A video of a French band performing P-Square’s hit song ‘Testimony’ (Taste the Money) at a prestigious state dinner in Paris has gone viral, prompting a response from Peter Okoye, one half of the formerly united P-Square duo. The performance, which took place at the Palais de l’Élysée during President Bola Tinubu’s diplomatic visit to France, has sparked conversations about cultural exchange and reignited discussions about the separated musical brothers.
The performance, which featured the French ensemble’s unique interpretation of the Afrobeat classic, took place during a high-profile dinner celebrating President Tinubu’s three-day state visit aimed at strengthening Franco-Nigerian relations. The band’s rendition, while maintaining the core essence of the original track, added distinctly French musical elements, creating an interesting cultural hybrid that caught the attention of both dignitaries and social media users worldwide.
Peter Okoye’s response to the viral moment was notably understated. Sharing the video on his Instagram platform with the simple caption “Enjoy your weekend! 🫣 #TasteTheMoney”, his post prompted a flood of reactions from fans, many of whom used the opportunity to address the ongoing separation between the famous twins. One follower, @Ugonna Uzohuo, humorously dubbed the French performers “OYIBO SQUARE,” suggesting them as a replacement for the original duo.
The timing of this cultural moment is particularly poignant as it comes amid fresh tensions between the Okoye brothers. Recent controversy has erupted over a song titled ‘Winning,’ which Paul Okoye claims Peter inappropriately claimed as his own. Producer Vampire Craze has added context to the dispute, revealing that the track was actually created during a brief period in 2022 when the brothers had temporarily reunited.
The French band’s performance, while intended as a gesture of cultural appreciation, has inadvertently highlighted the void left by P-Square’s separation. Social media reactions have ranged from amusement to criticism, with some fans like @Joy Shaibu questioning the band’s interpretation, while others like @Glory Gaius compared it to a choir performance, reflecting the challenges of crossing cultural and musical boundaries.
This cultural exchange at the Palais de l’Élysée represents more than just an entertaining moment; it demonstrates the far-reaching influence of Nigerian music and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries. President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s visible enjoyment of the performance underscores the potential of music to serve as a diplomatic bridge between nations.
The event has also reignited public discourse about P-Square’s legacy and their continued influence on global popular culture. Despite their separation, the brothers’ musical catalog continues to resonate internationally, as evidenced by this high-profile performance at a state function. The French band’s interpretation of ‘Testimony’ serves as a reminder of P-Square’s contribution to making Nigerian music globally recognizable.
As fans continue to hope for a reconciliation between the Okoye brothers, this moment of cultural exchange ironically emphasizes both their enduring impact and the sense of loss felt by their separation. The performance has become more than just a diplomatic gesture; it’s a reminder of P-Square’s musical legacy and their role in bringing Nigerian music to the global stage.
The incident also highlights how Nigerian music has become a tool for cultural diplomacy, capable of creating meaningful connections between nations. As President Tinubu works to strengthen ties with France, the inclusion of P-Square’s music in this diplomatic setting demonstrates the soft power of Nigerian cultural exports.
