Nigeria's vibrant music scene has welcomed a compelling new voice with the release of Onu Olisaemeka's debut project. Professionally known as Liseh, the artist dropped his highly anticipated Extended Playlist, titled Ready Uh Not, on 20 December 2025.
A Deep Dive into Vulnerability and Courage
The five-track EP serves as a raw and introspective window into Liseh's personal journey. It boldly tackles universal themes that many grapple with, including the fear of failure, self-doubt, relentless ambition, heartbreak, and the pressure to constantly evolve. More than just a collection of songs, Ready Uh Not is a narrative about finding courage and embracing inner growth amidst uncertainty.
Liseh opens up with remarkable honesty, sharing his fears, struggles, and triumphs. The project reflects a conscious choice to prioritize movement and progress over the paralysis of seeking perfection. It captures the essential human struggle between hesitation and the decisive action needed to move forward, even when one doesn't feel fully prepared.
"It reflects my journey of breaking free from perfectionism and trusting the process," the singer explained. "The project is a reminder that progress speaks louder than perfection, and growth begins the moment you take your first step, which is something everyone experiences and relates to."
The Sonic Landscape of a Rising Star
From track to track, Liseh builds a captivating world where private battles are transformed into art. His sound is a versatile fusion that defies simple categorization. He skillfully blends Afrobeat rhythms with alternative soundscapes, rap cadences, and deeply emotive writing. This unique mix showcases an artist with a clear and distinct sonic identity.
The EP features tracks like Retire, CareGiver, Jumbo, Area Girl, and Retinol. Through these songs, Liseh's soulful voice and emotive delivery are sure to resonate with listeners. Fans have already described his presence as 'enigmatic' and 'unpredictable,' drawing audiences into a space where raw authenticity meets refined artistry.
Liseh's background has significantly shaped his eccentric sound. Anambra-born and Port Harcourt-brought up, he was exposed to a wide range of musical influences growing up—from traditional African rhythms to global pop and R&B. His serious musical journey began at university with friends, where he discovered his profound love and innate talent for creating music.
More Than Music: A Mantra for Movement
At its core, Liseh's music transcends personal storytelling; it aims to inspire. The central mantra of the EP, and perhaps his philosophy, is powerfully simple: "You won't ever feel ready, you go anyway." This message of embracing vulnerability and taking action is the heartbeat of Ready Uh Not.
This powerful debut firmly positions Liseh as a rising star to watch in Nigeria's ever-evolving music industry. Beyond the audio experience, the singer cultivates a distinct aura—described as quiet, observant, and highly intentional. His choices in visuals, branding, and overarching storytelling reveal a talent who is deeply in tune with his own identity and the world that surrounds him.
