Zlatan releases third studio album 'Symbol of Hope'

Zlatan’s Symbol of Hope: A Testament to Resilience, Hustle, and Heart

The Zanku pioneer’s third studio album is more than music it’s a masterclass in perseverance, street wisdom, and unshakable belief.

Two years in the making, Zlatan’s Symbol of Hope has finally arrived, and it’s everything the street-pop architect promised: raw, reflective, relentless, and motivational. Across 15 tracks, Zlatan transforms his personal journey into a soundtrack for survival told by someone who’s lived every word.

A Title With Meaning Beyond Music

The album’s title isn’t just branding it’s a message. In a heartfelt interview alongside his son, Shiloh, Zlatan revealed the inspiration behind the project. Growing up in Ikorodu, where even three daily meals weren’t guaranteed, he drew motivation from those who rose from nothing.

“When I was growing up, I used to have people I looked up to. I saw people who made it from nothing to something,” he shared. “They were symbols that gave me hope. And now, a lot of people look up to me too, including you. I’ve become a symbol of hope to many.”

That philosophy forms the heartbeat of the album. From the fiery opener “Pay Day”, where he confronts past critics, to the introspective “Oyoyo”, which celebrates trusting the process, Symbol of Hope feels like the diary of a man who earned every victory through grit and faith.

A Celebration of Collaboration and Growth

Zlatan didn’t walk this journey alone. The album is packed with a powerhouse lineup of collaborators spanning generations of Afrobeats excellence Davido, Olamide, Flavour, Victony, Mayorkun, Shallipopi, Bhadboi OML, Qing Madi, Lojay, Idowest, TerryTheVoice, and FOLA transforming the project into something bigger than one artist’s statement.

Each feature feels purposeful. His chemistry with Olamide on “Gimme Your Love” is electric a full-circle reunion since their 2017 breakthrough “My Body.” Davido joins him on “Hip Hop Messiah,” reinforcing his status as a leader of the new generation, while Flavour adds highlife depth to “Genesis.” Rising star Qing Madi delivers a standout verse on “Demons,” addressing the pressure of fame with lyrical maturity that elevates the entire track.

These moments map Zlatan’s evolution from underground hustler to Afrobeats mainstay, showcasing his growth as both artist and connector.

Sound, Substance, and Spirituality

Musically, Symbol of Hope refines Zlatan’s signature fusion of street grit and melodic accessibility. Songs like “Odeshi” and “Happy Day” tap into his motivational, money-making anthems, while others add emotional depth. “Diamond” explores the intersection of love and survival through the lens of materialism honest, unfiltered, and real. On “Alpha & Omega” featuring Bhadboi OML, Zlatan opens up spiritually without losing his trademark energy.

Vocally, he’s more versatile than ever. Zlatan switches effortlessly between rapid-fire verses and soulful melodies, proving that he’s not coasting on past glories. He’s evolving still hungry, still grounded.

From Zanku to Legacy

Following Zanku (2019) and Resan (2021), Symbol of Hope feels like a crowning moment. It’s the culmination of his artistic, entrepreneurial, and personal growth a statement that solidifies his place not just as a hitmaker, but as a symbol of determination.

In crafting Symbol of Hope, Zlatan has done more than release another album. He’s written a blueprint for dreamers proof that resilience, authenticity, and belief can rewrite destiny.

The real “symbol of hope” isn’t just the music. It’s Zlatan himself the boy from Ikorodu who became the voice of the streets, and the mirror of their aspirations.

The Zanku Boss has arrived. And he’s brought the streets with him.