WBS Review
Come Closer (feat. Drake) by Wizkid
Afrobeats meets Toronto rap in a sleek but familiar collaboration
By WorldBestSong · Published
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WBS rating
4.0out of 5
The track’s undeniable groove and star power make it an enjoyable listen despite some production choices feeling somewhat dated.
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Come Closer arrives as precisely what the title suggests – two significant figures from different musical worlds converging for a moment of shared prominence. The initial impression is one of polished grandeur; the production leans heavily into contemporary R&B textures while retaining a distinct African rhythmic pulse. Layers of synthesizers create a spacious feel, underpinned by a bassline that sits squarely within the trap aesthetic popular at the time of release. While undeniably smooth, this approach also hints at a certain sameness to much mainstream urban music, lacking perhaps the adventurousness found elsewhere in Wizkid’s discography.
The songwriting here prioritises immediate appeal over lyrical depth, and it succeeds admirably. Both artists contribute verses focused more on establishing presence than conveying complex narratives. Drake’s contribution, delivered in his characteristic half-sung flow, provides a textural contrast to Wizkid’s smoother vocals. However, the lyrics themselves remain relatively surface level, relying on established tropes of wealth and desire rather than offering particularly insightful observations or compelling storytelling—a trade-off inherent when aiming for maximum accessibility across diverse audiences.
Structurally, the track adheres closely to familiar pop conventions: an insistent intro builds anticipation before settling into a straightforward verse/chorus pattern. The arrangement doesn't take many risks, instead opting for gradual layering and subtle dynamic shifts which work well enough but don’t offer any surprises. The bridge features a slightly altered beat with some added percussion elements, providing a brief moment of variation before returning to the main theme. This predictability contributes to a sense of familiarity, even while acknowledging the novelty of the transatlantic pairing.
Wizkid’s vocal performance is arguably the song’s strongest asset; he navigates the production with effortless cool, showcasing both the melodic richness and rhythmic precision that define his style. His delivery possesses a laidback confidence, anchoring the track even as Drake's contributions sometimes feel somewhat detached. The interplay between their voices creates a pleasant sonic texture, though one can argue that neither artist truly stretches beyond their comfort zones. The synergy isn’t quite magical, more a professional alliance designed to maximize commercial potential.
The best moment arrives during the chorus, where Wizkid's soaring vocals combine with a subtly intensified bassline, creating a satisfyingly propulsive groove. It's here that the collaboration feels most genuinely unified, demonstrating how blending distinct styles can result in something uniquely compelling—even if only momentarily. While not groundbreaking, this section encapsulates the track’s central appeal: an undeniably catchy hook delivered with considerable charisma.
Come Closer resonates particularly strongly with fans of contemporary Afrobeats and those who enjoy mainstream hip-hop/R&B hybrids. It serves as an ideal introduction for listeners unfamiliar with Wizkid’s broader catalogue, offering a taste of his distinctive sound within a globally accessible framework. Although it doesn’t represent the pinnacle of either artist's creative output, its polished production, star power pedigree and infectious rhythm ensure it remains a memorable entry point into the world of modern crossover music.
Pros
- Infectious rhythmic groove
- Strong vocal performance by Wizkid
- Seamless blend of Afrobeats and R&B elements
- Polished and commercially appealing production
Cons
- Lyrically somewhat shallow
- Production lacks originality
- Drake's contribution feels detached at times
- Structurally predictable
Mood:nightclubsummer vibescity lightsdriving
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