Songwriter Adinu, known professionally as Thenigpen, has stepped out as a recording artist with The Appetizer, a six-track EP released through Madhouse Records. According to NotJustOk, the project is available on all major streaming platforms.
From the writing room to the spotlight
Before releasing his own music, Adinu had already built a name behind the scenes. NotJustOk reports that he has contributed to records for RU and Ayra Starr, and that he co-wrote Dangerous and Dance from Ayra Starr's 2026 album Starrgirl. The publication describes the EP as the moment he steps forward with a sound and story of his own, introducing listeners to an artist it refers to as The Shepherd.
What the EP offers
The report says the project draws on personal experiences, heartfelt storytelling and infectious rhythms. Dear Father is described as vulnerable and reflective, while My Lane is said to carry a more confident, laid-back energy. Bonanza brings a celebratory mood, and Is It Over is presented as evidence of Adinu's willingness to explore beyond conventional genre boundaries. The source names only these four of the six tracks.
Background and label
Adinu is a Law graduate of Lagos State University (LASU). NotJustOk says that background shows in his songwriting, which it credits with attention to structure, detail and storytelling, and it calls his move from writing for others to releasing his own material a natural next chapter.
Madhouse Records, described as an independent label operating between Nigeria and the United States, is backing the release. According to the report, Adinu is positioning himself for a wider audience, and The Appetizer is framed as the start of an artistic journey rather than the end of one.
- Based on reporting byNotJustOk: Adinu serves up 'The Appetizer'
- Based on reporting byNotJustOk: Adinu serves up 'The Appetizer'
