Nigeria’s newest viral star Salle has released her long-awaited debut EP, Only Sad People Smile, via United Masters. At just 21 years old, the gifted singer-songwriter has quickly become one of Africa’s most promising young voices, known for turning raw emotion into strikingly honest music that resonates far beyond her years.
Building on the viral breakout of her debut single “Icon” and the growing acclaim of follow-ups “Countdown” and “Underskirt”, Salle’s debut EP presents a cohesive seven-track journey of self-discovery, resilience, and vulnerability. Written entirely by Salle, the project is both an intimate diary and a universal statement — transforming life’s darkest corners into melodies that can still make you smile.
“Smiling was free therapy until the side effects included people thinking I’m fine,” Salle explains. “So I wrote all the emotions I wasn’t able to freely dwell in into melodies and now we have Only Sad People Smile.”
The EP begins with “Therapy”, a stripped-back and tender introduction to Salle’s world of introspection, before moving into “Underskirt”, an empowering anthem of female strength, self-belief, and resilience. “Pressure” offers one of the project’s most intimate reflections, balancing hope with struggle, while “Rebound” captures the honesty of fleeting heartbreak with easygoing charm. On “Psycho”, Salle flips the energy, leaning into the thrill and turbulence of love with playful delivery and humor.
The focus track, “If You Leave” featuring fellow Nigerian star Ayo Maff, is a stirring exploration of complicated love, while the closing track “Umeya,” delivers an ethereal moment of release — soft yet powerful, contemplative yet full of gratitude.
With Only Sad People Smile, Salle cements herself as one of Nigeria’s most unique young voices — fearless, innovative, and unafraid to bare her soul through her art.
Only Sad People Smile Tracklist
- Therapy
- Underskirt
- Pressure
- Rebound
- Psycho
- If You Leave (feat. Ayo Maff)
- Umeya
About Salle
Salle is a Nigerian singer-songwriter whose music blends vulnerability with strength in ways that feel both deeply personal and universally resonant. She first captured global attention with her viral debut single “Icon”, which amassed over 2 million Spotify streams and widespread recognition across social media. Her follow-ups “Countdown” and “Underskirt” further established her as one of Africa’s most compelling new voices. Drawing inspiration from her personal experiences, family, and environment, Salle creates music that bridges honesty with captivating soundscapes. With her debut EP Only Sad People Smile, she steps into a fearless new chapter as a rising force in Afro and Alte music. Connect with Salle on Instagram and Spotify
