AFRO TO HIS BEATS

CHAPTER 32

TOLANI'S POV

The air at Mavins HQ buzzed with creative energy as I stepped into the sleek building, the familiar scent of coffee and anticipation wrapping around me like a warm hug. Today was one of those days where everything felt alive, and I was excited to reconnect with the crew. The vibrant walls adorned with artwork from previous projects reminded me of the magic that happened within these four walls.

As I walked down the corridor, I spotted Loudaa, a producer I had heard whispers about but hadn't met yet. He was leaning against the wall, deep in conversation with a couple of engineers. I approached him, and he looked up, flashing a bright smile that instantly put me at ease.

"Hey, you must be Tolani!" he said, extending his hand. "I've heard a lot about you."

"Nice to meet you, Loudaa. I've been looking forward to this," I replied, shaking his hand firmly.

"Come on in; we're about to start recording. You should sit in," he said, leading me into the studio where Ayra Starr, Crayon, and Bayanni were already gathered.

"Hey, Tolani!" Ayra greeted me, her energy infectious. "Are you ready to witness some magic?"

"Absolutely! I can't wait to hear what you guys are working on," I said, taking a seat in the back, feeling the anticipation build as they prepped for their session.

We dove right into recording "Orun" and "If I Be You." Watching them work was mesmerizing—Ayra's soulful voice intertwined with the lively beats, Crayon's playful energy lighting up the room. Loudaa stood next to me, his fingers flying over the mixing board as he adjusted levels and added effects.

"I love your vibe, Tolani," Loudaa said, glancing my way. "You've got a great energy for this place."

"Thanks! I'm just soaking it all in," I replied, smiling back at him.

Once the recording session wrapped up, Loudaa turned to me. "You should totally be in the music video for 'If I Be You.' I can see it now—the energy would be off the charts."

"Really? That sounds fun! I'd love to," I responded, feeling a rush of excitement at the thought.

As the session continued, Loudaa motioned for me to come closer to the mixing board. "Check this out," he said, pulling up some new beats he was experimenting with. "I have a unique style, kind of a blend of Afro-fusion with a touch of urban vibe."

I listened closely, my mind racing with ideas. "What if you added a little more percussion here? It could really bring the beat to life!"

He raised an eyebrow, impressed. "Not bad! I might just take that advice." Our conversation flowed effortlessly as he asked about my work in Legacy of the Kings. I could feel the chemistry growing between us, fueled by laughter and mutual respect.

"Do you think we could create a 'Malia-inspired' beat?" he joked, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

"Only if you promise to make it as dramatic as my character!" I shot back, giggling.

Just as we were getting into a groove, my phone buzzed. It was Rema calling from tour.

"Hey, babe! What's going on?" I answered, grinning.

"Missing you over here! How's the studio? Did you impress everyone yet?" he teased.

"Just a bit! I've been vibing with Loudaa. We're cooking up some magic," I replied, and the crew around me erupted in playful teasing.

"Tell them I said hi!" Rema says.

"Sure, I'll let them know," I replied, feeling the warmth of our connection even across the miles.