Koko Pee’s sophomore EP All I Need blends vulnerability, street wisdom, and rich storytelling tradition into a solid, if uneven, project that showcases an artist on his own lane.
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The music that comes from Delta State is special, carrying with it a distinctive grace that has consistently produced some of Nigeria’s most compelling storytellers. Over the years, Warri and its surrounding areas have served as a special hub of entertainment, nurturing and birthing artists who possess an almost innate ability to weave narratives that resonate far beyond their immediate environment. This isn’t a coincidence; it’s a cultural phenomenon rooted in the state’s unique identity. From Erigga to Young6ix, Omawunmi, Don Jazzy and more, Delta State has emerged a lineage of exceptional storytellers.
What unites these diverse talents is a common thread: exceptional storytelling ability. There’s something in the cultural DNA of Delta State that produces artists who understand that music is fundamentally about human connection, and human connection happens through shared stories. Whether it’s tales of struggle in the oil-rich yet economically challenging region, narratives of migration and ambition, or stories of love and spirituality, Delta State artists possess a natural gift for transforming personal experiences into universal truths.
This musical heritage isn’t accidental. Delta State’s unique position as both an oil-producing region and a cultural melting pot has created an environment where struggle and aspiration coexist, where traditional values meet modern ambitions, and where storytelling becomes both a survival mechanism and an artistic expression. The artists who emerge from this environment carry these complexities in their DNA, possessing an inherent understanding that authentic storytelling requires both vulnerability and strength.
Listening to Koko Pee’s sophomore EP All I Need, it becomes immediately apparent that he taps from this same grace. His approach to songwriting, his willingness to be vulnerable while maintaining street credibility, and his instinctive understanding of how to connect with listeners through shared human experience all bear the hallmarks of this rich storytelling tradition. Koko Pee’s All I Need is the latest chapter in this ongoing narrative, demonstrating that the Delta State legacy of exceptional storytelling continues to thrive in new generations.
Ogaga Okokowa Jerry, professionally known as Koko Pee, hails from Oghara-Iyede in Isoko North Local Government Area. His journey embodies the classic narrative of Nigerian musical ambition: the migration to Lagos’s unforgiving spotlight, armed with nothing but talent, determination, and the weight of cultural expectations.
His popular track Shine Na established him as an artist to watch, demonstrating an ability to blend the raw authenticity demanded by street credibility with the melodic sensibilities required for mainstream acceptance. This duality, the capacity to be both vulnerable and assertive, both local and universal, defines much of what makes All I Need an intriguing, if imperfect, artistic statement.
The EP opens with raw emotional honesty as Koko Pee bares his soul over JIMoh Waxiu’s atmospheric production. The track serves as an autobiography and catharsis, chronicling his 2017 migration from Warri to Lagos and the subsequent struggles within Nigeria’s unforgiving music industry. His storytelling prowess shines through as he weaves tales of betrayal and loss with genuine conviction. The vulnerability displayed here sets a compelling emotional foundation for the project, though the execution occasionally feels overwrought.
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A tonal shift occurs on the second track, Paracetamol, where Koko Pee pivots to matters of the heart. The upbeat, vibrant production by JIMoh Waxiu brings a lively contrast to the opener’s sombre mood, showcasing the artist’s range. The romantic focus offers a lighthearted breather from the emotional intensity of Made From Pain, highlighting Koko Pee’s versatility. The creative metaphor comparing his love interest to medication adds a unique twist, giving the track a memorable and imaginative touch
Where The Money Dey is, without a doubt, the EP’s standout moment, the collaboration samples Sir Victor Uwaifo’s timeless “Joromi” to brilliant effect. Don Jazzy’s presence elevates both the production quality and commercial appeal, while his chemistry with Koko Pee feels natural and unforced. The sampling is respectful yet innovative, breathing new life into a classic while maintaining its essence. This track demonstrates what Koko Pee can achieve when working with established industry figures who understand how to maximize his potential.
High-octane energy defines 3TOTO as an anti-hater anthem, with Koko Pee adopting a more aggressive stance against detractors. While the message of perseverance resonates, the execution feels somewhat generic within the broader context of Nigerian confrontational tradition. The track serves its purpose as a confidence booster and has memorable hooks or quotable lines that will linger in the mind for a long time.
Not For Me featuring Peruzzi represents another high point on the EP. Shuombo Samuel Oluwaseun’s production provides a perfect backdrop for both artists to shine. Peruzzi’s hook: “If e no be God o, I for don die o, I for don kpeme o,” is instantly memorable and exhibits the kind of melodic sensibility that has made him a sought-after collaborator. Koko Pee holds his own alongside the more established artists, demonstrating growth in his ability to complement other vocalists.
Patrick Joshua Abundance’s production on the feel-good track Chairman sets the tone with an infectious, celebratory energy. The song continues the EP’s uplifting theme of gratitude, reinforcing a consistent and inspiring message. The inclusion of popular figures adds a fun, culturally relevant layer, connecting the listener to a wider community of success and influence. While the approach leans more universal than personal, it broadens the track’s appeal and maintains the momentum of the project’s feel-good spirit.
The EP concludes with a remix of Koko Pee’s popular track “Shine Na,” enhanced by Jeriq’s commanding presence. The collaboration works well, with both artists bringing distinct energies that complement rather than compete. Jeriq’s high-octane delivery provides an excellent counterpoint to Koko Pee’s more measured storytelling approach, creating a dynamic that elevates the original composition.
The production across “All I Need” maintains a consistent quality, with JIMoh Waxiu handling the majority of the work competently. The sonic palette draws heavily from contemporary Afrobeats while incorporating hip-hop elements that suit Koko Pee’s dual identity as singer and rapper. However, the production occasionally feels safe, lacking the adventurous spirit that might have pushed this project into truly memorable territory.
Koko Pee’s greatest asset throughout this EP is his storytelling ability, particularly evident on tracks like “Made From Pain” and his collaborations. His willingness to be vulnerable while maintaining street credibility creates an appealing duality that sets him on a unique path in the music industry. The feature selections demonstrate good A&R instincts, with Don Jazzy and Peruzzi adding genuine value rather than merely providing star power.
Despite its strengths, “All I Need” suffers from thematic inconsistency. While the emotional range is admirable, the transitions between moods sometimes feel jarring rather than organic. Some tracks, particularly “Paracetamol” and “Chairman,” feel underdeveloped compared to the EP’s stronger moments.
Within the broader landscape of Nigerian music, “All I Need” represents competent rather than groundbreaking work. Koko Pee successfully taps into the Delta State musical tradition while carving out his own space. The project serves more as a solid foundation for future growth than as a definitive artistic statement.
Final Verdict
The All I Need EP highlights an artist brimming with potential, confidently experimenting with his sound on the journey toward defining his unique voice.
The EP’s highlights, particularly the collaborations with established stars, suggest that Koko Pee performs best when challenged by high-caliber partners who push him to elevate his music. While the project doesn’t revolutionize the contemporary Nigerian sound, it establishes Koko Pee as an artist worth watching.
The EP marks a clear step forward from his previous work, SPOIL THEIR GEN BEYOND REPAIR, showcasing noticeable artistic growth and a stronger sense of identity. It lays a solid foundation for what promises to be an exciting creative evolution. With continued refinement in songwriting, adventurous production choices, and a deepening of his artistic vision, he’s well on his way to unifying his diverse styles into a powerful and cohesive voice.
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Rating: 6.5/10 – A solid effort that shows promise while revealing areas for growth.
