Hold onto your headphones, buckle up, turn up the volume, and get ready to experience a musical journey like no other, as we dive headfirst into the hottest new releases that are sure to dominate the airwaves and leave a lasting mark on the world of music. Get ready, music lovers, because the revolution is here, and it sounds absolutely incredible!

Bongeziwe Mabandla “ndikhale”

The latest single from South African artist Bongeziwe Mabandla captures the raw emotion that results from songwriting in a moment of pure heartache. Titled “ndikhale”, the single is the third from the award-winning artist’s forthcoming album amaXesha and it’s the most earthy song on the album, a potent reminder of the musical essence that’s at the core of all Mabandla’s recorded output. “Sometimes heartache can be terrifyingly moving, and in this case, it inspired ‘ndikhale’,” shares Mabandla. In the wake of a call that left him feeling let down, dismissed, and unfairly treated, he turned to songwriting to mark the moment and make the pain evident. “I wanted to go into a hole. That’s how the line “Ngaske Ndikhale ndigaze ndiyeke (“I wish I could cry and never ever stop) surfaced. I held on to that line for a few days while trying to find chords that would match my sorrow”.

Deep London ft Nkosazana Daughter “Ithuba”

Lita Kupela popularly known as Deep London is a two times Metro FM awards nominee and has released an amazing amapiano single “Ithuba” featuring the incredible vocalist Nkosazana Daughter. Ithuba is a song about a girl who wants her ex-boyfriend back and believes in second chances. As the song plays, we envision her clutching her phone while she peruses old photos of their adorable and joyful past. This song is a celebration of love and here they are showcasing how amazing love is. “Ithuba is a love tune, I want to inspire those who have given up on love. Two individuals who are in love are the subject of the song. I have collaborated with the amapiano producer Villosoul on this love song. Everybody gets a second chance, and the song’s title, “iThuba,” is a Zulu word that means “Chance.” I give Nkosazana flowers for her writing skills and her work is always of the highest calibre, and she is amazing to work with” Commented Deep London.

Titose “I’ll Never”

Alternative R&B trapsoul singer/songwriter, Titose, gets vulnerable with her new single “I’ll Never”. Originally created for a collaboration with a pop artist, Titose merges the worlds of pop & R&B seamlessly balancing the playful side of pop music with the reflective and vulnerable side of R&B. “I’ll Never” is very emotional in lyrics and theme as it’s verbatim telling a love interest you don’t think you’ll ever be able to find someone like them, which is so hard to do these days with people always guarding their affections for each other.

Sishii “I Don’t Dance”

Multi-hyphenated talent, Sishii, closed his acting chapter on Gomora in April bidding farewell to the beloved character Ntokozo as he goes all-in with his music career; dropping his highly anticipated new single “I Don’t Dance”. Sishii’s exit from Gomora comes off the back of signing a record deal with Mr Eazi’s emPawa Africa after deciding to pursue his music career full-time. “I’m very grateful for the character of Ntokozo. Through Ntokozo I was able to engage in the journey of finding a home, finding a place to belong, and navigating the trepidation of an unpredictable world,” shares Sishii.

Vuyina “22.02.99”

Playground Production’s artist, the afro-pop superstar, Vuyina drops her debut album 23.02.99. In her debut album, 23.02.99, Vuyina shares an array of personal stories reflecting moments of joy, sorrow, and introspection that have influenced her journey from her very beginning to who she is today. This intimate offering contains numerous transformative experiences that have impacted her life in various ways. At times, Vuyina finds it difficult to articulate her feelings be it happiness or sadness but creating this album allowed her to confront the issues she had difficulty verbalizing and enabled her to find solace. She hopes that those facing similar circumstances or recovering from them can also find healing, love and happiness through her music. The album, overseen by its executive producer PLXYGRND, boasts an impressive lineup of artists, including Sizwe Alakine, Money Badoo, Loki, and Nomfundo Yekani.

Jujulipps “Saucy”

South African-born and New Zealand-based artist Jujulipps, is coming in hot- releasing her brand new fire single ‘Saucy’! The unapologetically confident and emerging artist has been making waves in the rap scene in and around the city of Tāmaki Makaurau where she is based and now; she is bringing some of the hot sauce back home! Born in Cape Town, South Africa with roots stretching across the African continent and ancestral ties to Burundi and Congo, she draws inspiration from the soulful sounds of Africa, the upbeat rhythms of Amapiano, and the powerful energy of hip-hop and afrobeat. “I am a child of the diaspora, and my music is a celebration of the richness and vibrancy of my home continent. My ultimate goal is to empower my listeners to feel good about themselves, recognize their worth, and be proud of who they are, especially my fellow immigrants who now call Aotearoa (New Zealand) home.”

Teni “No Days Off”

One of the most unique and exciting voices on the scene, Teni takes things in a new direction with the club-ready single ‘No Days Off’. ‘No Days Off’ sees Teni reflect on her journey thus far, highlighting the value of a great support system, diligence, persistence, and consistency as she gears up for her busiest year to date. An uplifting vibe starter, ‘No Days Off’ pairs sharp Afropop percussion with ethereal synth melodies and Teni’s fluid, genre-hopping vocals. Starting off as a freestyle, the song was born after Teni heard the beat at a friend’s house and it stopped her in her tracks. It was made on different stages around the world and has already generated a lot of buzz online and IRL at Odunsi (The Engine)’s Lagos Concert. Teni says “‘No Days Off’ was made everywhere in the world – that’s why it really is called, ‘No Days Off’. It was made in Lagos, it was made in LA, some parts of it were also made in Cape Town.” she adds, “I love this song, it means so much to me and I know you guys are also going to find your meaning to it.”

VenusRaps “Superstar EP”

From the first bar of VenusRaps’ EP ‘Superstar,’ it is clear that the record is rightfully named. VenusRaps was formerly one of Johannesburg’s best-kept secrets, but her star has been rising recently. She has worked with brands like Adidas and Ofentse Mwase in recent years, and she has also appeared on shows like Yo! MTV Raps, MTV Base Cypher, Trace Africa, and the Zakwe KZN Freestyle Cypher. VenusRaps isn’t one for fluff or adlibs, but her pen game is laser-focused, vibrant, and deadly throughout “Superstar,” as she deftly combines catchy hooks with vicious bars that would make any battle rapper blush. One of the EPs that came out of the now-famous Re.decay songwriting camp at Jazzworx Studios in late 2022 is called “Superstar.” This EP showcases production from AirDee and Phoniks, two of SA’s fastest-rising young producers, and includes features from Buzzi Lee, MaTa, and Hāzy. “Being a young, black, plus-sized woman in the male-dominated field of Hip Hop requires me to have a lot of confidence and braggadocio. Especially in SA ’cause we’ve had very few female rappers who’ve had commercial success,” says Vanessa. “I would love to change how female rappers are seen in SA.”

Mellow & Sleazy “Midnight in Sunnyside 2”

Bacardi & Amapiano sound pioneers, Mellow & Sleazy, also known as “Bafana Ba Kwa-kwa,” are back with a bang as they release their fourth EP titled “Midnight in Sunnyside 2”. This comes as a highly anticipated follow-up to their previous release, MINS1, Mellow & Sleazy have revealed that they plan to make this an annual tradition, dropping a new project every year on April 20th, also known as “4/20”, a date that holds special significance for the duo in celebration of Mellow’s birthday. The new EP boasts an impressive line-up of collaborations with notable artists in the Amapiano scene. Tracks like “Sjeso Sa Ma Groetmane” featuring 25K, Focalistic, TheBuu, and Lastborn Diroba, “Kwelinye” featuring Keynote, and the latest release single “Tesha” with TumeloZa featuring LeeMcKrazy, TyroneDee, and TitoM, showcase Mellow & Sleazy’s ability to curate a star-studded album with unparalleled musical prowess.

Jesse Clegg “Called To Hear Your Voice”

Platinum-selling South-African singer-songwriter Jesse Clegg dropped his single “Called To Hear Your Voice” which was written by and recorded in LA with frequent collaborators Nicholas Petricca and Grammy Winning Tim Pagnotta who produced and mixed the track. “I had been in LA for several weeks working on my new album and I was feeling exhausted and homesick. The song is about being far from home and that experience of phoning that special person in your life that brings you comfort. I would call home often to feel that connection and I realised that it wasn’t what was actually said on the call that mattered, but just the sound of their voice that brought me back to myself and made me feel strong again. The song is about that special connection” comments Jessie.

MVNSA “Twende”

Niger-Tanzanian rockstar MVNSA released his single, “Twende.” The boisterous party song reflects MVNSA’s confidence and showmanship, urging listeners to party hard and feel good. Despite its groovy nature, the song touches on themes of hard work, redemption, willfulness, and optimism. MVNSA fuses Swahili and English to portray the image of a work-riddled hustler with a broken heart. As a music production graduate, he collaborates with various acts and has a polyglot-like ability to navigate languages. His sound, influenced by Afro House, Amapiano, dancehall, psychedelic, and hip-hop, is termed “Afrodelic.” MVNSA aims to bridge East and West Africa through his music and explore opportunities in the Kenyan music industry and creative realms.

Benzo “Isdenge”

Imali hitmaker Benzo has dropped his newest amapiano single called “Isdenge” featuring the greatest music producer and DJ, Heavy K and the soothing vocalist and songwriter Lu Ngobo. The song “Isdenge” is about a woman who has had enough of her relationship, including the trials and deception she has had to put up with. Isdenge, which translates to “a fool,” is the word she uses to express her decision to end the relationship. Lu Ngobo, who also sings the song, also wrote the lyrics of the song. Two DJs and producers came together to make this amazing song. “I love this song because so many people can relate to it and can identify with it in terms of relationships and how it makes them feel about their love lives.I am extremely grateful that Heavy K and Lu Ngobo are part of this wonderful song”, commented Benzo. “This was a fun song to make and write about as it talks about relatable issues when it comes to love and relationships. Honestly cannot wait for y’all to hear this one. I really enjoyed working with Benzo and Heavy K”, said Lu Ngobo.

Yaba Buluku Boyz ft Falz “Madam De Madam”

Mozambican hit group Yaba Buluku Boyz and Nigerian rapper Falz are out with a sunny visual for their recently released cracker of a party sound, “Madam De Madam.” Directed by The Alien, the video follows DJ Tarico, Nelson Tivane, Preck, and the Bahd Guy at the premises of a funky auto shop, where they shut down the venue Amapiano style. Whenever the Yaba Buluku Boyz drop a song, you already know what to expect next: a breathtaking video! And their latest collaboration lives up to this standard, if not exceeds it. The contemporary visual is a delight to behold from the get-go; there is no looking away once your eyes fix on its colorful setting. The Alien’s dramatic shots instantly engross, with each scene reverberating the upbeat tempo of DJ Tarico’s superb production. 

Marco De Vil “Complicated”

Rising singer, songwriter, rapper, and model Marco De Vil, who recently released his powerful single “Don’t Want You Back,” is set to drop his much-anticipated follow-up, “Complicated.” The new single will continue to explore the themes of love, heartache, and the complexities of toxic relationships, providing listeners with an honest and vulnerable look into the singer’s life experiences. “Complicated” comes on the heels of the success of “Don’t Want You Back,” which captured the raw emotions and turmoil of a toxic relationship from Marco’s past. His honest and dark sound has resonated with listeners, who have turned to his music for comfort, help, and healing. In discussing the new single, Marco explained, “Complicated is the next chapter in the story, diving deeper into the emotional roller coaster that comes with such relationships. It represents the struggle of moving forward while still being tangled up in the memories and feelings of the past.”

TNK Musiq “Masterpiece”

TNK Musiq, the powerhouse Amapiano duo hailing from Johannesburg Turffontein, dropped their single titled “Masterpiece”. The instrumental Amapiano hit features the renowned DBN Gogo and showcases TNK Musiq’s exceptional production skills, alongside the talented Rivalz. With a proven track record of creating Amapiano hits that have taken the streets by storm, TNK Musiq, comprised of Siseko Njenge, also known as Kyle De Producer, and Thabo Ndlovu, also known as T-Man RSA, has made an incredible name for themselves as one of South Africa’s leading Amapiano producers. “We are thrilled to release our latest single ‘Masterpiece’ featuring DBN Gogo and Rivalz,” said TNK Musiq. “This instrumental Amapiano hit is a labour of love, and we are proud to share it with our fans. We are grateful for the support we have received, and we look forward to continuing our musical journey.”

Kiddo CSA “Worldwide Eye”

Worldwide Eye asserts Kiddo as an artist who feels and creates music that reflects just that. His musical ear keeps expanding with each project he puts out. While he is intentional about his artistry and approach, he still understands melody, tonality, and cadence – all of which get the fans turned up. ‘My experience recording in London was great. Getting to learn how people from all over the world do music was really interesting. It taught me a lot and broadened my experiences with music and how to tap into other ways to make music. Working with Moniquè was insane. I think I was intrigued – learning how she does stuff and the melodies she comes up with, it was really dope. The producers as well, hearing sounds I’ve never heard before was intriguing. I would wake up every day looking forward to locking in with different producers.’ ‘I want people to understand and appreciate everything it took to create this project – the different cultures and musical creativity, the sounds. There are so many things wrapped in this one project and I want people to connect with that.’

DJ Lag ft Novelist “Bulldozer”

New single from South Africa’s DJ Lag and the UK MC Novelist is proving the malleability of gqom and making an audacious case for the South African genre’s ability to muscle into the music mainstream. Titled “Bulldozer” the single was recorded in London and pairs Lag’s monstrous gqom beats with Novelist’s high-speed lyrical flow to create a sound that feels both natural and new. The sonic meeting of these two fiercely independent artists is the first collaboration to be released during the Alpha Zulu World Tour Series that DJ Lag announced back in February. “I want to blend genres and create new sounds along the way,” said Lag at the time. This year is “going to be about exploring and experimenting on stages and studios,” he added – and, as a first shot, “Bulldozer” is as potent as singles come.

Masandi ft Mathandazo Gayta “Bekezela”

In what echoes much like an Afro-pop melody, Masandi offers a phenomenon sonically familiar to his previous works. Apart from bestowing his fans with a standard inspirational track, in his new single “Bekezela”, Masandi portrays vocals more nuanced, depicting this release as something quite unique. After a short hiatus since his EP release, Kaleidoscope and a Crown Gospel Award win, Masandi returns to African spiritual and traditional fashion with hit single “Bekezela”. Commencing with rhythmically syncopated cowbell thuds and ululating, “Bekezela” seeks to engross the soul into a trance much earlier than the melody has the opportunity to. Accompanied by keys that are melodically charming, edging on the sphere of House, the track gradually builds mechanisms that highlight Masandi’s vocals in ways never heard before. As a musician, known for producing music harnessing R&B vocal tone, in “Bekezela” Masandi delivers the melody in traditional Zulu tones, matching those of the featured artist, Mathandazo Gayta. “It’s a song about endurance, longevity, and believing in your dreams. It’s dedicated to anyone who is fighting for its fruition. It’s a constant conversation with self in One; realizing their ultimate potential” – Masandi, 2023.

Lucasraps “uMuthi (Voodoo)”

Lucasraps returns with a brand-new single titled uMuthi (Voodoo). The kid who broke all the rules and became a leader of the new school, Lucasraps… is back on the radar with an anticipated song which had his fans on their toes and begging for more. The song premiered exclusively on “From the Block Performance” and received a great deal of attention from his core supporters. uMuthi (Voodoo) is the result of Lucasraps channelling a story never heard before or even spoken about, it echoes trials, troubles & tribulations he went through in his spiritual journey, beliefs about himself and his peers in opposition to his enemies. uMuthi is a causerie about lucasraps’ spiritual journey. “I believe that God has given me the gift of communicating clearly through music, spreading a message of hope & perseverance. In this song, I pray for everyone who is going through anything similar to what I have experienced. You will enjoy listening to it as much as I did after I made it, so I hope you will use it with all your heart”, says Lucasraps.

Kizz Daniel “Shu-Peru”

Singer songwriter Kizz Daniel has dropped his latest single, “Shu-Peru” via Flyboy Inc / EMPIRE. The Nigerian afrobeats sensation and #1 most streamed artist in Africa is gearing up for a new album, a tour, and a performance at Essence Festival on July 2. Kizz joined forces with TG Omori again for the “Shu-Peru” video premiering on Friday, May 12. The two have a proven track record of success as Omori shot the videos for “Buga” and “RTID”. Both songs reached the #1 on the Global Shazam Chart and have 143M and 72M views on YouTube respectively. “Shuperu” is produced by Reward Beatz, mixed and mastered by LA-based Jaycen Joshua.

Kayode “Still Figuring Life”

Genre-bending, songwriting and performing artist, Kayode, comes full circle with his debut EP, “Still Figuring Life”. The rising young African star is quickly amassing a strong fanbase and already has north of 50 million streams under his belt. With high anticipation for his EP, “Still Figuring Life” is an introspective project that explores the complexities of the human experience, capturing the challenges and triumphs of navigating life’s uncertainties through soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Kayode’s raw and honest sound invites listeners to connect with their own struggles and triumphs. “Topics on my EP range from Love and Hope to Heartbreak and Determination. All things that I believe are relatable to my audience,” shares Kayode. “Still Figuring Life” serves as a compelling and emotional work of art that speaks to the beauty and complexity of the human condition, that music lovers globally will enjoy.

Chmba “Okongola”

From the tender age of 7, Chmba (Chmba Ellen Chilemba) has been on a mission to fuse the funkiest afro sounds, future beats, and house grooves. Drawing inspiration from her Pan-African roots and a deep sense of sonic motherhood, she creates infectious Afro-electronic, indie, and house alternative sounds, infused with time-traveling synths, fiery strings, and African percussive rhythms. As Glamour Magazine’s Woman of the Year (2017) Chmba has rocked impressive stages across the globe, including the World Economic Forum in Davos, BBC Radio 6, and Tumbler Select Playlist. She’s also opened for Grammy-winning artists like Angelique Kidjo, Nile Rodgers, Metro Boomin, and Laura Mvula, cementing her status as a true trailblazer in the music industry. Chmba is more than just a talented artist – she’s also a dedicated activist and founder of Tiwale, a community center in Malawi that supports women and gender minorities through art and educational opportunities. Her inspiring work has earned her a spot on Forbes’ Africa 30 Under 30 list, as well as recognition from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Global Citizen as a Youth Advocate. Chmba’s unique sound, magnetic energy, and commitment to social change make her a force to be reckoned with, both on and off the stage.

Lungisa Xhamela “Kuwe Bawo”

After a three-year hiatus, Lungisa Xhamela is back with a new single that showcases his versatility and spiritual depth. “Kuwe Bawo” is a prayerful amapiano masterpiece that blends infectious beats with heartfelt lyrics, making it an instant hit for fans of both gospel and dance music. The song, which is the first single off Lungisa’s highly anticipated second studio album, is a celebration of faith, hope, and joy. With its catchy chorus and uplifting melody, “Kuwe Bawo” is sure to leave listeners feeling warm, encouraged, and eager to hit the dance floor. “Kuwe Bawo” is a testament to Lungisa’s artistic growth and his commitment to delivering music that speaks to the soul. It’s a timely reminder that, despite the challenges of the past year, there is still reason to believe in a brighter future. The single is already gaining traction on radio and streaming platforms, and fans are eagerly anticipating the release of the full album later this year.

Soul Marley “SINNER”

South African-based Nigerian Songwriter, Record Producer, and Singer Soul Marley admits that we are all “Sinners” on his new single. In this song Soul Marley talks about the pressure that comes with the spotlight, His battle with anxiety, and how he handles it with vices of the world he delivers his pain with an eclectic flow mixed with tenor, baritone, and bass vocal range. Soul Marley is known for his fusion of Jazz, Reggae, Afro beat, Dancehall, Hip Hop, and Soulful Blues together he creates “A Unique Sound” with all manner of funk strumming patterns from a Bass Guitar, Saxophone, Bongo, piano and drums Well, people dance, move, hop and sing a lot.

Nhlonipho, Martin Khan and Mo T “OH MAMA”

Afrobeats and Afropop meet with a beautiful afro sound to the most special person, Mama. Nhlonipho, Martin Khan, and Mo T bump heads in studio to create a perfect rendition to all mother’s out there, continuing the celebration of Mothers. The song is relatable to everyone who reaches a point of realization that a mother’s prayer is truly what keeps us going. Oh Mama is a tribute and dedication to mothers who never give up on their children. On the song, Nhlonipho sings “Ungifundzisile indlele khanjwa ngay ungibonisile. Kodwa Mama, Ngakhetsa kabi ngbon indlela yabangani. Hhhayy sekunzima kutsi ngbuyele emuva. Mama ngiyaybona imthandazo yakho” which translates, “You have taught me the right path yet I chose the path of my friends, It’s hard to go back. Mama, thank you for your prayers.” The sound of Mo T’s trumpet brings the emotion of the song to life with Martin’s vocals, singing “Oh Mama, Oh Mama” alongside.

Nontokozo Mkhize ft Nomfundo Moh “Lu Strong”

Rising Afro-soul singer and songwriter, Nontokozo Mkhize, makes a grand debut with the single “Lu Strong” featuring award-winning, platinum-selling artist, Nomfundo Moh. “Lu Strong” delivers a strong message of “love conquers all”, the song describes unshakable love, that despite 3rd party’s bad influences, their bond remains unshaken and love prevails. It will be a beacon of hope even for those that are out of love, that such love still exists in these hard times. The song uses modern Afro-pop sounds blended with an old-school RnB feel. “I’ve waited so long for this moment. I’m proud to announce and finally share my debut single with the world,” expresses Nontokozo Mkhize. She adds: “Thank you to my sister Nomfundo Moh for helping me bring this song to life in such a beautiful manner.”

Smilo Crystal “Heartbeat”

Rising Singer and Songwriter, Smilo Crystal is becoming a name to remember in the music and entertainment industry. Her debut single ‘Heartbeat’ was released in 2021, with a follow-up single titled ‘Total Stranger’ which has since been a commercial success. Awunak’thula is Smilo’s latest single and has been making waves with its catchy beats and meaningful lyrics. The Mpumalanga-born artist who began honing her craft at the tender age of 12 not only maximizes her skills in music but is also talented in Dance and Poetry. Already known for her versatility and the honest messages she delivers in her lyrics, Smilo is on a mission to take on the mainstream music scene. “I got into music because of the love I have for it, it makes me happy. I love entertaining people and creating something that they can relate to. Music should cater to everyone for enjoyment and entertainment, ” says Smilo Crystal.

Kali “Area Codes”

Rising Atlanta, GA rap star Kali is back with her first single of the year, “Area Codes” with production from YG! Beats and Tate Kobang. In “Area Codes” Kali gives fans a glimpse into her roster of guys in different area codes. Originally teased at the end of January, the TikTok sound currently has over 10K+ creates and the original Twitter teaser has over 1.5M+ views. This song is something fun for the girls and the perfect anthem for the summer. This single serves as the official follow-up to her last single of 2022, “Bout U.”

KARMACODA “Dare (E39 Mixshow)”

KARMACODA, the extravagant band, has released a dance remix of their song ‘Dare,’ produced by American artist E39. The remix made its debut on Electronic Groove through Sola Musa Music. The original version of the song is included in their most recent album, titled ‘Lessons In Time,’ which was released in October 2022. KARMACODA’s music has previously been remixed by renowned artists such as Extrawelt, Sailor & I, Lycoriscoris, KRONO, and Birds Of The West. These remixes received support from various publications and platforms including Dancing Astronaut, Magnetic Mag, Stereofox, HMWL, EDM Identity, FAZE Magazine, and Decoded Mag. Both KARMACODA’s original music and remixes have been featured on NPR Music.

Groovy Jo “Logo”

Lyrical maestro, performing renegade, and fast-rising music powerhouse Groovy Jo has revealed her next single off her highly anticipated sophomore solo project, Pressure, is the Afropop-tinged single, “Logo”. “Logo” sees wordsmith Groovy Jo change her tune from her now-esteemed and highly associated grittiness and sexually-liberated persona. “Logo” encompasses being crazy in love! This club banger is all about having that intense love for someone that in more ways than one can seem a bit insane. This type of love wants you to be right next to your partner at all times just to show the world that his logo is ‘taken’ and not available. “Logo was kind of effortless as it came from an emotional part of me; I thought I was falling in love with it and it came so naturally” Groovy Jo opens up.

Somadina & Kitty Amor “I Saw An Angel’”

‘I Saw An Angel’ is the first major release from Kitty Amor, showcasing her impeccable production skills. The song was originally penned by Somadina for her recent EP, “Heart of the Heavenly Undeniable” and has now been reworked with Kitty Amor into an Afro-House track for the dance floor. Bringing together their disparate and unique sounds, with Somadina’s haunting vocals and Kitty’s inimitable ability to channel energy through music, the track is already making waves across the international club scene from Fabric to Hï. Both women share Nigerian heritage and are equally passionate about supporting and elevating the eclectic sounds of Africa on the global stage. Somadina and Kitty are two shining examples of African artists not conforming to the current expectation of Afrobeats, both working across genres and not allowing any specific sound to define them.

IzangoMa “Ngo Ma”

IzangoMa, a 15-piece experimental collective hailing from Pretoria, South Africa, released their debut album ‘Ngo Ma’ via Gilles Peterson’s Brownswood Recordings label (Kokoroko, Doom Cannon and Sons of Kemet’s Tom Skinner). Although IzangoMa’s debut may only be reaching us now, the avant-garde collective’s roots stretch back to the meeting of core members Sibusile Xaba (vox/keys) and Ashley Kgabo (synths/snare drum/drum machine) in 2016. It was a galvanizing connection that allowed Xaba to begin cultivating a different side to his virtuosic talent, one at cardinal opposites with the familiar folk sound the largesse knew him for. 

Yaweh “Lagos City”

The Cape Town-based Nigerian rapper and producer born in Benin City, Nigeria Yaweh makes music with a
combination of Trap Soul, Rap, and Drill influenced by West African rhythms which he incorporates into his
music. His single “Lagos City” is a fusion of UK drill music and Afro beat melodies from the Rapper in this song he raps about the toughness of the street of “ LASGIDI ” AKA “ Lagos City “and how you have to be resilient to make it on the streets, he talks about the everyday life of the common man in “Lagos City “ and how you have to hustle for daily bread. Yaweh hopes this song inspires young hustlers to keep pushing and always be on their grinds.

Choplife Soundsystem “Chop Life, Vol. 1: Mzansi Chronicles”

Music superstar, business visionary, and international nomad Mr Eazi invites listeners to join him in South Africa on Chop Life, Vol. 1: Mzansi Chronicles (Choplife Limited/emPawa Africa), the debut release from his new pan-African music group, Choplife Soundsystem. The Pan-African dance music act’s first album is a 14-track dive into South Africa’s exploding Aamapiano sound that has become one of the world’s most thrilling and buzzed-about new music genres. Recorded between Cape Town and Johannesburg, guests on the project include South African music stars Ami Faku, Anatii, Nkosazana Daughter, Focalistic, Mellow & Sleazy, Major League DJz, Aymos, Mo-T, Moonchild Sanelly and a deep slate of emerging artists and producers. “Mzansi Chronicles is an ode to the amapiano sound that has been the soundtrack to my parties and me going to clubs,” Mr Eazi says. “It’s me working with some of my favourite artists and capturing my interpretation of elements I love from the scene.”

King Mok ft Loki “Haibo”

Talented Hip-Hop artist King Mok from Pretoria, South Africa, joined forces with the acclaimed hip-hop artist Loki to create a track called “Haibo,” which was released in May. “Haibo” serves as a fusion of the authentic Kasi and Hood vibes, representing an international Hip-Hop sound. This remarkable piece of artistry showcases profound lyrical depth and allows both emcees to demonstrate their exceptional songwriting skills. With its infectious chorus, this song is set to make a significant impact in the world of Hip-Hop.

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THE END!

This is a list and a half! Let us know which releases are your favorites!