mentioned give me complete creative control when I work,
and their fans are always happy when they can see hear dope music and
look at cool (relatable) art at the same time,” He says.
culled from pulseng.
0 Comments