The Labarina Buzz is Back
In the world of Hausa music, few songs have managed to leave a lasting cultural imprint like “Labarina” by Naziru Sarkin Waka. Originally released in 2021, the song has resurfaced into mainstream attention in 2025, climbing YouTube trends and sparking online discussions—again!
But what exactly is making the Labarina song trend two years after its initial release? Is it pure nostalgia, or is something in the current entertainment scene reigniting interest?
Interestingly, a new song titled “Labarina 12 (XII)” by Salim Smart, released just last week for the popular Labarina Hausa Series, has also stirred emotions, causing fans to compare both songs and reignite conversations around the entire Labarina saga.
In this post, we dive deep into:
- Why Naziru Sarkin Waka’s Labarina is trending again,
- The fan reactions pouring in from social media,
- How Salim Smart’s latest version plays a part in this resurgence,
- And what it all means for Hausa music and fans.
The Story Behind “Labarina” by Naziru Sarkin Waka
When Naziru Sarkin Waka dropped Labarina, it wasn’t just a love song—it was a cultural moment. With his signature poetic delivery, the song beautifully narrates themes of heartbreak, resilience, and longing.
Watch the music video here:
It served as an unofficial emotional soundtrack to the Labarina Hausa series, even though it wasn’t officially commissioned. The fans adopted it as part of the storytelling, often quoting the lyrics during emotional episodes.
Over time, the song faded from active discussion—but never from memory.
Why It’s Trending Again in 2025
1. Release of Salim Smart’s “Labarina 12”
Just last week, Salim Smart released Labarina 12 (XII), a new theme song for the continuation of the Labarina series. As fans flocked to the new soundtrack, many began revisiting Naziru’s original version—triggering a flood of comparisons, debates, and playlists.
“I came to listen to Salim Smart’s new jam, but ended up playing Naziru’s version 5 times. The emotion there is different abeg.”
— @ArewaQueen on Twitter
![Insert screenshot of fan reaction here]
2. TikTok Trends & Fan Tributes
Several creators have recently used Naziru’s Labarina as background music for fan-edited clips from the Labarina Series, especially highlighting the romantic rollercoaster of Naza and Umar.
“Labarina” started trending with the #Zango12Challenge where TikTok users post the moment that made them cry most in the show using Naziru’s song.
3. The Nostalgia Effect
Sometimes, a good song just needs the right moment to return. According to Fatima Usman, a 24-year-old student in Zaria:
“Labarina by Naziru makes me cry every time. When I heard the new Labarina 12, it reminded me of everything I went through during lockdown. That’s why it’s trending again—it hits different now.”
Comparing Both Versions: Naziru Sarkin Waka vs. Salim Smart
| Feature | Naziru Sarkin Waka’s Labarina | Salim Smart’s Labarina 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Emotion | Deep, poetic, melancholic | Inspirational, series-focused |
| Release Period | Original (2021) | New (2025) |
| Tied to Series? | No (Unofficial fan favorite) | Yes (Official soundtrack) |
| Fan Preference | Loved for raw emotion | Praised for storyline relevance |
While Naziru’s version is considered timeless and soulful, Salim Smart’s is seen as an energetic continuation that fits the series’ tone as it enters its dramatic twelfth season.
Fan Reactions: What Are People Saying?
Instagram Comments
“Kai, I’ve not felt like this since Naziru released the first Labarina. He put soul into that track.”
— @haruna_jnr
“I dey stream both versions. But Naziru’s one? E still dey pain me small-small 😭.”
— @queen_zainab
Twitter/X
“Shoutout to Naziru Sarkin Waka. His Labarina deserves 100M views!”
— @hausabeatz
“Salim Smart try o, but nothing beats the OG Labarina jam. Na emotional heritage be that.”
— @kano_soundboy
Actionable Takeaway for Hausa Music Fans
If you’ve not listened to both versions recently, now’s the perfect time. Whether you want to:
- Reconnect with a moment of heartbreak,
- Feel inspired by a new storyline,
- Or just vibe to great Hausa music…
Labarina offers it all.
Stream & Download Links:
Relatable Fan Story
Amina Ibrahim, a 28-year-old fashion designer in Kaduna, told her friends:
“During the last season of Labarina, I lost my fiancé. The way Naziru sang about pain felt like he knew my story. This new version brought back tears and strength. Labarina is not just a song, it’s healing.”
Her story reflects the power of Hausa music to resonate with everyday lives. It’s why songs like Labarina don’t just fade—they return, stronger.
FAQ: Labarina Song
Why is Naziru Sarkin Waka’s Labarina song trending again?
The release of Salim Smart’s new Labarina 12 track rekindled interest in Naziru’s older version, leading fans to revisit the emotional masterpiece.
Is the song part of the Labarina TV series?
Naziru’s version was not officially commissioned, but fans unofficially adopted it as the show’s emotional soundtrack. Salim Smart’s version is the official one for season 12.
Where can I download both versions?
Naziru’s version: YouTube
Salim Smart’s version: hausasong.com
Which version is better?
Depends on what you’re feeling. For deep emotion, fans prefer Naziru. For current storyline vibes, Salim Smart is the go-to.
Are there more songs like Labarina in Hausa music?
Absolutely! Artists like Umar M Shareef, Ali Jita, and DJ AB continue to release emotional and story-rich tracks worth exploring.
Final Thoughts: Labarina Never Really Left
Songs that tell stories—real or fictional—have the power to live beyond charts. Labarina by Naziru Sarkin Waka is one such song. It has made its way back into the hearts of many Nigerians, proving that good music doesn’t expire.
So whether you’re team Naziru or team Salim Smart—or both—one thing is sure:
Labarina is more than just a song. It’s a feeling.
Have a memory with Labarina? Share it in the comments. Let’s talk.
Don’t forget to download both versions and keep the culture alive!
