The song was ranked the second most searched Nigerian song on Google in 2016 and won Song of the Year at the Soundcity MVP Awards.
Released in July 2016, by Tekno (also known as Teknomiles) is widely regarded as one of the most influential Afropop tracks of its era. Produced by Krizbeatz , the song became a massive continental hit, reaching number one on Apple Music across Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana. Critics often describe it as a "slow soother" that prioritizes catchy hooks and rhythmic "vibes" over deep lyrical complexity. Production and Sound
“Pana was a great song... but how can you say it is greater than Ojuelegba that even got an international collaboration with an Artist like Drake?” Facebook · Music Facts Everyday · 8 months ago Tekno – Pana | Music In Africa Teknomiles - Pana (Official Audio)
The song introduced the now-famous "cassava" metaphor, a humorous and persistent phallic reference in the lyrics that became a staple of the track's mischievous charm. Critical Reception
Reviewers from Music In Africa noted that Tekno often uses ad-libs and nonsensical phrases to pad the track, but admitted that "it works" because it enhances the song's rhythmic flow. The song was ranked the second most searched
Unlike traditional high-energy club tracks, "Pana" uses mellow, chattering drums that create a more relaxed, "less vigorous" dance rhythm.
The track's viral success on platforms like Facebook caught the attention of international A&R representatives, helping Tekno break into Western markets like the U.S. and U.K.. Perspectives on "Pana" Critics often describe it as a "slow soother"
“Tekno is a master of the pop tune... he adlibs some rhythmic gibberish because he knows the potency of his beats.” Music In Africa | · TeknoMilesVEVO · 9 years ago