Afrobeat torchbearer Seun Kuti and his legendary band Egypt 80 have joined forces with Jamaican reggae star Kabaka Pyramid for their explosive new single, “Problems.” The powerful collaboration unites the revolutionary spirit of Afrobeat with the conscious energy of reggae, delivering a socially charged anthem that speaks to the realities of everyday life.
Produced by acclaimed drummer and Ezra Collective bandleader Femi Koleoso, “Problems” is driven by relentless drum patterns, rich jazz influences, shimmering guitar work, and commanding saxophone arrangements. The track balances hard-hitting political commentary with infectious grooves, creating a sound that is both urgent and irresistible.
Every aspect of the production reflects exceptional musicianship. The song was mixed by Riley MacIntyre and mastered by Stuart Hawkes at London’s renowned Metropolis Studios. A stellar lineup of musicians further elevates the record, including Anis Benhallak and Tobi Adenaike on guitar, James Mollison, Fabrice Fila, Nicolas Julien Sakelario, and Jermaine Amissah on saxophones, Chris Olusesi on keyboards, and Kunle Justice alongside Gbeke Ojutiku on bass.
Speaking about the collaboration, Seun Kuti shared, “I am truly thrilled to announce my new collaboration with my brother Kabaka Pyramid on our new single, ‘Problems.’ Bridging the gap between Afrobeat and Reggae, between West Africa and the Caribbean, is always a powerful vibration. It’s not just music, it’s a reunion of the Diaspora, a true Live-aspora! Working with Kabaka on this track has been an incredible experience, and I can’t wait for the world to feel the energy we’ve poured into it.”
Lyrically, “Problems” addresses the pressures and contradictions of modern society, reminding listeners that life’s struggles are universal regardless of background or profession. The song encourages resilience in the face of adversity while refusing to be consumed by the chaos of the world.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the record, Kuti explained: “‘Problems’ hits right at the heart of the everyday human condition. It speaks to the chaotic, contradictory world we live in, no matter who you are, whether you’re a doctor, a lawyer, a lecturer, or a hustler on the street. Everything feels like a puzzle, ‘hard like Sudoku,’ and people everywhere are just trying to navigate the madness and survive the daily stress. But as the song says, we can’t destroy ourselves over Babylon’s mess. We have to push back, fight the stress, and stand firm in our truth.”
The release follows Seun Kuti’s acclaimed 2024 album Heavier Yet (Lay The Crownless Head) and his 2026 single “Na Dem.” The album featured an impressive list of collaborators including Damian Marley, Sampa the Great, Pos of De La Soul, Adi Oasis, Kamasi Washington, and Alborosie, with production contributions from Lenny Kravitz. It was supported by an extensive 13-month world tour spanning more than 130 performances across Australia, South America, the United States, and Europe.
Seun Kuti and Egypt 80 are currently continuing their global tour following its launch in Barcelona earlier this year, with performances scheduled across the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, and North America, including headline appearances at The Regent Theatre in Los Angeles and Webster Hall in New York.
With “Problems,” Seun Kuti, Egypt 80, and Kabaka Pyramid deliver a fearless musical statement that celebrates unity across the African diaspora while confronting the realities of today’s world through the timeless power of Afrobeat and reggae.