Onesimus Muzik “Cigarette” Explained: Lyrics, Themes & Impact

On April 19, 2025, Onesimus Muzik released his dynamic new Afro‑beat single “Cigarette,” marking yet another milestone in his journey from Malawian dance prodigy to international Afropop sensation. With its infectious groove and emotionally charged lyrics, “Cigarette” continues to showcase Onesimus’s growth as a storyteller and his evolving musical vision. Download the song Cigarette

Introduction

On April 19, 2025, Onesimus Muzik unveiled his vibrant Afro‑beat single “Cigarette.” This track layers rhythmic percussion and melodic guitar motifs to probe themes of addictive love and inner turmoil, inviting listeners into a narrative of vice and vulnerability. In this post, we’ll trace the song’s origins, unpack its musical and lyrical craftsmanship, and situate “Cigarette” within the broader arc of Onesimus’s career.

Artist Background:

Armstrong Kalua—better known by his stage name Onesimus Muzik—was born on April 29, 1990, in Blantyre, Malawi. Growing up in the Chilomoni and Chilobwe townships, he discovered a passion for performance and songwriting early on. He first gained public attention as a dancer with the God Soldiers Dancing Group, winning the Sprite Dancing Competition in 2006. By 2008, he had transitioned into rap, joining the BBM Clique (Blessed Beyond Measure) and contributing to tracks like “By My Side” and “Random Thoughts” before embarking on a solo career. Over the years, Onesimus released Afro‑R&B mixtapes, collaborated with top Malawian artists, and earned both national and continental award nominations, gradually honing a signature sound.

Musical Evolution:

From his early days in rap collectives to solo R&B and Afropop endeavors, Onesimus has continually expanded his musical palette. His 2012 mixtape BRB and debut album Ndele blended smooth vocals with contemporary beats, foreshadowing his future Afro‑beat explorations. Critics and fans praise his “genre‑blending ability,” noting how he fuses Afro‑pop, R&B, and traditional Malawian sounds. This cross‑cultural approach—often featuring multiple languages and regional styles—has solidified his reputation as an Afropop innovator.

Context of “Cigarette”

“Cigarette” was released as a standalone single on April 19, 2025, with a runtime of 2 minutes and 58 seconds under Muthaland Entertainment. The song is credited to Onesimus as writer and falls under the Afro‑beat genre. It follows a string of successful singles like “Ubwela (Are You Coming),” “Love Again” featuring Piksy, and “Make Up Your Mind,” demonstrating his consistent ability to craft introspective yet danceable hits.

Production & Composition

Written by Onesimus and produced/engineered by Joshua Goodwin, “Cigarette” benefits from polished mixing by Sydney Tambulasi and Mphatso Nanchinga. Guitarist Ifiok Effanga contributes bright riffs, while Tambulasi’s mastering adds final sheen. Musically, the track features syncopated drum patterns characteristic of Afro‑beat, layered with melodic guitar lines and bass grooves that anchor its infectious rhythm. Onesimus’s vocals—rich in harmony and soulful inflection—elevate the track’s emotional resonance.

Lyrics & Themes

The song’s lyrics use the cigarette as a metaphor for addictive love, drawing parallels between nicotine dependence and self‑destructive desire. Imagery of burning embers and fading ash illustrates the tension between comfort and corrosion in relationships. Each verse delves deeper into this push‑pull dynamic, portraying passion that both sustains and harms.

 Vocal Delivery & Style

Onesimus delivers the verses with warm, soulful croons and fluid melisma, his emotive performance shifting between introspective confession and impassioned release. Influenced by his gospel roots, he navigates Afro‑beat rhythms and R&B inflections seamlessly, layering harmonies and subtle ad‑libs that heighten the song’s emotional stakes.

Visuals & Music Video

A stylized lyric video premiered on YouTube, featuring kinetic typography and atmospheric haze that underscore the song’s moody themes. Ahead of its online release, Onesimus hosted an exclusive screening in Blantyre, creating buzz among fans and media. Social media teasers and fan-made dance clips have since fueled grassroots excitement for the official music video.

Reception & Impact

Early reactions highlight “Cigarette” for its honest storytelling and memorable hook. Streaming platforms have featured it prominently alongside Onesimus’s past hits, while social media engagement—comments, shares, and fan covers—attests to its resonance. Entertainment outlets predict it will further cement his status in the Afro‑beat scene.

“Cigarette” stands as a testament to Onesimus Muzik’s artistic growth, blending potent lyricism with polished Afro‑beat production. Listeners are encouraged to stream the single on all major platforms, share their interpretations, and stay tuned for the forthcoming official music video. Download the song Cigarette