About 14 years after stepping away from the spotlight, Nigerian rapper and music executive, Lanre Dabiri, popularly known as Eldee The Don, is preparing for a highly anticipated return to the music scene.
The rapper, who dominated Nigeria’s music industry in the 2000s with a string of hit songs, recently gave fans a preview of a new song on his social media page, signaling that his long break from recording music may finally be over.
The teaser is believed to be one of the tracks from his forthcoming extended play project titled Long Time Coming, a title that many fans say perfectly reflects his lengthy absence from the industry. Eldee’s announcement immediately sparked excitement online, with many music lovers flooding the comment section to welcome him back and express their eagerness to hear fresh music from one of Nigerian hip-hop’s pioneers.
The preview showcased the lyrical storytelling, smooth rap delivery and melodic style that earned him widespread acclaim during his prime, reminding listeners of classic records such as Big Boy, Bosi Gbangba and Na Wash.
Eldee stepped away from active music after releasing his last album in 2012, choosing instead to focus on business opportunities in the United States, where he established interests in technology, real estate and other entrepreneurial ventures.
Over the years, he has maintained that leaving music was a carefully considered decision rather than one forced upon him by circumstances.
In an earlier interview, he explained, “The business side of music for me wasn’t making sense anymore. I realised it was not something that was sustainable. Music wasn’t going to see me through retirement, so I decided to do something else.”
He also revealed that his other businesses were generating significantly more income, making it easier for him to leave the entertainment industry at the time and focus on securing his future.
Despite his long absence, Eldee’s influence on Nigerian music has remained undeniable. As a founding member of the legendary Trybesmen group and the founder of Trybe Records, he played a major role in shaping the careers of several artists, including Sasha P and Dr Sid.
His contributions helped define the sound of Nigerian hip-hop and Afrobeats during the early 2000s, earning him recognition as one of the country’s most respected lyricists and innovators.
With the announcement of his new project, fans are hopeful that the veteran rapper will once again make a significant impact on the evolving Afrobeats landscape while reconnecting with longtime supporters and introducing his music to a new generation of listeners.
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