Grammy-nominated Afrofusion artist BNXN and legendary music producer Sarz have officially reunited to release their joint five-track extended play “The Game Needs Us“, out now via EMPIRE.

“The Game Needs Us“

Building on a storied creative partnership that previously produced hit records like “Gwagwalada” and “Pidgin & English,” the new project combines BNXN’s melodic vocal delivery and introspective songwriting with Sarz’s textured, forward-thinking production.

The EP’s arrival was spearheaded by breakout single “Back Outside,” which debuted at No. 1 on Apple Music Nigeria while amassing over 22 million streams in just over a week. Across the rest of the project, the tracklist moves through the emotional pull of “Rum & Soda,” the pop ease of “Emotional High,” and closes with the introspective “Frank Sinatra.”

“The game needs us, just as the name implies,” BNXN shared regarding the project’s vision. “This project brings together two of Nigeria’s greatest forces to deliver a refreshing yet reflective experience. To show the dynamics in the African sound and to give a feel of where the future of the sound is headed.”

“After ‘Gwagwalada’ and ‘Pidgin & English,’ it’s only right we continue that chemistry,” Sarz added. “Working in this record with him helped me explore some African and South American sonic themes.”

“The Game Needs Us” marks BNXN’s first body of work in nearly ten months following his chart-topping 2025 sophomore album “CAPTAIN”. For Sarz, it stands as his primary follow-up to his debut album “Protect Sarz At All Costs”, which generated over 120 million streams in its first week.

With BNXN boasting over 4 billion career streams—built on solo success alongside high-profile collaborations with Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Pheelz—and Sarz’s foundational production legacy extending to international hits like Drake’s “One Dance” and Beyoncé’s “Find Your Way Back,” the collaborative EP represents a high-level convergence of two of modern Afrobeats’ most influential figures.

Benin City

Sarz was born Osabuohien Osaretin in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The city stands as one of West Africa’s most culturally significant urban centers. Serving as the capital of Edo State, this ancient city bridges a glorious past as the epicenter of the historic Kingdom of Benin with a vibrant, modern present.

Historically famous for its world-renowned Benin Bronzes—intricate brass sculptures that showcased advanced metallurgical skill centuries ago—the city remains a sanctuary for traditional African art and craftsmanship. The iconic Igun Street continues to host hereditary guild bronze casters, preserving techniques passed down through generations.

At the heart of the city’s cultural identity is the Royal Palace of the Oba of Benin, a revered symbol of leadership, tradition, and spiritual heritage for the Edo people. Beyond its rich royal history, modern Benin City is a thriving commercial hub, known for its bustling markets, rich culinary traditions, and energetic music scene.

In recent years, the city has also earned recognition as a prominent contributor to Nigeria’s booming entertainment and creative industries. Blending historic prestige, artistic mastery, and urban vitality, Benin City continues to shine as a monumental pride of Nigerian history and culture.