Some artists find their sound early, others take the scenic route. Gabstabanj is firmly in the second camp, and his single "MAN" shows that the detour was worth it. It's a warm, rhythmic Afro-fusion track with a touch of amapiano, and it carries the story of an artist whose music stretches from Lagos to the north of England.
From Obadina to Newcastle
According to his bio, Gabstabanj, real name Gabi, was raised in Obadina, Lagos, and is now based in Newcastle after spending time in Birmingham. Music was always his first love, but he only decided to fully pursue it later in life, after moving to the UK. In his twenties he explored music production while also working in grassroots football, where he became a certified Level 1 coach.
Birmingham showed him how fast Afrobeats was growing on the global stage, and in 2016 he committed to his musical journey. He also formed the duo 2Bliss with fellow artist Mikado, and his bio mentions collaborations with veteran Nigerian artist Bigiano.
The Sound of MAN
His bio describes his music as a blend of Nigerian traditional rhythms, highlife, jazz, funk and soul, layered with polyrhythms and syncopated beats, with American hip-hop as an early influence. On "MAN" that mix leans towards Afrobeats and amapiano, with a groove built for moving rather than sitting still. It's the kind of track that feels at home both at a party and on a long drive.
"MAN" was released on September 18th, 2026 via 2Bliss Music.
Afrobeats and Amapiano Keep Spreading
Afrobeats has become one of the most influential sounds in global pop, and amapiano, with its rolling log drums and laid-back swing, has followed right behind it. What makes the scene so exciting right now is the diaspora: artists who grew up with Nigerian or South African sounds and now live in places like the UK are mixing those roots with everything around them. Gabstabanj is a great example of that cross-continental approach.
A Tip for Independent Artists
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What Do You Think?
Which do you prefer: classic Afrobeats or the amapiano side of things? Does "MAN" get you moving? Drop a comment below!
