UA.X - Love & Hustle (Album)
UA.X (Seyi Akinlade) is a Nigerian-born creative artist, widely known for his work as a photographer, music video director, and now, a musician. Having worked with renowned artists like Tems, Lojay, Tyla and Rema, UA.X's unique ability to blend visual and sonic artistry sets him apart as a multi-talented creative force. His debut album, Love & Hustle, marks his transition into music, blending the best of Afrobeats and R&B.
Seyi Akinlade, better known as UA.X, has been a long-time connoisseur of the arts, dabbling in various creative mediums, from professional photography to directing acclaimed music videos for artists such as Lojay, Rema, Tyla, and Tems. Now, UA.X is ready to take the music world by storm with the release of his debut album, Love & Hustle, which solidifies his newfound position in the music industry.
After launching his musical journey two years ago, UA.X’s debut album firmly projects the sonic signature he wants to be known for: warm, tonic melodies, unhurried R&B pacing, and soothing vocals. An artist who expresses himself through multiple mediums—photography, film, dance, and music—UA.X’s album delves into the balance between the love for art and the hustle required to succeed.
Love & Hustle, is a nine-track album that beautifully captures UA.X's personal and creative journey. With an overall runtime of 21 minutes, the album wastes no time, showcasing a seamless blend of Afrobeats and R&B, themes of love, and the grit of hustling through life. Though the album touches on the trials and triumphs of the hustle, it largely tilts towards love, exploring the multiple dimensions of romance, including its more painful and uncomfortable aspects.
The album’s production is helmed by TMXO, who serves as the executive producer, alongside a stellar lineup of producers including UA.X himself, Nonso Amadi, Chillz, Lexi, and Illithagreat. Their combined efforts have created a sonic landscape that feels both cohesive and diverse, with UA.X’s emotive vocals gliding effortlessly over languid instrumentals. With precise songwriting that feels lived-in and authentic, Love & Hustle, carries a dreamy, almost cinematic quality.
UA.X’s pivot into songwriting and recording music is commendable, with his ability to capture relatable interpersonal dynamics through his music, painting a full picture of romantic relationships—the good and the bad. The project is an introduction to his versatility as an artist, offering a refined blend of genres from neo-R&B to alt-pop.
From his early days as a photographer to becoming one of Nigeria’s most sought-after music video directors, UA.X’s evolution into a music artist feels natural. His debut album, Love & Hustle, is both a testament to his artistic growth and a manifesto for what’s to come. Balancing quick-paced yet soothing rhythms, UA.X has successfully leapt from behind the lens to centre stage, and he’s ready to make his mark.