Rising Afrofusion artist Neo 21 is set to release his debut EP Teriqus on 25 July 2025, marking a
bold new chapter in his journey as an independent UK Rap/Afrobeats artist. Based in Bradford, Neo
21 combines Afrobeats, melodic hip-hop elements with reflective lyricism into a four-track project
that feels both deeply personal and sonically expansive.
Inspired by the Greek word Neotericos—meaning “new-age/innovative poets”—Teriqus is a nod to
Neo’s earlier moniker, Neoteriq, and a declaration of the artist he’s become. “I’ve made two
projects that never came out,” Neo shares. “So finally sharing Teriqus feels like a full-circle
moment. It’s a snapshot of the different layers that make up my sound and story.”
The EP follows a year of steady momentum: three singles, a self-directed music video, over 70,000
streams, playlist support, and airplay on Amazing Radio (UK/US) and BCB Radio. His music has
also been spotlighted by 70+ media outlets across the UK, Nigeria, and Europe, including by The
Guardian, Brukmer, Gracey Mae, Telegraph& Argus, Daily Trust, Conversations About Her, and
WeTalkSound.
Performance-wise, Neo 21 has built a strong grassroots presence, having appeared on stages
across West Yorkshire including Bradford Live, Lagos Lounge, 1in12 Club, The Underground, and
the University of Bradford. He’s also shared the stage with Afrobeats icon Duncan Mighty, opened
for Nigerian star Shoday on his UK tour, performed for the Lord Mayor of Bradford at The
Community Stars Award and featured in Bradford City AFC’s alternate kit unveiling.
While each track on Teriqus carries its own identity, ranging from defiant ambition to romantic
vulnerability, the project as a whole offers a compelling look at what resilience, identity, and self-
definition sound like in 2025.
The Smoke, the EP’s high-energy opener, sets the tone, blending sharp lyricism with cinematic
production to explore the hunger, fire, and clarity it takes to bet on yourself in an industry full of
noise.
“Lyrically, Neo 21 stands firm in his independence, pushing back against forced expectations and
embracing his own path.”
— The Guardian (Nigeria)
“Neo 21 confirms his place as a voice to watch for anyone who loves fresh beats, real emotions,
and music that hits right in the heart.”
— Brukmer (Belgium)
The EP will be supported by a string of UK performances including:
August 16 – Bradford African Festival of Arts (BAFA)
September 5 – Wakefield Exchange
October 19 – The Grayston Unity (Halifax) …with more dates to be announced.
Teriqus will be available for early access via Even, where fans can also grab exclusive bundles
including merch, physical CDs, posters, and collectibles. The official release hits all platforms
on 25 July 2025.