Returning to the reggae sounds that shaped his early career, Nigerian singer Patoranking has teamed up with Jamaican reggae icon Buju Banton for a powerful new single, African Soldier. The track marks the start of Patoranking’s 2026 campaign and serves as the second release from his upcoming fifth studio album, blending Afrobeats with classic reggae and dancehall influences while celebrating African pride and global Black unity.
Built on rich live instrumentation and a roots-driven rhythm, African Soldier sees Patoranking reconnecting with the sounds that launched his rise in global music. The song was produced by Jamaican hitmaker Jazzwad, known for collaborations with Bounty Killer, Popcaan and Damian Marley. The production features live drums, bass, keys, guitars and a horn section recorded by Jamaican session musicians, with the final mix handled by Grammy-winning engineer Bonzai, whose credits include Mariah Carey, Nas and Chronixx.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the record, Patoranking explained that the new project intentionally revisits the reggae roots that influenced his early career. “While working on my album, the goal for me was to go back to the music that inspired me. The sounds I grew up on, and reggae has been that core for me,” he said, referencing his breakthrough hit Alubarika. He added that having Buju Banton on the record elevated the message of unity and pride the song aims to deliver across the African diaspora.
The single arrives with a music video directed by Nigerian filmmaker UAX, filmed in New York City and designed to reflect the global reach of African and Caribbean culture. For Patoranking, whose catalogue has surpassed two billion streams worldwide, African Soldier signals both a return to his musical foundation and a bold statement ahead of his next album cycle.
