Grammy-nominated rapper Wale doesn’t just drop visuals — he makes statements. And his latest music video for “YSF,” featuring Nigerian superstars Teni and Seyi Vibez, is exactly that: a rich, textured, and deeply personal tribute to Nigerian heritage, family legacy, and the global rise of African music.

Directed by the multitalented Alté creative Odunsi the Engine (who’s been on a directorial hot streak with videos for Scotty Lor1n, Egertton, and Dan.Papa.GTA), the “YSF” visual was filmed on location in Lagos and shot entirely on 16mm film. The result is a nostalgic, cinematic experience that feels less like a music video and more like a short film about identity, pride, and reconnection.

Adire, Art, and Ancestry

From the first frame, “YSF” immerses viewers in Yoruba culture. Wale, Teni, and Seyi Vibez are seen draped in a fusion of traditional Adire Alabela garments and modern Western silhouettes — a visual metaphor for the bridge between heritage and contemporary life. The video highlights the intricate wax-resist dyeing process behind Adire textile-making, a craft deeply rooted in Yoruba artistic tradition.

But the cultural depth doesn’t stop there. According to Afro Beats Magazine, a significant portion of the video was filmed inside an exhibition by Fadekemi Ogunsanya, a Nigerian artist recently named a finalist for the 2026 Loewe Foundation Craft Prize. Ogunsanya is known for preserving and reimagining traditional Yoruba indigo-dyed textile techniques through Adire Eleko artistry. Her inclusion adds a layer of historical authenticity that elevates the entire visual.

More Than a Song — A Generational Nod

Musically, “YSF” is already a standout track from Wale’s critically acclaimed album everything is a lot. The song blends English, Nigerian Pidgin, and Yoruba, all while name-dropping legendary Nigerian musicians like Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey, Sir Shina Peters, and King Sunny Adé. Teni and Seyi Vibez bring their own emotional weight and energy, making the track a true collaboration of equals.

For Wale — born Olubowale Victor Akintimehin to Nigerian immigrant parents — this video feels like a full-circle moment. While his career has often been associated with Washington D.C. and the DMV scene, “YSF” is one of his most intentional, unapologetic celebrations of where he comes from.

Credits & Craft

The video was produced by Priv8party, with Odunsi the Engine also serving as editor. Executive producer Kazz Laidlaw, producers Rare Chaba and Rex Tha Boss, and DP Kwame Carlos helped bring the vision to life. The full team — from gaffers and colorists to stylists and BTS photographers — delivered a visual that’s as meticulous as it is moving. Songs produced by Genio & Nova, exclusive license to Def Jam Recordings

Final Take

In an era where music videos often feel like afterthoughts, Wale, Teni, Seyi Vibez, and Odunsi the Engine attemts to deliver something rare: a visual that respects tradition, celebrates craft, and moves the culture forward. Whether you’re Nigerian or not, “YSF” makes you feel the weight of legacy — and the beauty of staying connected to your roots.

Watch “YSF” now on YouTube.

everything is a lot – Track list;

1. Conundrum

2. Belly

3. Where To Start

4. Blanco

5. Michael Fredo (Intro)

6. Michael Fredo

7. Power & Problems

8. Mirroronnabenz (feat. BNYX®️)

9. Watching Us (feat. Leon Thomas)

10. YSF (feat. Teni & Seyi Vibez)

11. Tomorrow Today

12. Big Head (feat. ODUMODUBLVCK)

13. City On Fire (feat. Odeal)

14. Fly Away

15. Corner Bottles

16. Like I (feat. Andra Day)

17. Survive (feat. Ty Dolla $ign, JTA & Nino Paid)Lonely (feat. Shaboozey)